The DMR Tech Net team discuss APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System), Part One

Posted on August 5, 2024

We’re on Brandmeister talk group 31266, the Michigan Nets channel, for the DMR Tech Net on Monday, July 29th from 7:30pm ET – 8:25pm ET.  We end the show early to give you time to QSY to the Michigan One DMR Net that follows us at 8:30pm on BrandMeister talk group 3126.

Join us Monday night as the DMR Tech Net team discuss APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) on your DMR equipment.  We’ll delve into what it is, how does it work, why use it, where you can use it, and the icons you can use.  We’d love to have you join in with your comments and questions. 

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APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) is a digital communication protocol used for sharing real-time information via amateur radio. Developed by Bob Bruninga, WB4APR, APRS is primarily used for tracking the position of mobile stations, such as vehicles, and reporting other relevant data, like weather conditions or messages, over a radio network.

Key features of APRS include:

  1. Position Reporting: APRS is widely used for tracking the real-time position of moving objects, such as cars, boats, and even high-altitude balloons. GPS data is transmitted over the radio network and can be displayed on maps.
  2. Messaging: APRS supports text messaging between users, similar to SMS, but transmitted over radio frequencies.
  3. Weather Reporting: APRS stations can be equipped with weather sensors to report local weather conditions in real-time.
  4. Data Sharing: APRS can be used to share various types of data, including telemetry from remote sensors.
  5. Emergency Communication: In disaster scenarios, APRS can provide a reliable means of communication when other systems are down.

APRS operates on specific frequencies allocated for amateur radio use and relies on digipeaters (digital repeaters) to extend the range of communication. The information can also be integrated with the internet, allowing for global data sharing and tracking through websites like aprs.fi.

APRS is primarily used by amateur radio operators (hams) for a variety of purposes. Here are some key groups and individuals who use APRS:

Amateur Radio Operators: Enthusiasts who use APRS for tracking their vehicles, sending messages, and sharing data like weather reports. It’s popular in the ham radio community for its versatility and ease of use.

Emergency Services and Public Safety: APRS is used by some emergency services and public safety organizations for real-time tracking of vehicles and personnel during disaster response and large public events. It provides an independent communication network that can function even when other systems are down.

Search and Rescue Teams: These teams use APRS to track the positions of search teams in the field, coordinate movements, and ensure safety.

Event Coordinators: Organizers of marathons, bike races, and other large events use APRS to monitor the location of participants and support vehicles.

Weather Enthusiasts: Individuals and groups who collect and share weather data use APRS to transmit local weather conditions from remote or mobile weather stations.

Hikers and Outdoor Adventurers: APRS is used by hikers, climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts to share their locations and communicate in areas without cell service.High-Altitude Balloon Enthusiasts: People who launch high-altitude balloons use APRS to track the balloons’ positions and gather data during their flights.

APRS’s flexibility and reliability make it a valuable tool for a wide range of applications beyond just amateur radio.

Here’s a simplified diagram illustrating how APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) works on Digital Mobile Radio (DMR):

Diagram: APRS on Digital Mobile Radio (DMR)

Description:

  1. GPS Module:
    • Provides location data (latitude, longitude, altitude).
    • Connected to the DMR radio either internally or externally.
  2. DMR Radio:
    • Receives GPS coordinates and encodes them into APRS data packets.
    • Transmits APRS data packets over DMR frequencies.
  3. DMR Repeater/Network:
    • Receives APRS packets from the DMR radio.
    • Routes the packets through the DMR network infrastructure.
  4. APRS Network Gateway (iGate):
    • Receives APRS packets from the DMR network.
    • Converts DMR APRS data into APRS-IS format for the internet.
    • May also relay data to other APRS networks.
  5. APRS-IS (Internet System):
    • Global network that aggregates APRS data from various sources.
    • Provides real-time tracking and data visualization on platforms like aprs.fi.

How It Works:

  1. Data Collection:
    • The GPS module collects location data and sends it to the DMR radio.
  2. Data Encoding:
    • The DMR radio encodes the GPS data into APRS packets and broadcasts them over the designated APRS talk group.
  3. Network Transmission:
    • DMR repeaters and network infrastructure route the APRS packets to an APRS network gateway (iGate).
  4. Data Conversion and Relay:
    • The iGate converts the APRS packets into APRS-IS format and relays them to the global APRS network.
  5. Global Tracking and Visualization:
    • APRS-IS aggregates the data and makes it available for real-time tracking and visualization on various APRS web services.

This diagram helps illustrate the flow of APRS data from a GPS-equipped DMR radio to global APRS networks, enabling real-time tracking and communication.

How to use APRS on Digital Mobile Radio (DMR)

Using APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) on Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) involves several key steps to configure your equipment and integrate with APRS networks. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to use APRS on DMR:

  1. Prepare Your Equipment
  • DMR Radio: Ensure your DMR radio supports APRS functionality.
  • Programming Cable: Required for connecting your radio to your computer.
  • Computer with CPS Software: The Customer Programming Software specific to your DMR radio.
  • GPS Module: If your DMR radio doesn’t have built-in GPS, you will need an external GPS receiver.
  1. Install Required Software and Drivers
  • Download CPS Software: Obtain the CPS software from your radio manufacturer’s website.
  • Install CPS Software: Follow the instructions to install it on your computer.
  • Install USB Drivers: If needed, install drivers for your programming cable.
  1. Connect Your Radio to the Computer
  1. Connect Programming Cable: Attach the programming cable to the radio and your computer.
  2. Power On the Radio: Ensure the radio is turned on.
  1. Configure APRS Settings in CPS
  2. Set Up GPS (If Applicable)
  • Enable GPS: In CPS, navigate to the GPS settings section and enable GPS.
  • Configure GPS Interval: Set the interval at which GPS data should be sent (e.g., every 1-5 minutes).
  • GPS Data Format: Choose the appropriate GPS data format (e.g., NMEA).
  1. Configure APRS Parameters
  • APRS Talk Group: Set the APRS talk group used by your network. Common talk groups include TG 5057 or TG 310999.
  • APRS Slot: Choose the time slot for APRS (often Slot 2).
  • APRS TX Interval: Set how frequently the APRS beacon should be transmitted.
  • APRS Text: Customize the text included in your APRS packets (e.g., your callsign and status).
  1. Program APRS Channel
  1. Create APRS Channel: Add a new channel specifically for APRS.
  2. Set Frequency: Configure the frequency for APRS (e.g., 144.390 MHz for North America).
  3. Color Code: Set the color code for the channel.
  4. Time Slot: Assign the time slot (e.g., Slot 2).
  5. Contact: Set the contact for the APRS talk group.
  1. Write Settings to the Radio
  1. Write Configuration: Use the CPS software to write the new settings to your DMR radio.
  1. Test and Monitor APRS Functionality
  1. GPS Lock: Ensure your GPS module (if used) has a clear view of the sky to acquire a GPS lock.
  2. Transmit Beacon: Manually transmit an APRS beacon to verify configuration.
  3. Monitor APRS Activity: Use services like aprs.fi to check if your APRS packets are being received and displayed correctly.
  1. Utilize APRS Features
  • Tracking: Use APRS for real-time tracking of your position and status.
  • Messaging: Send and receive APRS messages through your DMR radio.
  • Event Coordination: Leverage APRS for coordinating public events or emergencies.
  1. Join and Engage with DMR Networks
  • Network Membership: Join DMR networks that support APRS, such as BrandMeister or other regional networks.
  • Community Engagement: Participate in forums and groups to share experiences and get support.
  1. Regular Maintenance
  • Update Firmware: Keep your DMR radio firmware up to date for the latest features and improvements.
  • Check Configuration: Periodically review and adjust your APRS settings as needed.

Example Setup for Anytone 878

  1. Open CPS Software: Launch CPS and read the radio configuration.
  2. Configure GPS Settings:
    • Go to Optional Settings -> GPS.
    • Enable GPS and set the data send interval.
  3. Set APRS Settings:
    • Navigate to Optional Settings -> APRS.
    • Set the APRS talk group, slot, and text.
  4. Create APRS Channel:
    • Go to Channel -> Channel Information.
    • Set the frequency, color code, and time slot for APRS.
  5. Write Settings: Click “Write” to upload the settings to your radio.

By following these steps, you can effectively use APRS on your DMR radio, enhancing your communication capabilities and integrating with the APRS network for tracking and messaging.

How to follow APRS using the website https://aprs.fi

APRS.fi is a web-based service that allows users to track APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) activity in real-time. It provides maps, data visualizations, and other tools for monitoring APRS stations, objects, and messages. Here’s how to use APRS.fi:

Step-by-Step Guide to Using APRS.fi

  1. Access the Website
  • Open your web browser and go to aprs.fi.
  1. Search for a Station or Object
  • Search Bar: At the top of the page, there is a search bar. Enter the callsign of the station, object, or the specific term you are looking for (e.g., a callsign, object name, or location).
  • Press Enter: Hit Enter or click the search icon to perform the search.
  1. View Real-Time Maps
  • Map Interface: The homepage features a real-time map showing APRS activity.
  • Navigation Tools: Use the zoom in/out buttons or your mouse to navigate the map.
  • Filters: Use the filters to customize the map view (e.g., stations, weather reports, objects, etc.).
  1. Interact with Map Icons
  • Click on Icons: Click on any icon on the map to view detailed information about that station or object.
  • Details Window: A pop-up window will display information such as callsign, position, status, and recent activity.
  1. Track Specific Stations or Objects
  • Live Tracking: Click on a moving object (like a vehicle) to track its movement in real-time.
  • History: View the historical track of a station or object by selecting the “Track” option in the details window.
  1. Use the Layers and Options
  • Layers Menu: Access the layers menu to enable or disable various types of data (e.g., weather, AIS (marine traffic), and other layers).
  • Options: Customize the map’s appearance and data display options through the settings menu.
  1. Access Detailed Reports
  • Station Information: Click on a station icon to view detailed reports, including messages, telemetry data, and weather reports.
  • Message Log: View the message log to see APRS messages sent and received by the station.
  1. Explore Additional Features
  • Routes: Use the “Routes” feature to plan and visualize routes for mobile stations.
  • Weather Reports: View weather reports from APRS weather stations.
  • iGate Information: Check information about iGates (Internet Gateways) in your area.
  1. Create and Manage an Account (Optional)
  • Sign Up: Create an account to save preferences, create custom maps, and access additional features.
  • Login: If you already have an account, log in to access your saved settings and preferences.

Example Use Cases

Tracking a Mobile Station:

  1. Enter the callsign of the mobile station in the search bar.
  2. Click on the station icon on the map to view its current location and recent track.
  3. Enable the tracking feature to monitor the station’s movement in real-time.

Monitoring Weather Data:

  1. Enable the weather layer from the layers menu.
  2. Click on weather station icons to view detailed weather reports, including temperature, humidity, wind speed, and more.

Viewing Message Logs:

  1. Click on a station icon to open the details window.
  2. Navigate to the message log section to view messages sent and received by the station.

Tips for Using APRS.fi

  • Stay Updated: Regularly check APRS.fi for updates and new features.
  • Mobile Use: Access APRS.fi on your mobile device for tracking and monitoring on the go.
  • Community Engagement: Join online forums and communities to share tips and experiences with other APRS users.

APRS.fi is a powerful tool for amateur radio operators and enthusiasts, providing comprehensive real-time tracking and data visualization capabilities.

What are the best tips to utilize APRS on Digital Mobile Radio?

Utilizing APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) on Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) offers unique advantages and requires specific settings to ensure optimal performance. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of APRS on DMR:

  1. Understand the Basics of APRS on DMR
  • Digital APRS Gateway: DMR networks often have a dedicated digital APRS gateway that translates DMR signals into APRS-IS (Internet System) packets.
  • Talk Groups: DMR uses talk groups for communication. APRS typically uses a specific talk group (often TG 5057 or TG 310999 in the US) for APRS data.
  1. Configure Your DMR Radio for APRS
  • Set the Correct Talk Group: Ensure your DMR radio is set to the APRS talk group used by your network.
  • Program GPS Settings: If your DMR radio has built-in GPS, make sure it is enabled and configured correctly.
  • APRS Data Format: Set your DMR radio to use the correct APRS data format (e.g., NMEA, Kenwood, etc.).
  1. Use the Right Software and Tools
  • DMR Radio Programming Software: Use the appropriate CPS (Customer Programming Software) for your DMR radio to set up APRS.
  • APRS Software Integration: Use software like APRSDroid, BrandMeister Network, or other APRS applications that support DMR.
  1. Optimize Beacon Settings
  • Beacon Interval: Adjust the beacon interval based on your needs. Mobile stations might use shorter intervals (e.g., 1-5 minutes), while fixed stations can use longer intervals (e.g., 10-30 minutes).
  • SmartBeaconing: If supported, enable SmartBeaconing to adjust beacon intervals based on speed and direction changes.
  1. Ensure Proper GPS Functionality
  • GPS Lock: Ensure your GPS module has a clear view of the sky to maintain a strong GPS lock.
  • Initial Setup: When setting up your radio, give the GPS some time to lock onto satellites before starting APRS operations.
  1. Monitor and Adjust Power Settings
  • Power Levels: Use appropriate power levels for your transmissions. Lower power is often sufficient for local networks, while higher power may be needed for greater distances.
  • Battery Management: If operating in a mobile environment, manage your battery power to ensure long-term operation.
  1. Leverage APRS Gateways and Digipeaters
  • Use Gateways: Make use of APRS gateways that can relay your DMR APRS data to the APRS-IS network.
  • Local Digipeaters: Utilize local digipeaters to extend the range of your APRS transmissions.
  1. Stay Updated with Firmware and Software
  • Firmware Updates: Regularly check for and install firmware updates for your DMR radio to ensure you have the latest features and fixes.
  • Software Updates: Keep your APRS software and applications up to date.
  1. Integrate with Other APRS Devices
  • Multimode Operation: If you have other APRS-capable devices (e.g., VHF radios, trackers), consider integrating them into your network for enhanced functionality.
  • Cross-Band Linking: Explore cross-band linking between DMR and analog APRS networks to extend your reach.
  1. Join and Participate in DMR Networks
  • DMR Networks: Join DMR networks like BrandMeister, TGIF, or others that support APRS.
  • Community Participation: Engage with the DMR and APRS communities for support, tips, and collaboration.
  1. Use APRS for Specific Applications
  • Event Coordination: Use APRS on DMR for real-time tracking and coordination during public events.
  • Emergency Communication: Leverage APRS for reliable communication and tracking during emergencies and disasters.
  • Outdoor Activities: Use APRS to track and communicate during outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and boating.
  1. Regularly Monitor and Adjust Settings
  • Monitor APRS Traffic: Regularly monitor APRS traffic to ensure your settings are optimized and your station is performing well.
  • Adjust as Needed: Be ready to adjust your settings based on changing conditions or requirements.

By following these tips, you can effectively utilize APRS on Digital Mobile Radio, enhancing your tracking, communication, and overall amateur radio experience.

Why should you use APRS on digital mobile radio?

Using APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) on Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) offers several advantages, especially for amateur radio operators who want to combine the capabilities of digital communication with the versatile features of APRS. Here are the key reasons to use APRS on DMR:

  1. Enhanced Communication Capabilities
  • Text Messaging: DMR supports robust text messaging, which can be seamlessly integrated with APRS for efficient communication.
  • Data Transmission: Digital communication ensures more reliable and clear data transmission, reducing errors compared to analog systems.
  1. Improved Coverage and Range
  • Network Infrastructure: DMR networks often have extensive repeater coverage, providing better range and reliability for APRS data transmission.
  • Cross-Region Communication: With the ability to use internet-linked DMR networks like BrandMeister, you can send and receive APRS data over much larger areas, even globally.
  1. Efficient Use of Bandwidth
  • Channel Utilization: DMR uses Time-Division Multiple Access (TDMA) to split channels into two time slots, allowing simultaneous voice and data transmission on the same frequency.
  • Reduced Congestion: The digital nature of DMR helps in reducing congestion on frequencies commonly used for APRS.
  1. Better Integration with Modern Technology
  • GPS Integration: Many DMR radios come with built-in GPS modules, making it easier to transmit your location via APRS without additional hardware.
  • Smart Devices: DMR radios can integrate with smartphones and computers for advanced APRS functionalities, such as mapping and internet gateway access.
  1. Advanced Features
  • Encryption: While APRS data itself is typically not encrypted, DMR can provide encrypted voice communication for enhanced privacy.
  • Telemetry and Sensors: DMR can support additional telemetry data and sensors, providing more comprehensive data collection and reporting capabilities.
  1. Use in Public Service and Emergency Communications
  • Coordination: APRS on DMR can be used for real-time tracking and coordination during public service events like marathons, parades, and disaster response.
  • Situational Awareness: Emergency services can benefit from the precise location and status updates provided by APRS on a reliable DMR network.
  1. Ease of Use and Accessibility
  • Simplified Setup: With integrated GPS and APRS capabilities, modern DMR radios simplify the setup process compared to traditional analog APRS systems.
  • User Community: DMR networks and APRS users often have active communities that provide support, making it easier to learn and troubleshoot.
  1. Application in Various Scenarios
  • Vehicle Tracking: APRS on DMR is excellent for tracking vehicles, whether for personal use, fleet management, or emergency response.
  • Event Management: Use APRS to manage and coordinate large events by tracking personnel and assets in real time.
  • Outdoor Activities: Hikers, cyclists, and adventurers can use APRS on DMR to share their location and status, enhancing safety and coordination.
  1. Interoperability
  • Analog and Digital Integration: Many DMR radios are capable of operating in both digital and analog modes, allowing seamless integration with existing analog APRS networks.
  • Internet Gateways: Use internet gateways (iGates) to bridge APRS data from DMR networks to the wider APRS-IS (Internet System), enabling global data sharing.
  1. Future-Proof Technology
  • Ongoing Development: Digital communication technologies like DMR are continuously evolving, with regular updates and enhancements providing new features and improved performance.
  • Scalability: DMR networks are scalable, making them suitable for growing communities and expanding coverage areas.

By leveraging APRS on DMR, amateur radio operators and organizations can benefit from enhanced communication capabilities, improved coverage, and the integration of modern technology, making it a powerful tool for both routine operations and emergency situations.

APRS Symbol Search

https://aprs.tools/

If you have a comment or a DMR topic idea for the DMR Tech Net, please share it with any of us.  Send an email to: steve@dmrtechnet.net,  stan@dmrtechnet.net, tom@dmrtechnet.net, dana@dmrtechnet.net, or brad@dmrtechnet.net.

 

If you have a comment or a DMR topic idea for the DMR Tech Net, please share it with any of us.  Send an email to: steve@dmrtechnet.net,  stan@dmrtechnet.net, tom@dmrtechnet.net, dana@dmrtechnet.net, or brad@dmrtechnet.net.

Here are the Michigan DMR nets we know about.  Please join in & participate with them.
Saturday:

  • 7:00pm Arrow DMR Net on BrandMeister talk group 3126
  • 7:30pm DMR Trivia Net on TGIF talk group 31268

Sunday:

  • 6:30pm UP (Upper Peninsula) Net on BrandMeister talk group 31268

Monday:

  • 7:30pm DMR Tech Net on BrandMeister talk group 31266, the Michigan Nets channel
  • 8:30pm Michigan One DMR Net on BrandMeister talk group 3126

The DMR Tech Net team is branching out with a monthly show called DMR Tech Net TV on Zoom the third Tuesday of each month from 8pm-9pm ET.  The next broadcast will be this Tuesday, August 20.

  • We’re working to schedule Corey Dean N3FE to go over the BrandMeister USA network, how to get the most out of using it, and best practices.
  • We’re also working to reschedule Steve Miller KC1AWV and Ed Wilson N2XDD to discuss the M17 Network Project.
  • Stay tuned as we work on finding a time and date convenient for them.
  • If you missed previous DMR Tech Net TV broadcasts, you can watch them on our YouTube channel:
    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq4TAnA-_yE7kdcuaKzw8rQ
  • If you have a topic or issue you would like to discuss, let us know.

Join the DMR Tech Net team on Telegram.  Just search for “DMR Tech Net.”  To download, go to: https://web.telegram.org and/or https://desktop.telegram.org/

Join the DMR Tech Net team on Discord:  To join the DMR Tech Net team, click this link: https://discord.gg/EV82GNuCaS .  To download Discord, go to https://discord.com

The DMR Tech Net team is helping Dustin N8RMA with NCS duties on the Michigan One DMR net, heard of BrandMeister talk group 3126 on Monday nights.  If you would like to help as a Net Control Station operator, send an email to dana@dmrtechnet.net as we need NCS help every month through the end of 2024.

Here’s the upcoming list of upcoming NCS’:

  • Aug 5                   Steve KC8WXM
  • Aug 12                Dustin N8RMA

https://www.michiganonedmr.net/

Here is an Excel spreadsheet list of talk groups on BrandMeister, TGIF, FreeDMR, YSF, D-Star Reflectors, D-Star Repeaters, M17, and Michigan talk groups on BM & TGIF that you can download.

DMR Different Networks Talk Groups updated 6-2-2024

If you want to donate to BrandMeister to help them run their DMR network, Corey Dean N3FE shared the following links:

3102 and 3104 donations https://www.nfoservers.com/donate.pl?force_recipient=1&recipient=n3fe%40repeater.net

3103 donations https://www.nfoservers.com/donate.pl?force_recipient=1&recipient=w7xm%40w7xm.com

Robert Bretzman K4WZV of the TGIF network mentioned this if you want to donate to their network:

The servers that run the TGIF Network draw money from a coffer fund. We pay for much of it out of our own pockets, so we very much appreciate any donations. If you wish to donate, you may do so by clicking the donation link: https://www.paypal.com/donate/

https://tgif.network/faq.php

If you want to donate to RadioID.net, Glen Bizeau VE9GLN said you can subscribe to his website for additional features: https://radioid.net/account/membership.

You can also purchase RadioID.net merchandise at https://store.radioid.net/.

Garrett Down KD6KPC of Repeaterbook.com shared this if you want to donate to his website:

To run a website like Repeaterbook.com, revenue is needed to keep it active on the web. There are bills to be paid, hosting companies to be paid, SSL certificates to be purchased, and other expenses that go along with the research and development of the data. The costs add up.

Repeaterbook has committed to keeping access to its data completely free. Since we don’t charge for the data or access to the site, we decided to incorporate ads into the site. The ads generate revenue that has been sufficient to pay the bills (most months). With the advent of ad-blocking technology, we began to see ad revenue slip. We get it. Many people don’t want to see ads and our stats indicate that up to 30% of our site visitors are using an ad blocker. Some say the performance on the site has even suffered waiting for ads to load. And come are concerned about Internet tracking through the ads (yes, Google does it).

We think we have found a solution to meet in the middle.

You can now subscribe to Repeaterbook and obtain a membership that will silence the ads on Repeaterbook. This form of obtaining revenue while quieting ads is used on qrz.com.

So now we have two option to fit your preference:

  1. Enjoy Repeaterbook completely free, while enduring the ads that appear.
  2. Sign up for a Repeaterbook subscription and silence the ads.

To take advantage of this offer, you must be a registered user in good standing.  Look at our Subscription Plans:

https://www.repeaterbook.com/index.php/en-us/ad-free

Finally, join and become a member of your local amateur radio club.  They can use your dues to help defray the costs of running the club and repeater.  And you’ll be a member of like-minded people who can help you with amateur radio and equipment.

Check out (and share our website) to learn more about Digital Mobile Radio!

https://dmrtechnet.net/

 

 

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