A few weeks back, on our first APRS show Kenneth Finnegan (W6KWF) helped explain the APRS Protocol. Since that time, we’ve asked for and received a number of listener questions. In this episode of the Ham Radio 360 Podcast we delve into those questions to further understand this ‘thing’ called APRS! Listen Link Here Show Notes and Links Here (4:00) Paths? What do they mean, and What do I use? 2. (28:00) My APRS won’t show on aprs.fi when using my 5w HT? Why won’t my APRS messaging work? RF Gate, I-Gate or both? 3rd Party Traffic Questions. SMSGTE Is APRS used on other bands? 30m Robust Packet Why does APRS only use the 144.390 frequency? 3. (49:00) How do I digipeat through the ISS? Can I use APRS to monitor my off-grid cabin conditions? What is the Next Generation of APRS-can it be like ADS-B? How is APRS developed? Is it developed? What is the architecture of APRS-IS? What are the uses of APRS that aren’t GPS tracking? Why do all APRS websites suck? Where’s the documentation? Faraday RF, is it operational with APRS? 4. (1:13:00) APRS Etiquette, am I doing it right? Whats up with the 200+ symbols for things on the map? What is the Local Freq Initiative? Does it work? Object Beacons for the Local Freq Initiative? 5. (1:31:00) K4CDN-5 Digipeater/I-Gate. When to set-up an I-Gate/Digipeater? Hardware recommendations? How the K4CDN-5 digi changed APRS Thanks for listening! 73, Cale/K4CDN
Lot of fun with aprs. Good way to pic out the mobile stations on 2m transmitting their freq that they are monitoring in your area. I live near 2 big highways and a lot of aprs stations pass by and I call out for them and it works.
Got APRS working for the first time this past Saturday, very interesting. Definitely plan on digging in more!
? Why would I want the world to see where my vehicle is, and at what speed I am traveling? Might be useful in a walkathon or bicycle race for a charity event though.
I have no problem using EZPass and License plate cameras, I do not want to use APRS and let the world know where I am in real time, or where I was last week.
You can check out my video on APRS on YouTube, as I mentioned this exact comment. APRS was not designed to be a vehicle tracking system. There is a lot more you can do from it. For instance, SMS messaging to radios, or to a cell phone, emails, weather reports, etc.
I use APRS mostly for messaging, SMS, and email when I don't have a cell signal. But being able to show my kids where I am in the woods on a hike. it's a good thing.
