APRS Messaging from PC

[cruiserlarry]

Thanks - It would be nice if that explanation came up on the site when you go to get "verified"

[OLLIE]

Thanks - It would be nice if that explanation came up on the site when you go to get "verified"

You mean where I copied and pasted it from....

[BlueFJ]

So is my FT-8800R APRS compatible? If so, how do I send the message? Do I need any special equipment?

[cruiserlarry]

I think Hector or Ollie might have to answer this, but I'll try ....Your FT8800 should be APRS "compatible", but you will need extra equipment. The radio needs a data-output port; you would need to connect it to some sort of TNC (terminal node controller. If you want to be able to transmit position information, you'll need to hook a GPS NMEA output to the terminal node controller, too. Then, to send messages, you'll need a laptop to run APRS software that will provide map locations of the other stations, and a keyboard to write the messages.

...or you could trade it in for a Kenwood TM-D710A and be ready to go out of the box....

[BlueFJ]

Ok, so you can't use the site without initially having your laptop hooked up to your radio. Guess I'll just say phukit then.

[hmfigueroa]

Craig.

Yes this will need any combination of equipment that will allow you to compose and read an APRS message.

Larry

I am sorry for the Confusion Larry, but the information related to the verification process is sent in the emails sent to the address specified in the registration process with openaprs.

[DaveK]

So is my FT-8800R APRS compatible? If so, how do I send the message? Do I need any special equipment?

Craig:

I run APRS with my 8800 and it is capable of packet operation. You do not need a hardware TNC. Instead of a TNC, I am running a Signal Link USB Soundcard device. This allows my PC to continue to use it's internal soundcard without any interference from the APRS program. If you wanted, you could opt to use your computer's soundcard and avoid buying the Signal Link (about $100.00).

In terms of wiring, if you use the Signal Link, it goes something like this: A cable from the data output jack on the 8800 goes to the Signal link - a cable from the signal link goes to the PC - a cable from your GPS also goes to the PC. With the correct software, it is all tied together, again without a hardware TNC.

For you, with just an 8800, you will need additional equipment such as a PC, if you want to run APRS in your vehicle. There are other options, such as the Tiny Track (very reasonably priced) and others, but the bottom line is that you will need to buy something. One last option is to buy a radio that has all of the stuff you will need built in, like the Kenwood 710 (about $500.00). I also understand that Alinco makes a radio that will do the same thing and if memory serves, it is cheaper.

But as you say, it may just be easier just to bag the whole idea.

[BlueFJ]

But as you say, it may just be easier just to bag the whole idea.

Yep, it's just not that important to me...

[OLLIE]

If you are an amateur radio operator but do not have an APRS set up or are not able to send messages via your current APRS rig and want to be verified to send messages via OpenAPRS let me know via PM. I have figured out how to get you verified.

[DaveK]

Something's going on with OpenAPRS. It's been down all day , 7/31/09.