AnyTone AT-D-878UV DMR Handheld
AnyTone D-878UV Opening
When it comes to hand held DMR amateur radio, you’ve got a lot to choose from. In this review we’ll take a look at the AnyTone D-878UV.
DMR or Digital Mobile Radio is one of three popular modes of digital communications used by ham radio operators. Since it was originally a business related protocol that means that there are lots of manufacturers making DMR radios. Most of them can be used by hams in the ham bands.
This is likely why DMR is such a popular digital mode. There are lots of radios to choose from. They come in a wide variety of price points, and there are tens of thousands of users worldwide. I’m assuming that if you’re looking for information on this radio, you already understand the basics of DMR. If not, please take a look at my DMR programming video on the Gadget Talk channel on YouTube.
As I said earlier, unlike the other two digital modes, DMR is supported by several mostly Chinese radio manufacturers. You can find basic DMR radios between $60 and $90 dollars US, another group of models at about $160 dollars and a couple like this AnyTone D-878UV handheld at about $200 dollars.
D-878UV Features
There are a couple of things that set these radios and price points apart. One is build quality. More expensive radios are generally a bit more rugged. Another thing is memories. More expensive radios have huge memory banks which is important for DMR. The D-878UV has enough memories to capture the current DMR user base. This means that your radio’s display will show who’s calling and and who you’re talking to.
There is also a huge number of memories to set as either analog channels as you would with an FM analog radio or with talk groups for DMR use.
But radio memories is just the start. The D-878UV can be set to broadcast an APRS signal that when paired with the radio’s GPS capability, will allow others to know where you are. For example, if you like to take an ATV out in the woods or hike, a spouse or other family member can follow along and know where you are in case of emergency.
The GPS will also display your position helping you to keep from getting lost. GPS also allows you to program a roaming function that allows you to seamlessly switch between repeaters with the same talk group as you trave
Bridgecom Systems D-878 add-ons
I got this D-878UV from Bridgecom Systems. They have a couple of what I’d call value-added features to their radios. First is what they call Bridgescom University. When you buy from them, they give you access to a whole library of short targeted videos to help you program the various functions of your radio. The fact is, that this is a complicated device and having expert demos of most features is a huge timesaver. They also offer the CPS or customer programming software as a free download and the radio includes the programming cable to connect to your Windows computer.
For those who don’t want to mess with the programming chores, they also offer a plug and play version with DMR users, talk groups and other data pre-loaded on the device – for an additional fee.
There are a couple of versions of the D-878UV you can choose from. For example, you can choose whether you want a Bluetooth version or not. Bridgecom also packages the radio with a hotspot and other accessories. They also seem to have some kind of giveaway contest going nearly all the time.
Be aware, they communicate frequently via email.
I mainly use my radio to connect to the DMR networks via my hotspot. I often keep my D878 UV on in the background and listen in on my favorite talk groups and join in the conversation when the spirit moves me.
With thousands of talk groups on a huge variety of topics and locations, it easy to find a group of hams discussing something interesting.
Since this hand held radio transmits in the UHF and VHF bands, that means a Technician class operator can legally use this radio. Technicians can enjoy conversations with other hams from all over the world.
All in all, the AT D-878UV is a bit on the pricey side but comes with the full suite of DMR capabilities built into a sturdy form factor. Another down side to this radio is that it’s a fairly complicated device with the associated learning curve.
There is a fairly active Facebook group dedicated to the 878. Many of the posts are asking for help on one thing or another which goes to my point about the learning curve.
I’ve had this radio a while and there have been several firmware upgrades. The good news is that bugs get fixed and features are sometimes updated. The bad news is that you’re frequently updating the firmware with those associated inconvieniences.
So, if you’re familiar with DMR and have some experience with advanced radios, this model should be near the top of your list. On the other hand, if you’re a new ham with little experience, you might be better served with a less expensive DMR radio. With one of those you can gain some experience and then decide whether the advanced features of the 878 are worth it to you.
Lower Cost Alternatives
Buy two way radios.com and Radioddity.com both have less expensive DMR radios that would make good starter radios.
As I mentioned, I got my D-878UV from Bridgecom Systems. They’ve developed a good reputation for service and you can find them on Facebook in addition to their web site.
