📍 Automated Packet Reporting System (APRS)

APRS is a digital, real-time communications system designed to share tactical information and short messages across the amateur radio network. It’s most commonly used to plot the location of moving objects—like vehicles, weather spotters, or parade floats—on an internet map using GPS data.

But APRS does more than just tracking:

• 📩 Short messaging

• 🌦️ Weather station telemetry

• 📢 Announcements

• 🗺️ Displaying objects and events on a map

One of the most popular mapping tools is APRS.fi, which lets you view live data from stations around the world—including many right here in our area.

🚶 Getting Started Is Easy

You don’t need a license to receive APRS signals, but to transmit and make your own reports, you’ll need at least a Technician-class license. Here’s what you’ll need to get going:

• A basic Chinese HT (handheld transceiver) set to 144.39 MHz

• A linking cable or Bluetooth interface, depending on your radio

• A GPS-enabled cellphone with a headphone jack (sorry, newer Apple fans!)

• A free APRS app from the Play Store (Android recommended)

Whether you're tracking a parade route, supporting a public service event, or just experimenting with digital modes, APRS is a fun and functional way to stay connected.

Michael Martens (KB9VBR) has provided to YouTube viewers a great introduction to APRS below.

 Contents:

1. Brief History of APRS: 01:46

2. How APRS Works: 04:17

3. APRS Path Protocols: 06:00

4. APRS IGATES: 08:29

5. Using APRS: 09:13