[aprssig] "Superdigi" experiment at MB7UBN

[Rick Green]

On Sun, 15 Mar 2009, Chris Moulding wrote:

> I'm currently running an experiment to test a "superdigi" option using 
> the MB7UBN igate. The superdigi option digipeats WIDE1-1 as normal but 
> also digipeats any other valid APRS packet and re-transmits it as a 
> WIDE2-1 packet to allow it to be digipeated once more by another 
> digipeater.

Somehow, I cringe at the thought of a digipeater modifying the path of an 
incoming packet, especially in the direction of extending it, even one 
more hop.  Not only will it increase channel congestion, but it also hides 
obsolete or mis-configured TNCs, removing the incentive for an operator to 
learn current best practices.

DANGER: You're on a slippery slope here.

That said, I'm of the opinion that APRS messaging as currently implemented 
is a horribly inefficient protocol, and I would welcome a digi option that 
will simply refuse to retransmit any message packet that has already been 
digi'd ONCE, no matter what path the originator is requesting.

-- 
Rick Green, N8BJX

"Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little
temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."
                                   -Benjamin Franklin

"As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our
safety and our ideals."
                                -President Barack Obama 20 Jan 2009