Use Policy Statement

Amp

Our main aim is to supply a stable, fuss-free, DMR server access that is based more-or-less on the original DMR-MARC concept. It does NOT therefore have 'reflectors', DVMINI/Mega access or any of the other non-mobile applications associated with it, as DSTAR caters very well for these already.

Our TG list will be as follows:

TG1 Worldwide, TG2 Europe, TG13 Worldwide English, TG113 UA Worldwide English, TG123 UA Worldwide English, TG119 UA Worldwide, TG129 UA Worldwide, TG235 UK Wide, TG80-83 UA UK Wide.

All the above are on Slot 1 and all are defined Calling Channels except the UA TG's which will be introduced as soon as available.

Currently locally we have TG9 Slot 1 and TG9 Slot 2 with the usual Roaming groups, NE/NW/Scotland* also on Slot 2. *As required

Blacklisting

We have taken the sensible decision, as we see it, to create a blacklisting system, so far unique in the DMR world as far as we know but essential following the despicable operating we have seen in the past by some UK users (abusers) of our fine mobile communication mode, and this will no longer be tolerated.

DMR Blacklisting is a very useful tool of extreme last resort, developed by the Cluster for use when all other avenues of polite guidance and mediation have failed or have been exhausted.

Its use would be confined to only two instances:

1) A blatant breach of Radio Amateur licencing regulations on the repeaters for which we are individually responsible in which case Ofcom/RSGB should be also automatically involved. This would possibly alleviate having to initially close down the affected repeater in the event of user licencing breaches.

2) Where any operator behaviour is seriously detrimental to the guidelines laid out by all DMR network providers currently DMR-MARC and Brandmeister. DMR users promoting, supporting and/or encouraging such bad behaviour of course would be included under the same heading.

Before any such blacklist can be imposed, other than for user licencing breaches, the consent of at least two repeater owners must be sought along with the approval of the network admin.

However, the network admins reserve the ultimate right to remove or add a user to the blacklist at any point.

Blacklisted users must be constantly monitored by the owners of the affected repeater and can be repealed within a reasonable time-constraint in the event of assumed regained conformity.

Network provider (DMR-MARC and Brandmeister) rules are carefully constructed so as to enable the fair use of all the facilities of the connected repeaters to all prospective users. DMR is designed for all not just a select few. We have many TG's and other facilities available to us but only 2 Times Slots, so we must take all steps necessary to enable as many free repeaters and Time Slots as possible.

A badly or insufficiently programmed radio without correct User Access Talk Groups to be able to QSY from the Calling Talk Groups is NOT an excuse, and such operators must leave the Calling Talk Groups to those who are able to QSY. Use of as few repeaters as possible is essential in EVERY conversation on DMR whichever network provider they are using.

Please note that blacklisting does NOT prevent the 'offender' from operating their own local repeater but he/she will be unable to use the Northern DMR Cluster to reach other repeaters. The user ID database is checked and updated on a regular basis 24/7 and anyone attempting to use the network with an ID not shown on the database will be automatically blacklisted without any need for any admin intervention, monitors will be show ID's as a 'Bad RadioID'.

Following the new requirements to prove correct identification when applying for an ID number means that any persistent use of another person's identification number during routine conversations without the correct call signs being verbally given will be reported to the official ID regulatory body and of course Ofcom/RSGB.

Finally on the subject of blacklisting, it is perfectly acceptable for someone to temporarily use another person's ID in the event of testing (say after re-programming a radio), providing as always they give their own call sign verbally each and every time they transmit to prevent assumed misrepresentation of another user's licence. Most people who program will have this issue at some point and the key is again the correct use of a verbally given call sign. If the abuser persists in utilising someone else's ID with their permission then that ID will also become blacklisted also.

There are no more 'rules' and any network system changes will be done with the approval of the majority of repeater owners and the network admin who will have the final say. We hope to create a stable, consistent DMR network that involves as few, if any, future code-plug changes. This should mean that everyone should be able to access DMR TG's for their intended use, and not for the sole use of a minority of self-important bullies as a personal network.

These are our conditions for use of the network, if you do not agree, then please do not prevent or interrupt our network's service to more respectful users.