APRS

Philips PRM-80 using Open Tracker

A cheap in vehicle APRS station was completed using a RS232 mouse type GPS receiver, PRM8010 and an Open Tracker interface.

PRM80 Cable

OpenTracker DB 15 Port FUNCTION

7 ----------------- 1 13.8V Switched. Run your TNC power off this

6 ----------------- 3 GND

1 ----------------- 4 Mic Audio.

3 ----------------- 8 PTT (active low input)

5 ---------------- 10 RX audio, fixed level, 550mVRMS, 470 ohm imp.

2 ---------------- 11 RX mute output - Active low,(COR).

13 Alarm / External alert Out. ^?

^?This can be wired to a latching relay to act as a kill switch or activate the hazard light etc, if the vehicle is stolen. Triggered by a selcall number nominated when programming the radio.

HAICOM HI-204III-DB9

NOTE: the PC cable is not suitable for connection to the interface therefore a 4 pin min-din to DB9 cable will need to be constructed. (Also the ?Strong magnet??isn?t!)

I use the OpenTracker interface but the TinyTrack is just as good.

These devices that act as a TNC (Translating the GPS NMEA ?sentences? into APRS packet protocol)

TinyTrack OpenTracker.

Alternatively

1. Google earth

Add a "Network Link" in google earth (right mouse click for menu)
Add in this URL for the new network link
http://db.aprsworld.net/datamart/googleEarth.php?call=vk4ute-9

2. FindU

http://www.findu.com/cgi-bin/find.cgi?vk4ute-9

3. http://www.wulfden.org/APRSQuery.shtml

4. http://www.aprsworld.net/

Still to do :

1. ~~Mount the radio and interface under the parcel shelf in the boot~~.Done

2. ~~Purchase and fit an On-glass VHF antenna for aesthetic reasons~~. Done (Thanks Andy)

3. Setup Smart beaconing to reduce unnecessary transmissions.

4. Reset radio and interface after cranking (Currently locking up)

Reference URLs:

http://www.tech-software.net/

http://www.radio-active.net.au/web/index2.html