APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) is not just for vehicle tracking, but rather for tactical situational awareness.
APRS was originally developed by Bob Bruninga WB4APR and is used to transmit real-time information such as messages, bulletins, announcements and the locations of any stations or objects via amateur packet radio protocols. Real-time reporting of station position for mobiles is facilitated using the Global Positioning System. APRS is capable of transmitting a wide variety of data including weather reports, short text messages, radio direction finding bearings, telemetry data, and storm forecasts. These reports can be combined with a computer and mapping software to show the transmitted data superimposed on a variety of map displays.
- Bob WB4APR's website Bob developed APRS and is regarded as 'The Father of APRS'.
- Recommendations for setting up APRS equipment
- Guide to SSID usage
- How to set objects etc for local area
- Software
- Hardware
- Infrastructure
- Links
- Mailing lists
- How to calculate Maidenhead Squares
- q-Construct (iGates)
- PHG Calculator Don't forget the /
- Ideas to consider which may or may not be applicable
- What is CQSrvr and how to use it
View a live APRS map of -
- Auckland
- Hamilton-Rotorua-Tauranga
- Gisborne
- Palmerston North
- Wellington-Masterton-Otaki
- Nelson
- Blenheim
- Canterbury
- Timaru
- Dunedin
- Invercargill
APRS Specifications
- APRS Specification 1.0.1 August 29, 2000
- APRS Spec Addendum 1.1 July 2004
- APRS Spec Addendum 1.2
- Of interest also is the APRS Wiki