A WIDE APRS node is a special animal. The location of the site is the most critical item. You need to work together with the other APRS users around your area to first evaluate the coverage area you need, and identify the "holes" within it. An APRS system is a network of relays and nodes properly placed to allow coverage of mobile trackers in an area. For special events and emergencies, we here in Milwaukee have portable "deployable relay sites" ready to go to fill in a hole as the need arises. A WIDE is a permanent site, in a good location. It should be located HIGH and CLEAR. The "NODES" link over great distances. The N9UUR-10 node runs a 50 Watt 2 meter radio, filter cavities, a commercial grade antenna, emergency backup power, and is high enough to hit Illinois and Michigan directly (simplex). A "WIDE" does not use the same TNC setup as a home "RELAY" system.
There is a need for more WIDE NODES in SE Wisconsin. We are currently working to link our way out to Madison WI., and North through Ozaukee County. If you have the interest, gear and LOCATION, please contact me or the SEWI APRS Group.
The new 8.x software ROM in the KPC 3 series TNC from Kantronics makes for very easy set up and operation of an APRS WIDE Node site.
Here is the KPC3 program I use on my NODE station.
I also run my node with a REMOTE call system in place. The N9UUR-10 node is 10 miles from my home, in the penthouse of a downtown Milwaukee building. With the REMOTE system, I can log into the TNC from home at anytime and perform any TNC function, or change any setting. A remote login system is available in both the Kantronics and PacComm TNC's, please read over the manuals about this feature.
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Dec. 5, 1998