If you don't already have a copy of APRS, the first thing you'll need to do is decide which version you want to run, then download it. Most of these programs are shareware software.Each version of APRS is fully functional. If you decide you like it, then look up the registration information and send in your shareware fee to the respective author. APRSdos is $29, MacAPRS is $50,  WinAPRS is $60,APRS+SA is $49, UI Veiw is about $15 and Xastir is free. I'm not sure of the other shareware fees at this time.
Each version of APRS has a basic map set that includes worldwide, continental USA, and regional maps. These go down to some detail, but to get better detail you'll need to download maps for the version of APRS you are operating.
      One of the things you will need are maps a link to maps is provided on the links page.
     Following the release of the Windows and Macintosh versions of APRS the authors began looking at other map programs that could be used with APRS. The first that was compatible was the Delorme Street Atlas map set, using a special version of APRS called APRS+SA. Next came the interface for WinAPRS to work with Precision Maps, and then some topographic maps and satellite photos. The Precision Maps with WinAPRS produces the best quality of map available for use with APRS at this time. The Precision Maps CD is available from Chicago Maps for $29, and includes maps from all over the USA. UI Veiw also uses Street Atlas and is more user friendly.

OK, so you've got your APRS program of choice and your maps database and they are properly installed on your computer.

SETTING UP THE EQUIPMENT
Next you'll need to interface the TNC  and radio with your computer. If you're an old timer with packet communications, you already have your gear installed. If not, you'll need the following equipment:

For MacAPRS: A Mac Classic II with extra RAM will work, but ideally the program works with a PowerMac and at least 24MB of RAM. One serial port is needed to connect to the TNC.
For WinAPRS: Can be used with Win3.1, but works ideally with Win95/98, especially if you want to use the Precision Maps CD. CD required for the latter, and loads of RAM is helpful.
For APRSdos: a 286 or 386 will work, but it'll be slow. A better choice is a 486 or Pentium. Even an old black and white monitor will work, with some minor mods.
For PalmAPRS: Only the Palm OS III will work, or a Palm that has been upgraded with the OS III.
For Xastir: a 386SX will will work, but it'll be slow running X-windows. A better choice is a Pentium or better. Any Unix install that has generic X-windows should work fine. Note that Xastir is distributed as source code, so you'll need to compile and install it before using it.

You'll also need a Terminal Node Controller, or TNC, and appropriate cable. The two most common choices are the Kantronics KPC-3 (for VHF) or PacComm HandiPacket and PicoPacket models. TNC's start at about $130 and go up, depending on what's included inside.

Finally, you'll need a radio to transmit on the APRS frequency of 144.39 MHz.  A national brand mobile rig, such as Icom, Kenwood, Yaesu, or Alinco, and power supply will deliver 50 watts output typically. You'll also need a cable to connect the radio and TNC. These can be purchased or home-brewed.

If you've just purchased a new TNC, it will require basic programming with your callsign, etc. first. You may want to set the TNC-Computer baud rate to 4800. 4800 is a good speed, and is also easy to remember since most GPS's connect to the TNC or computer at 4800. Whatever baud rate you set, remember it, because you'll need to enter that data when starting APRS.

OK, so you've got the APRS program loaded and configured on your computer, and your TNC has been programmed and the radio and antenna are hooked up. Perhaps you've already tried the TNC and radio using a terminal program, so you know it is working well.

Next, start the APRS program. For APRSdos you will see a series of questions asking for your callsign, TNC type, baud rate, etc. In Mac and Windows APRS you make the settings from a menu. In either case, once the settings have been entered you should see the TNC tx light activate and hopefully the radio will go to tx as well. If you have entered an outgoing path for your signals, perhaps WIDE3-3 for a fixed station, and are within radio range of the nearest APRS WIDE digipeater, you should see the radio rx light and S meter activate, and the TNC rx light activate. On your computer screen you should see the activity of your station, plus also begin receiving other stations and those should plot on your map.

To go into the fine details of moving around on the map and bringing up new maps is beyond the purpose of this page. Take the time to experiment and try each of the different menu items.

As mentioned previously, if you like APRS and want to keep it, you should send in your shareware fee to the program author. You will get back a validation number that, when entered, will allow you to save your settings, and avoid having to re-enter your basic information each time you start the program. Xastir requires no fee.

APRS is best learned with someone nearby who has been using the program for awhile. There is a learning curve, and while there are many help files, the help from a friend nearby is still the best way to get on the air quickly.

NOW THE HOME STATION IS UP, WHAT'S NEXT?
Typically the next station a new person wants to add to their APRS collection is a tracker of some sort. A mobile tracker consists of a Global Positioning System (GPS) for providing up-to-date location info, a TNC to process the information and set transmit rates, and a radio to send the signal out to the system.

There are many combinations of trackers, even some that allow you to connect a portable computer for a mobile APRS station. The important things to remember are that your GPS needs to be set to output NMEA data from the data port, and the TNC needs configuring to accept the data, and have other settings adjusted to do something with the data once it's received.

Please see the Baton Rouge INFO Page for specific TNC setup information.

You should look through some of the webpage links for more information or contact Anthony Summers, KB5YHI.