1. Using your HotSpot for D-RATS

1.1. 1. Introduction

So you have a functioning DVAR-HotSpot setup and you want to use it for D-RATS activities. Since version 2.38 DVAR-HotSpot has included the ability to send and receive data over it's RF port. Please note that this function is available via the RF port only. DVAR-HotSpot will not forward data to an Internet connected reflector.

For this article we have assumed you have a working hotspot setup and also have the latest copy of D-RATS installed. Both these packages must be installed either on the same machine or on machines able to talk to each other over a TCP/IP link of some kind (usually an Ethernet LAN). In a nutshell, D-RATS forwards and receives data from DVAR-HotSpot over a network socket. A setup of this sort can allow multiple connections from multiple D-RATS instances or sessions littered around the network.

Installations of this sort can significantly cut down the cost and increase the viability of using D-STAR for data purposes around an EOC or Red Cross shelter.

1.2. 2. Configuration

To use D-RATS with DVAR-HotSpot you need to configure both applications to allow for the swapping of data. Lets deal with DVAR-HotSpot first.

Make sure that the DVAR-HotSpot application is not currently connected to the reflector netowork by hitting the Disconnect button in the top right corner of the window. 



The Connection Status should now read Disconnected as in the picture below.



Now click Edit > Slow Speed Callsigns and populate the fields as required. Note that you can send your outgoing data through your local repeater and so you can set up the callsign fields just as you would a regular D-STAR radio. In the example below we are set up for simplex operation. Once done click Save



Next click Edit > Settings and populate populate the DPRS settings as below. If you are already using DPRS (external D-STAR GPS to APRS application) these fields will already be populated. You will be able to run both D-RATS and DPRS from the same DVAR-HotSpot setup. When you are finished click Save. You may also return the to reflector network if you wish by clicking the Connect button.



OK, now it time to move on to D-RATS itself.

From your D-RATS main window click File > Preferences > Radio the click the +Add button. Populate the fields as per the example below. If you are running D-RATS and DVAR-HotSpot on the same machine you should enter 127.0.0.1 in the Host Address field. The password field should be left blank. Finally click +Add then Save.



D-RATS will take quite a bit of time to test the new port but it will eventually return you to the main window. To check that your new port is there and working correctly click Chat and then look for the new port in the drop down menu about half way down the screen. In our example below I selected one of my QST's to be broadcast via the HotSpot.