[BARC-List] Packet/APRS in Metro Boston area?

[Scott Ehrlich]

I am gaining a bigger interest in data modes, concentrating for now on VHF
and UHF.   APRS seems to be a big interest with growing popularity.

What kinds of information flow through ARPS in our area?  Are there any
websites showing life info for our area, or all the possible types of data
which can be intercepted and shown?

I was originally thinking of putting together a serial cable for my Sony
NX70V Palm 5-based PDA (using PocketAPRS), getting a GPS receiver, maybe
putting my newly acquired Yaesu VX2R to use with this, and maybe even
getting a GPS/APRS TNC.  Then I sat back for a second, and as you may be
reading the listing, that's a LOT of stuff for portability.

Then I thought about a TNC with a built-in radio, and I discovered the
Kenwood TH-7A which reverses the idea.  But that radio ain't cheap, and
the display appears limited to what I've seen APRS capable of.  I'm also
largely interested in weather data.  And, if many handheld GPS units can
give me coordinates, why do I need another radio to do the same?
Plus, the TH-7A, while it has a TNC built-in, still needs a GPS for
location.

Which brings up my next question - does a GPS help provide data with
respect to my particular location (if I had a GPS in the setup)?
Otherwise, could I simply have APRS with no location awareness, and just
perform quiet data gathering?

Which then brings me to the data the TH-7A can offer vs a graphical
program utilizing the equipment listed in the first brainstorm?

Thanks for any help/insight for APRS utilization in the Metro Boston area.

I have collected several APRS web pages, but I'd like to get stories from
local users to see what path makes most sense (equipment vs budget).

Thanks.

Scott, WY1Z