[FARC] APRS Software Info

[Kirk Talbott]

Roger Joe, I think with a system as comprehensive as APRS is, and as long as it has been around, it's a shame that there can't be a nice NEW, user friendly, self-installing, easy configuring, APRS sofware package integrated with maps written for Windows.  It is time to get APRS software out of the lab and into production or just get rid of it.  APRS LINUX?  APRSDOS?  Any UNIX out there?  What about some CP/M?  Dual booting operating systems just to run APRS?  

In fact, APRS software and other Ham messaging programs are becoming so Internet intensive why don't Hams just do away with designing and using software and start using Internet Explorer and Internet mail for Ham ecomm use.  I mean if Winlink 2000 has to depend on the Internet, Echolink has to depend on the Internet, APRS depends on the Internet, WHY NOT JUST USE THE INTERNET AND EMAIL for ecomm and be done with it.  If the Internet is down then it's all down whether we're using all Internet or Packet and Internet.  

"Gripe, gripe, gripe the kids are marching...."

73
KB3ONM
Kirk
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Joseph M. Durnal<mailto:joseph.durnal at gmail.com> 
  To: Frederick, Maryland ARC<mailto:farc at mailman.qth.net> 
  Sent: Thursday, April 30, 2009 8:05 PM
  Subject: Re: [FARC] APRS Software Info


  That is the big problem I have with all APRS software, most are made
  to use online maps, but I'd like to use it offline :).

  I have the xastir client that runs on linux configured for the hike
  across maryland, but the maps I have are not as good as the online
  maps.

  On Thu, Apr 30, 2009 at 4:28 PM, Kirk Talbott <kirktal7237 at msn.com<mailto:kirktal7237 at msn.com>> wrote:
  > FYI, I found a neat program for an APRS home station and that is AGW Tracker. Works with AGWPE and will not work with a TNC. Requires a soundcard interface of some sort, I use a West Mountain RigBlaster Plus.
  >
  > For mapping the program can use individual map files or use the Google Earth or Yahoo Maps websites and both work well with it. It can also use Microsoft Virtual Earth or Map Point, but I haven't tried either one. I do not know if it can use Delorme Street Atlas or Precision Mapping Streets and Traveler, but with Google Earth or Yahoo Maps web sites you wouldn't need it anyway. The program comes with ONE map included and that is a standard map of the United States; an outline map with no detail except for state boundaries.
  >
  > AGW Tracker is shareware and has a free trial for 30 days after which you would have to purchase it to keep using it. Cost is $49.00. AGWPE is hamware and thus free.
  >
  > Does it work as well or better than UI-View and other APRS software? Who knows, time will tell. I've only been using AGW Tracker for 2 days and have only used UI-View in the past with limited success. I can definitively tell you this, the installation and setup of AGW Tracker and AGWPE is easy enough to justify not using UI-View regardless of any advantages it may have.
  >
  > Summary:
  >
  > AGWPE soundcard TNC software, free download.
  > AGWTerminal Packet terminal program for doing 1200 baud soundcard Packet, free download.
  > AGWTracker APRS program, free 30-day trial and $49.00 to purchase.
  >
  > I have tested all 3 on Windows XP.
  > Additional mapping software not required you can use Google Earth or Yahoo Maps web sites.
  > Soundcard interface required.
  > High-speed, permanent connection Internet strongly suggested.
  >
  > These 3 programs give you APRS and 1200 baud Packet capability. Add Outpost software (free download) to the mix and you have 1200 baud Packet BBS messaging in an E-mail client format.
  >
  > 73
  > KB3ONM
  > Kirk
  >
  >
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