Programming a DMR radio is often the steepest part of the learning curve. Fortunately, the AT-D878UVII Plus is extremely well supported by the amateur radio community, and several high-quality starter codeplugs exist that can dramatically reduce setup time.
The following options are widely used, actively maintained, and appropriate starting points depending on your operating style.
1. Regional / Statewide Starter Codeplugs (Best for Beginners)
Recommended for: New DMR users, local repeater operation
Most beginners should start with a state- or region-specific codeplug. These typically include:
- Local VHF/UHF analog repeaters
- Nearby DMR repeaters (BrandMeister, DMR-MARC, etc.)
- Core talkgroups (Local, Statewide, TAC, Nationwide)
- Sensible zone organization
Why start here
- Minimal changes required
- Lower risk of misconfiguration
- Easier to understand channel and zone layout
What to customize
- Your callsign and DMR ID
- Home simplex frequencies
- Optional scan lists
This approach gets you on the air quickly while preserving a clean learning path.
2. BrandMeister “Core” Codeplugs (Best for DMR Enthusiasts)
Recommended for: Operators active on DMR talkgroups and networks
BrandMeister-oriented starter codeplugs usually include:
- Dynamic talkgroups (TG9, TACs, Worldwide, Regional)
- Prebuilt zones by region or purpose
- Roaming-friendly repeater organization
- Digital contacts preloaded (or easily imported)
Why choose this
- Optimized for modern DMR network use
- Clean separation of time slots and talkgroups
- Scales well as your DMR usage grows
Best practice
Start with the “core” talkgroups and add specialty or event talkgroups later. Overloading zones early is a common mistake.
3. EMCOMM / Public Service Codeplugs (Best for Emergency Use)
Recommended for: ARES®, RACES®, event communications
Emergency-focused codeplugs emphasize clarity, reliability, and speed:
- Dedicated Analog Emergency Zone
- Separate Digital EMCOMM Zone
- APRS channels preconfigured
- Priority scan lists
- Minimal talkgroup clutter
Why this matters
During an activation, you should not be scrolling through dozens of talkgroups or zones. EMCOMM codeplugs are intentionally conservative and predictable.
Strong recommendation
Maintain a separate EMCOMM codeplug rather than merging it into a daily-use configuration.
4. Community-Maintained Master Codeplugs (Advanced Users Only)
Recommended for: Experienced users who travel frequently
These “everything included” codeplugs can contain:
- Hundreds of repeaters
- Nationwide and international zones
- Extensive talkgroup libraries
Caution
While impressive, these can overwhelm new users and slow down operation. If you use one, treat it as a base template and prune aggressively.
Starter Codeplug Best Practices
Regardless of which starter codeplug you choose:
Always Do This First
- Enter your DMR ID and callsign
- Set Time Slot usage correctly for local repeaters
- Confirm Color Code and RX/TX frequencies
- Verify APRS path and beacon settings
Keep It Simple
- Limit zones to what you actually use
- Avoid loading thousands of talkgroups “just in case”
- Name zones clearly (e.g.,
LOCAL-DMR,EMCOMM-ANALOG)
Version Control Matters
Keep backups:
878_daily_v1.rdt878_emcomm_v1.rdt878_travel_v1.rdt
This makes rollback painless if something breaks.
Recommended Beginner Path
Day 1
- Load a regional starter codeplug
- Program analog repeaters
- Verify local DMR access
Week 1
- Add BrandMeister dynamic talkgroups
- Enable APRS transmit/receive
Month 1
- Create a dedicated EMCOMM codeplug
- Fine-tune zones and scan lists
Bottom Line
The AT-D878UVII Plus becomes dramatically more enjoyable once a clean, purpose-built codeplug is in place. Starting with a proven community template saves time, reduces frustration, and lets you focus on operating instead of troubleshooting.