Packet Racket by Larry Gorman VE3LGN

In last months column I made reference to Automated Packet Reporting system (APRS), and its rising popularity as an alternate use of the VHF band. Due to its versatility, lower cost, and entry level requirements, the majority of of new hams begin and remain on 2 metre radio. While Industry Cananda has relaxed the rules somewhat, there still remain the 5 WPM code, higher cost of a HF radio, and usually more complex antenna system, all of which serve as barriers to the move "down" the bands. Packet and APRS offer a lateral expansion of ham radio activity and experimenting.

Until recently access to packet and APRS has required a computer, a separate TNC, a VHF radio and an array of connectors. Read on to see how "they" have done it again.

The following is a much edited version of an article in the current March/ April issue of The Canadian Amateur by Jeff Robbins VE3JTR.

Kenwood has now incorporated the TNC and APRS functions in its newly engineered D7 Dual Band Handheld and its D700 Dual Band Mobile. No computer or external TNC required! Just plug in an optional GPS receiver and you are on the air with APRS.

Let's not forget that these are dualband radios, so simultaneous voice operation on the unused band is also possible. It is important to remind everyone that hooking up a GPS is not necessary to enjoy APRS: only if you want to dynamically update your position information is a GPS necessary. You are free to manually enter your position and leave it static in the radio's memory. All other receiving and messaging functions will work just fine. In addition to reporting position information (Lat and Lon), these radios are able to transmit and receive a variety of station icons, speed and direction, messages, bulletins, and status text. They are also capable of receiving APRS format weather reports. Both have a built in computer connector for graphic display of position information using APRS software packages.

Circuitry that compares the Lat/Lon of the received station against its own Lat/Lon position currently in memory, presents you with the distance and bearing to the received station, the station's icon, and the Grid Square location. The bearing is shown as one of eight compass points. In the case of mobile stations, the speed and direction of the station is also available. By connecting your GPS, the radio will be continuously updated with your current location. These Kenwood dual band radios can also store up to16 bulletins and messages in memory. Also available is the PC connectivity cable and a CD containing an In-Depth Instruction Manual, the PC programming software, and an entertaining 22-minute television commercial in RealPlayer format. The movie demonstrates the radio's capabilities and its features. Bob Bruninga, WB4APR (The creator of APRS), makes a guest appearance in the movie as well! The manual includes information on APRS, and packet operation.

If you are really keen, and handy at writing software, there is also a listing of PC commands that you can use to remotely control the radio from a PC. There are some excellent resources on the web for D7/D700 owners. A great repository of Information on these two radios, including a page on setting up your GPS, is available at
www.radiohound.com   

If you are going to buy a used D7, check the serial number before you buy, as upgraded firmware is available. Serial numbers with 011 (zero-one- one) or higher will have the new firmware already installed.

From The Canadian Amateur
Some useful information from a recent call to Industry Canada. All calls must now be directed to the Ottawa office 1-888-780-3333 toll free. I was informed that there will be no charge for license reinstatements. Detailed information can be called up at their web site. http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/SSG/sf01709e.html

 Included here is an application form, available for downloading. RIC documents can also be downloaded here at no charge.

E-Mail can be directed through hotline.service@ic.gc.ca 

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Larry Gorman VE3LGN