[aprssig] Mobile Off-Air Display

[Bob Burns W9BU]

Take a look at what Stephen Smith WA8LMF has done with the inexpensive Winbook Windows tablets:

 

http://www.wa8lmf.net/WinbookTablet/index.htm

 

These tablets can be purchased for $150 or less depending on the model. They run full Windows 8.1 and can therefore run any Windows APRS program such as UI-View, APRSISCE/32, or YAAC. They also have an internal sound card that can be used with a sound card packet engine. Or you can use the full-size USB port to connect to an RS-232 device through an adapter.

 

In looking at the Winbooks on MicroCenter’s web site, I do see a possible problem. MicroCenter is now only selling these in-store only. I was able to buy mine through their on-line store and have it shipped, but apparently that’s not an option now. They do have several stores around the country.

 

Bob…

 

 

From: aprssig [mailto:aprssig-bounces at tapr.org] On Behalf Of Charles Bland via aprssig
Sent: Sunday, August 09, 2015 8:25 PM
To: aprssig at tapr.org
Subject: [aprssig] Mobile Off-Air Display

 

I'd like to get the latest opinion from this group about putting together a simple mobile APRS display solution.

 

Our local club does a couple of bike events each year. We have an ad-hoc network to support our trackers over the course area. I have been turning my attention toward broader use of the info. For example, our rest stops now have displays, and we run a Public Info table so that we can make event participants aware of what we do and how we do it.

 

I am now turning my attention to our radio operators in the sag wagons. For insurance purposes, the bike club provides the cars and drivers. The radio op rides shotgun, using a Go-Box that has battery assist so that the cigarette lighter adapter isn't doing the heavy TX lifting and can be shared for other uses.

 

I'd like to have simple, non-transmitting display setup so that the operator can "look" around the course as he has need. I'm not sure where to start looking for commercial solutions, if there are any at all. I also have been wondering, given the abundance of R-PI hardware, if a R-PI and display would be enough to run something like YACC. A simple RX and antenna would be enough, and the package could be small enough to occupy little of the precious space in the vehicle and not pose a safety issue. Even nicer if it could be on the dash.

 

So, what do you folks know? How would you approach such a requirement?

 

Chuck

NA6BR

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