The question keeps popping up about Icom being the sole manufacturer
of DSTAR products.

DSTAR has Competition !

Granted others have chosen different paths, but why would YAESU dilute
their investment in WIRES with DSTAR? Why would ALINCO compete with
their own Digital System ?

Was it easier for Kenwood to test the waters with a re-labeled ICOM
ID800H and could their money for amateur product development be better
spent in other areas (like a world class HF radio)?

I have used the AOR ARD9800 thru an FM repeater - sounds great, but I
did not do mobile testing.

Who is left ?

YAESU
http://www.vxstd.com/en/wiresinfo-en/


WIRESTM (Wide-Coverage Internet Repeater Enhancement System) is a
comprehensive and easy-to-use system for linking repeaters and/or home
stations together, using Internet voice technology. Now you can talk
to old friends, or make new ones, around the world. . .using your
hand-held or mobile radio via a WIRES-equipped node to talk to other
Hams across the country or across an ocean.
This site contains information regarding the WIRESTM Internet linking
system from Vertex Standard, and we welcome you to the World of WIRESTM!

ALINCO
http://www.alinco.com/Products/DR-135/

Digital voice unit EJ-47U

AOR
http://www.aorusa.com/ard9800.html

DOES IT WORK IN OTHER MODES?
Yes! The ARD9800 can be used in AM or FM modes, however, FM mobile
operation could be prone to "picket fencing" which could result in the
loss of data.

KENWOOD
http://tinyurl.com/2pugm7

Not in the US, though...

Steve NU5D