User`s manual

Tracker3 User’s Manual 3
1. Introduction
The Tracker3 family includes the stand-alone OT3m model, the T3-135 internal
board for the Alinco DR-135T, the embeddable T3-Mini board, and the T3-301
with integrated 5-watt transceiver. All of these models share the same software
features, with minor differences. This manual covers all Tracker3 variations.
The Tracker3 is a packet radio interface focused on APRS™ applications,
including position reporting, messaging, and telemetry. It replaces the older
Tracker2 and features a much faster, 32-bit processor, USB support, more RAM,
and more room for expansion.
Firmware updates and enhancements are published frequently, so check the
website at http://www.argentdata.com to make sure you have the latest firmware
and documentation. The Wiki site at http://wiki.argentdata.com also has in-
depth technical information and user-contributed tips and tricks.
2. A Brief Overview of APRS
To understand the Tracker3 and how it can be used, it is important to first
understand exactly what APRS is.
APRS stands for Automatic Packet Reporting System. The name is a trademark
of its creator, Bob Bruninga, WB4APR. What the name refers to can be a subject
of considerable confusion to newcomers.
Primarily, APRS is a communications protocol. It defines how data (including
station and map object positions, weather information, radio direction finding
readings, text messages, and telemetry) can be communicated among packet
radio stations.
APRS can also refer to the network that carries this information. Throughout the
United States, Europe, and several other countries, a network of digital repeaters
(‘digipeaters’), usually on a common nationwide frequency, provides a transport
for APRS packets. Most APRS stations operate on one of these common
channels, but not all.
The APRS Internet System (APRS-IS) is an Internet-based adjunct to the radio
network. Internet gateways (IGates), often simply home PCs with an Internet