APRS

 APRS in Amateur Radio

The Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS) is a system used in amateur radio to facilitate the digital transfer of data that has value in its transmission area.

APRS systems send digital data in real-time via amateur radio.

It combines local Radio Frequency and devices connected to the internet.

The data is mostly transmitted through one shared frequency that is to be repeated by digital repeaters over an area.

The data can then be combined with computer software to produce augmented results on a map to help in rescue operations or finding directions.

APRS systems are used mostly over the AX.25 protocols on the 2-meter amateur radio band frequencies.

A digital repeater then provides a medium for the flow of APRS data through the frequencies.

Gateway stations help link the on-radio APRS network to the Internet to create an Internet APRS system with a global reach. The internet gates (IGates) help give APRS systems access to a channel with high bandwidth and transparency on which to send data.

Uses of APRS

·         APRS is used to share positional data.

·         Used to share short messages.

·         Used to send bulletins to people within a certain range.

·         Used to share weather information, including forecasts.

History of APRS

The APRS system was designed and developed by Bob Bruninga, a United States engineer, in 1982. He designed the system to map the United States Navy's high-frequency reports on the position of objects.

In 1984, Bob Bruninga built a better version of his original APRS System, then named the Connectionless Emergency Traffic System (CETS).

As a result of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s involvement, the system was sent over to IBM. Its name was then changed to the Automatic Position Reporting System in the early 1990s.

With the growth in popularity and the use of the Global Positioning System (GPS), the name was changed to Automatic Packet Reporting System, which stands to date.

In 1997, APRS was reworked with the internet as its backbone.

Advantages of APRS

1.      It provides a universal connection for more people than voice networks can.

2.      The APRS system can be used over any radio that uses two-way communications systems.

3.      The system relays real-time digital information.

4.      Its internet connectivity allows for access from anywhere in the globe. This also allows it to gate to RF systems elsewhere.

APRS systems have grown to cover multiple fields other than the intended field of use. These new fields include;

Ø  APRS FireNet- This is an APRS system linked to the internet to help combat fires and earthquakes. This helps rescue personnel mitigate the effects of these destructive forces. The system also allows for the sharing of weather information.

Ø  PropNET- This system is used to study frequencies' propagation. It is used to monitor frequencies and note down the changes in propagation data.