Cape Wide Public Safety
Private Listening Network
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Hardware Needed

What you need depends on how you plan to listen. Most users only need a phone, tablet, or computer for the public live stream. Approved private-network users may need a DMR radio, hotspot, or gateway setup.

Quick answer

For the public website, use any modern browser. For private radio access, wait for approval first so you do not buy the wrong equipment.

For most website listeners

No special radio hardware required

Phone, tablet, or computer

Use Safari, Chrome, Edge, or Firefox to open the dashboard and press Listen Live. Audio may be delayed because it comes through Broadcastify.

Internet connection

Wi-Fi or cellular data is fine. If audio pauses on a phone, reopen the page or press Reconnect Audio.

Speaker or headphones

Make sure the device is not muted. iPhones may pause web audio when the browser goes into the background.

For approved private-network users

Confirm access before buying parts

DMR-capable radio

A compatible DMR radio may be used by approved users, depending on your assigned access method and talkgroup plan.

DMR Programmed contacts Approved users only

MMDVM hotspot or modem

A Pi-Star style hotspot, MMDVM hat, or compatible gateway can link a radio into the private network when configured correctly.

  • Raspberry Pi or hotspot appliance
  • MMDVM board/hat
  • MicroSD card with hotspot software

Reliable power and network

Stable power and network matter more than fancy hardware. Use a good power supply and Ethernet when possible.

  • Quality 5V power supply
  • Ethernet or strong Wi-Fi
  • Good ventilation

Optional equipment

Useful for better monitoring or feeding audio

Scanner or audio source

A scanner can be used as an audio source for monitoring or Broadcastify-style feeds. This is separate from private DMR access.

Audio cable or USB sound card

For feed audio, a clean audio interface helps prevent hum, distortion, or low-volume audio.

External antenna

A better antenna can improve local scanner reception, but coverage depends on location, terrain, and the system being monitored.

Recommended setup order

Do this before spending money
Start with the website Confirm the public live audio works on your phone or computer.
Request access if you need private-network details Submit the access form and wait for approval/instructions.
Confirm your access method Radio, hotspot, scanner feed, or web-only access may require different equipment.
Buy/configure hardware last This avoids buying a radio, hotspot, or cable that does not fit your setup.

This page is a general guide. Final requirements may change based on your approved access type, feed purpose, and location.