[aprssig] HF APRS igates on JS8

[Stephen H. Smith]

I have now successfully mated the FLdigi multi-digital-modes application with 
several APRS applications.

Recent versions of FLdigi actually have a built-in KISS-over-IP interface that 
allows external programs to use FLdigi as a sound-card modem, in a way similar 
to the "UZ7HO Soundmodem" or "DireWolf" do on conventional packet.  This allows 
APRS apps to operate over MFSK16, PSK63 or any other mode supported by FLdigi.

All one needs, in addition to FLdigi and an APRS application that supports KISS 
mode is a freeware tool "Com0Com".  Com0Com creates a pair of virtual com ports 
connected back-to-back (i.e. a virtual null modem cable).

A second tool included with Com0Com, "Com2TCP", connects to one end of the 
virtual null modem and converts the serial output to TCP/IP. You can pick your 
choice of IP address (including "localhost" meaning your own computer) and IP 
port #.

The combination of these two utilities in tandem, allow a KISS-over-serial 
output from any APRS app to link to the KISS-over-IP interface in FLdigi.
    The result is "normal" APRS that can link directly to the APRS-IS like 
standard packet APRS, via standard APRS client apps acting as "normal" igates. 
I.e. not via oddball expedients like the JS8call spotting network.
     APRS apps that natively support KISS-over-IP (rather than KISS-over-RS232) 
like YAAC and APRS-IS32 can use FLdigi's IP KISS port directly.

Last night, I successfully used a spare FT-891 and netbook to transmit to my 
existing 60M igate.  Given how fantastically effective APRS-over-PSK63 or 
MFSK16 was with the late lamented "APRS Messenger" app, I think this is worth 
trying.  Anyone interested in trying this on 60 meters?

_________________________________________________
Stephen H. Smith    wa8lmf (at) aol.com
Skype:        WA8LMF
EchoLink:  Node #  14400  [Think bottom of the 2-meter band]
Home Page:          http://wa8lmf.net

-----   NEW!    60-Meter APRS!   HF NVIS APRS Igate Now Operating  ------
    <http://wa8lmf.ddns.net:14447/>



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