As we gear up for the Tour de Blount and other public service events this year, it’s a great time to revisit one of our most valuable tools for situational awareness: APRS.

What is APRS?

APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) is a protocol that allows amateur radio operators to share real-time, location-based information over RF and the internet. It can display the positions of mobile stations (like SAG vehicles), fixed stations, and objects (such as aid stations or hazards) on a map. In addition to position tracking, APRS supports brief text messages, weather data, and more.

The real strength of APRS comes from participation: the more stations beaconing data, the more complete and actionable our shared picture becomes.

How We’ll Use APRS

For the Tour de Blount, we will use APRS to track the positions of SAG vehicles. Net Control will monitor these positions to coordinate vehicle movements, ensure thorough course coverage, and efficiently dispatch the closest SAG when support is requested. This situational visibility enhances safety and improves response times during the event.

Viewing APRS Data

Online Tools

If internet access is available, there are two excellent platforms for monitoring APRS activity:

- [aprs.fi](https://aprs.fi/): A straightforward and user-friendly interface for viewing APRS stations and their movements in real time.
- [CalTopo](https://caltopo.com/m/E18R7): While more complex than aprs.fi, CalTopo offers robust mapping features, including the ability to overlay APRS tracks through its “Live Tracks” feature. A public CalTopo map has been prepared specifically for Tour de Blount, which includes the course route and key waypoints.

Offline Tools

If you’re operating in an area with limited or no internet connectivity, desktop APRS software can be used with a hardware or software TNC (Terminal Node Controller). Recommended applications include:

- [YAAC](https://www.yaac.org/): A cross-platform APRS client.
- [PinPoint APRS](https://www.pinpointaprs.com/): A Windows-only APRS client with a user-friendly interface.

Software TNC options:

- [UZ7HO SoundModem](http://uz7.ho.ua/packetradio.htm): A solid TNC for Windows systems.
- [Direwolf](https://github.com/wb2osz/direwolf): A flexible, multi-platform TNC, albeit with a steeper learning curve.

Mobile Apps

If you’re using a smartphone or tablet in the field, several APRS apps are available that offer real-time tracking and messaging capabilities:

- [aprs.fi app](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/aprs-fi/id922155038) (iOS)
- [PocketPacket](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/pocketpacket/id336500866) (iOS)
- [APRSdroid](https://aprsdroid.org/) (Android)

To send and receive APRS data over RF (rather than relying solely on internet-based data), these mobile apps can be paired with TNC (Terminal Node Controller) devices and a compatible radio. Here are some popular options that work well in the field:

- [Mobilinkd TNC4](https://store.mobilinkd.com/collections/frontpage/products/mobilinkd-tnc4): A small, battery-powered Bluetooth TNC that pairs with most handheld radios and mobile devices.
- [BTECH UV-PRO](https://baofengtech.com/product/uv-pro/?srsltid=AfmBOorDf-pnfcQxx20iKla1X4HtlKwko6q9IA4V_ZDc8h2Z4ufLmhK7): A complete dual-band handheld radio with a built-in Bluetooth TNC—great for APRS tracking without extra hardware.
- [Kenwood TH-D75](https://www.kenwood.com/usa/com/amateur/th-d75a/): A high-end HT with built-in APRS support. For iOS users, APRS integration can be achieved via the [B.B. Link Adapter](https://islandmagic.co/products/bb-link-adapter), which enables Bluetooth APRS functionality with iPhones and iPads.

These combinations allow you to operate APRS over RF while taking advantage of your mobile device’s mapping and user interface—ideal for mobile operators and SAG vehicle teams during events like the Tour de Blount.

Mapping the Course

Having a base map that includes the Tour de Blount course and key locations is crucial for event operations. A pre-made GPX file with the full route and waypoints is available for download:

📍 https://ki4hdu.com/mesh/events/2025TourDeBlount/

Adding GPX Files in APRS Software

In PinPoint APRS (Windows):
- Import the GPX file via File → Import GPS File.
- Customize track and waypoint display under Tools → Options → Map.
- To clear GPX data, use Map → Clear Tracks and Waypoints (note: this removes all imported data).

In YAAC:
- Load the GPX via File → Load → Drawing.
- YAAC currently does not display waypoints, but you can view and modify tracks using View → Draw Toolbar.

Final Notes

Using APRS during events like Tour de Blount gives Net Control and field operators a powerful tool for coordination and safety. Whether you’re running a tracker, viewing stations on a map, or helping with deployment, getting familiar with these tools in advance will help ensure smooth and efficient operations.

Let’s make good use of APRS this year—your participation helps build a more informed and effective response team!