Anyone using APRS?

[craig]

I've use the droid APRS app on my phone for fun too.

Just to be clear for those unfamiliar with Amateur Radio and APRS. The iPhone and Android apps only work when they have 3G network access on the cellular network. The regular version that uses the Amateur Radio is required if you are on the trail where there is no APRS network.

 

[Mash5]

What is the app called? I can't find it on the market. I wana play with it.:drool:

 

[craig]

APRSDroid - It's not in the MarketPlace yet because it's still in Beta. http://wiki.github.com/ge0rg/aprsdroid/

 

[HenryJ]

Literally less than five minutes to assemble and have it going!
The MicroTrak -RTG is awesome!

I have a switched power port for it behind the back seat.

Really cool. Works great. Easily swapped to any vehicle I use.

 

[craig]

That setup looks perfect for quickly slapping something on a vehicle you want to track. How'd I miss this before? It is limited to transmitting your location though, and doesn't allow integration with a computer or GPS to see others locations.

Here's a link to the product description: Byonics MicroTrak RTG (Ready To Go)

 

[HenryJ]

That setup looks perfect for quickly slapping something on a vehicle you want to track.

Exactly what I was after. The software solutions for vehicle to vehicle and easy to use mapping that works for APRS do not exist...yet. (JMO)
There are solutions out there, but none that are plug-n-play. Techno geeks that enjoy hacking can get it to work. I need simple , functional and affordable.

I have a little "duck" antenna I can toss on this and try it out on my motorcycle.
It will be fun to see how well that works.

I can plug it in to the laptop and configure a message to be sent, but then must reattach the GPS to send it. In a pinch it might be useful to send a small message, but not very convenient.

It is what it is. A very simple compact tracker. Just what I wanted.:ylsmoke:

 

[craig]

Exactly what I was after. The software solutions for vehicle to vehicle and easy to use mapping that works for APRS do not exist...yet. (JMO)
There are solutions out there, but none that are plug-n-play. Techno geeks that enjoy hacking can get it to work. I need simple , functional and affordable.

This is what I set out to fix with Overland Navigator's APRS solution. Combine Overland Navigator with a Kenwood D710a radio and it is super easy to setup. I guess it isn't technically plug and play since the RTG is pre-programmed for you at the factory, but it's pretty close. I need to make a video.

Craig

 

[1leg]

This is what I set out to fix with Overland Navigator's APRS solution. Combine Overland Navigator with a Kenwood D710a radio and it is super easy to setup. I guess it isn't technically plug and play since the RTG is pre-programmed for you at the factory, but it's pretty close. I need to make a video.

Craig

When will this version of the software be avilable? I have a D710 and netbook running XP, and would love this setup. :drool:

 

[craig]

When will this version of the software be avilable? I have a D710 and netbook running XP, and would love this setup. :drool:

Version 2.0.1, w/ APRS via NMEA, started shipping with new orders placed as of two days ago.

Over the next few days, existing customers will be contacted about the upgrade procedure, the website will be updated, a press release made, etc.

Craig

 

[1leg]

I will be placing an order soon, you need to place adds in some ham mags, and place signs up in HRO stores, HAMS will eat this up.

 

[craig]

Hope so! I know I'm having fun with it, so hopefully a few other Overlanders and HAMs will too.

Shoot, the whole reason I originally wanted to get my amateur license was so I could do APRS.

 

[alia176]

This link gives a decent info on the RTG unit:
http://www.vansairforce.com/community/showthread.php?t=55138

 

[Akecj7]

Craig,

Any update to the APRS w/ Overland Navigator? Do you have any videos or pictures of how to set the radio up? This makes purchasing another tracking software very appealing (already have Topo USA and Terrain Navigator). Thanks

 

[craig]

How to set it up with the D710a specifically?

The User Guide that comes with the software contains an appendix with step by step instructions for several APRS capable radios/trackers including:

• Kenwood D710a
• Argent Data Systems Tracker2 Model T2-301
• Argent Data Systems OpenTracker+.

I've also tested, but didn't documented, the Byonics TinyTracker 4. Ultimately, the radio/tracker specific tech support will have to come from the manufacturer, but I'll do my best to make instructions available for the various trackers as I or customers test and document them.

The User Guide for version 2.0.1 is available from the spatialminds.com Support Page (http://spatialminds.com/content/Support.htm). The rest of the website hasn't yet been updated to reflect the new features in version 2.0.1. I'll be adding additional information to the Overland Navigator product page, and I'll look into doing a video demonstrating the APRS capabilities including the basic setup. It is very easy with the Kenwood D710a.

Craig

 

[Akecj7]

My radio is a 710a. Thanks for the quick reply. I am downloading the user guide now.