OpenTracker USB User’s Manual
1
1.
Introduction
The OpenTracker USB was designed as a low-cost entry-level APRS tracker, but
it includes features previously found only on significantly more expensive
models.
The OpenTracker USB includes almost all of the features of the higher-end
Tracker2, with the exception of the digipeater and Garmin protocol functions.
Firmware updates and enhancements are published frequently, so check our
website at
http://www.argentdata.com/support
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.
Major Features
APRS Tracker
- The OpenTracker USB is first and foremost a full-featured APRS
tracker. It works with GPS receivers using the industry-standard NMEA format
($GPRMC, $GPGGA, and $GPGLL sentences). In addition to transmitting its
own position, it can also decode incoming positions and plot them as waypoints
on the screen of a GPS receiver, selecting appropriate symbols and setting
comment text and other waypoint details if supported by the receiver.
KISS Mode
- The KISS protocol defines an interface between a TNC and its host,
typically a PC. This mode allows the tracker to be used with PC-based APRS
programs like Xastir, WinAPRS, and UI-View32. It can also be used with non-
APRS applications, subject to the limitations of the tracker’s transmit and receive
buffers.
Weather Station
– The OpenTracker USB can be connected to several models of
weather station, including the Peet Bros. Ultimeter 2000 series, Dallas/AAG 1-
Wire Weather Station, Davis VantagePro 2, and LaCrosse WS-2310 wireless
weather station, to provide remote weather telemetry.
Command Console
– While the OpenTracker USB comes with a Windows-based
configuration program, it can also be configured, tuned, and upgraded through a
traditional console interface with command syntax similar to that of the classic
TNC2 and its clones. Keyboard-to-keyboard QSOs are supported through a
‘converse’ mode as well as APRS messaging commands.
