APRS Discussion
The conversation started Steve White sharing his experiences and knowledge about APRS, his website, and APRS in more detail.
Steve started in the late 90s and revisiting it in 2022. He shared his experiences with APRS over DMR and the analog side of APRS. He highlighted the benefits of APRS, such as sending position reports, plotting oneself on a map, recording tracks, sending SMS messages, emailing, and receiving weather reports. He also mentioned the use of APRS for telemetry and weather stations. Steve shared his personal experience of using a solar-powered weather station at a remote property. He encouraged the use of APRS for various applications, including messaging, SMS, emails, text messages, and plotting oneself on a map.
APRS in Search and Rescue
Steve discussed the use of APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) in search and rescue operations, highlighting its ability to plot search teams on a map in real-time. He also mentioned the APRS Thursday net, a weekly event for checking equipment and ensuring messages are getting out. Steve explained that anyone can participate in APRS with a radio made in the last five years, and that coverage can be determined using an algorithm that plots stations heard in the last seven days. He also discussed the concept of “PHG” (Power, Height, Gain) in APRS, which calculates expected coverage based on transmit power, height, and antenna pattern.
APRS Site Building and Smartphone Apps
Steve White discussed various options for building an APRS site, including using a Raspberry Pi, a Kenwood D-708, and a Yaesu FT-2500. He emphasized that it doesn’t require a lot of capital ($50-$250) to build an APRS site. He also mentioned the availability of smartphone apps for APRS, such as APRSdroid and APRS.fi, and the importance of Facebook groups for support and information. He highlighted the lack of a centralized information repository for APRS and the need for a tool to make symbol selection easier.
APRS Troubleshooting and Monitoring Tools
Steve White discussed various tools and features for troubleshooting and monitoring APRS stations. He explained how to verify station operation, check packet quality, and analyze transmission history. Steve also introduced the concept of setting up a weather station and using the APRS Voyager for remote monitoring. He emphasized the importance of packet decoding for troubleshooting and provided a tool for decoding raw packets. Lastly, he mentioned the ability to monitor station health and performance through a user account.
APRS for Real-Time Data Tracking
Steve discussed the use of APRS for real-time data tracking and personalization of maps. He demonstrated how to check in, view profiles, and personalize the map. He also introduced new features such as map overlays, Maiden Head grid, and nighttime/daytime coverage maps. Steve mentioned the possibility of connecting Android apps and DigiPeater software to the IS network using a passcode generator. He also highlighted the resource page for the APRS community and the Golden Packet Group’s event. Lastly, he explained how to take snapshots of the map and track summits on the air.
APRS System Overview and Setup
Steve discussed the various components of the system, including the APRS protocol, the APRS network, and the different types of APRS devices. Steve also explained how to set up an APRS gateway and how to use the APRS.fi website to view APRS data. He also mentioned the possibility of using APRS for weather reporting and tracking. The attendees asked several questions, including about the use of APRS for Winlink and the process of setting up a weather station. Steve also shared his experiences with the system and offered to help anyone with questions or issues.
Weather Stations and Data Transmission
In the meeting, Steve White explained the functionality of weather stations and their connection to the Citizens Weather Observer Network (CWOP) and the Automatic Position Reporting System (APRS). He detailed how these stations can transmit various data, including weather and telemetry information, and how they can be connected to different networks. Steve also discussed the use of microcontrollers and sensors for data collection. Jeremiah added that the APRS message can be changed in the BrandMeister self-care page, not in the CPS.
APRS Applications in Amateur Radio
The DMR Tech Net team discussed the use of APRS in various contexts, including amateur radio and emergency response. Steve provided detailed information on APRS, including its functionality, potential applications, and how to set it up. The team also discussed the possibility of using APRS for tracking participants in marathons or other events. Jeremiah shared his experience with testing APRS and suggested its potential use in medical tents during marathons. The conversation ended with expressing their appreciation for Steve’s presentation and the potential applications of APRS.