David’s talk covered an introduction and demonstration of both APRS and EchoLink.
He explained APRS’s origin lay in Packet Radio. Its versatility was improved by the advent of affordable and compact GNSS or GPS receivers, which could be readily embedded within a VHF or UHF radio. This allows the radio to report its position to anyone tuning into it.
APRS can also sent text messages, weather information and other data.
In most cases, a network of DigiPeaters or iGates (internet gateways) are used, to extend the range of the radio, and present the data over the internet, so that anyone can track the position of a registered receiver.
David demonstrated how he used APRS to track his journey whilst on holiday in Italy and Switzerland, viewing the data on the APRS reporting web page www.aprs.fi
David then went on to introduce EchoLink as a novel extension to analogue FM repeaters. EchoLink connects the soundcard of a repeater’s computer to the internet, allowing 2 way simplex speech to be passed through the repeater using your mobile phone or PC. This means you don’t even need a radio to make contacts with amateurs anywhere in the world, so long as the distant user has an internet connection and the EchoLink app
David demonstrated this to great effect, by putting out a CQ on 2m via his home EchoLink node, and instantly received a reply from Phil, W9PMA/MM in Indiana, who was floating on a lilo in his swimming pool, using his mobile phone as a link to EchoLink. Take a look at W9PMA’s QRZ.com page and you will see the very pool he was floating in during ther contact.
Geoff, G4CEP also demonstrated the ease of making an EchoLink contact with his phone and called David via 2m with instant success..
Amazingly easy and a great means of making contacts if you are travelling or unable to erect an antenna at home!
David’s talk closed with a busy Q&A session – thank you David for a most interesting talk!
We ended the evening with a belated presentation by Paul G1GSN (L) to Brian, G8GHR (R), who deservedly received the prize for the best talk given to the Club during 2024 – very well done Brian!
