Weather Stations and APRS/CWOP

Many amateur radio operators integrate personal weather stations with APRS and CWOP—the Citizen Weather Observer Program—to share live weather data over RF and the internet. APRS weather reports are transmitted via packet radio to local iGates, which forward the data...

Playing with RF Propagation Maps

Ever wonder why your signal doesn’t always go where you think it will? Or why one repeater seems solid while another barely scratches through? That’s the mystery — and magic — of RF propagation. Tonight’s BARRA Tech Net dives into propagation prediction maps —...

APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System)

APRS, or Automatic Packet Reporting System, is a digital communication mode used by amateur radio operators to share real-time information such as position, weather, messages, and telemetry over VHF, UHF, and sometimes HF. Using packet radio protocols, APRS data can...

Why P25? A Look Beyond the Buzzwords

My journey into P25 technology started back in 2015, almost by accident. At the time, DMR was the hot new thing in the amateur radio world. Clubs were building out talk groups, hams were buying inexpensive handhelds by the dozen, and the excitement was undeniable. I...

Allstar vs. EchoLink

Both systems connect amateur radio stations over the internet, but they work a little differently. EchoLink is simple to set up, works directly from a computer or phone, and is great for quick contacts and casual use. AllStarLink is more flexible and powerful,...