To get started with D-STAR (Digital Smart Technologies for Amateur Radio), you can try these steps:
Register your callsign: You can register through a local D-STAR repeater using the repeater directory on dstarusers.org. You’ll need to create an account, fill out a form, and provide your callsign. Your callsign needs to be eight characters long.
Set up your transceiver: Make sure your transceiver is configured with the correct callsign values.
Select a gateway repeater: You can choose a gateway repeater from a list or find one on the internet.
Listen before transmitting: Before transmitting, you should listen for at least 10 seconds.
Take note of the display: After transmitting, pay attention to the information the local repeater sends to you.
Some other tips for D-STAR operators include:
Use simplex to communicate radio to radio
Use slow-speed digital voice and data, which are transported at 4800 bps
You can also watch videos on YouTube to learn more about D-STAR, including how it works and some basics.