[OZAPRS] hardware suggestions

[Scott Evans]

On Tue, 2016-02-16 at 16:16 +1030, Matthew Cook wrote:
> Liz,
> 
> A few of us here in VK5 have put together ammo boxes (x4) with the
> following for "Field Portable" Receive Only iGates;
> Raspberry Pi 2 model B
> TNC-Pi
> Sierra Wireless AirCard 320U (USB 3G)
> 2 x 7Ah Gelcells
> 5V at 2A PSU (inc low volt dropout)
> Radio wise we're all using surplus 2m HT's like the IC-2GA, IC-u2,
> IC-2AT hmm common Icom theme there...
> 
> For new radios I'd be looking for a FC-301/D since there is plenty of
> information about getting these to work (including a service manual)
> on the argent data website.  They will do 8W at 12V into a good antenna
> and actually draw less power than my favoured FM828, front end is a
> little naf when co-sited with other TX's but out in the country away
> from the muck they do well enough without gongs !
> 
> Antenna wise we've just screwed SO-239/MCB bases to the lids of the
> ammo boxes for both 2m and 3G.  Then just a couple of mobile whips. 
> These can sit out on the ground, or be placed at the bottom of a
> portable mast fed with RG213 and PL-259 connectors etc...
> 
> O/S wise it's just Aprx, Raspbian (latest), AX25 stack, i2ckiss etc. 
> By far the hardest part was the 3G modem, in some ways those 3G/4G
> Wingle's (3G over wifi modules) are far easier.   If you've got the
> $$$ then the Microtik RB411 series routers are excellent too.   The
> rPi WiFi module is really easy to use.
> 
> There isn't that much to be done in terms of linux config or
> compiling.  If you've any reasonable linux skills 3-4 hours tops
> (excluding 3G modelm =) )
> 
> As mentioned previously I've had good success with the rPi and AX25
> stack, I've had my temporary lash up (VK5ZM-5) on air for three years
> now and I've not had to reset it yet.  I know your experience has
> been somewhat different.
> 
> YMMV.
> 
> 73
> 
> Matthew
> VK5ZM
I was about to suggest a similar setup to this! so I just say that this
would be the most cost effective. 

-- 
Scott Evans <vk7hse at gmail.com>
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