I use a combination of an HT or mobile rig connected to a Mobilinkd for APRS messages.
If connected to an Android phone you can use APRSdroid plus a keyboard with macros like CanalRun to quickly exchange preconfigured messages.
The TNC can also be paired via Bluetooth to a PC or Raspberry Pi.
73 Fernando KF7R
On Wed, Aug 26, 2020, 1:45 PM Robert Bankston via AMSAT-BB < amsat-bb@amsat.org> wrote:
I was not aware of the TNC from Mobilinkd, so thanks for the tip.
Interesting that their newest version includes BT connectivity to a smartphone app - something that almost every op has handy when making "portable" sat QSOs. It's compatible with APRSdroid and they are working on adding iOS.
A prescribed format APRS message app, running on a smartphone, would be an interesting alternative to the raspberry pi route. The TNC's small form factor would make it more usable.
$120 is a reasonable solution for those who do not want to build one. For the more adventurous types, building one looks like only $20-$30 worth of parts.
NOTE: I own APRS capable HTs and Mobiles and have made APRS QSOs; however, I am exploring ways to make APRS messaging more accessible and more enjoyable for everyone. I think automating/symplifying the QSO process, with a low-cost add on to existing equipment, could do that.
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