luckyum The digital modes also couldn't be managed effectively. The commonly used digital modes couldn't prevent users from abusing DMR IDs or fabricating/using false call signs to cause disruption. The DMR server cluster wasn't designed for management, which is why I refer to it as "Cluster" instead of "Truniked."
AllStar is a comprehensive solution that provides a node list, node server, and gateway access. However, I believe it doesn't have NAT traversal functionality... I'm not sure about this. As for whether it discourages or allows digital or analog networking, the principle should be to prohibit it, but in practice, it only focuses on typical states.
The problem with using discarded simulators is that they are not versatile enough. After all, "discarded" means the models are unknown and require careful selection, and they also tend to be quite large in size.
Moving back a step, many simulation radio projects use the SA818 module, but its availability is much lower than that of the ADF7021 used in digital hotspots. A new one costs around 50 RMB, which is equivalent to the cost of a complete, disassembled MMDVM duplex hotspot.
Neither of these options is conducive to bulk production by workshops. Most ham buyers prefer to purchase finished products, so a workshop that doesn't produce ham effectively has no output.
Of course, doing it as a personal project is perfectly fine. As long as you find it enjoyable, there are no restrictions. If you want to set up a node, do so; if you want to assemble it using old equipment, go ahead. There's nothing stopping you.