Pico aprs v4 Lora 70 cm

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Picoaprs V4 Lora 70 cm The smaller aprs transceiver in the world becomes even better! With version 4, the small radio becomes of age! {

The 70 cm Lora Apr function allows you to reach long distances with a low exit power. The transceiver can be used not only as a tracker aprs and receiver of APS data, but also as RX-Rote Lora! Unlike the VHF version, the vocal radio function has been omitted. {

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The display has become larger and more colorful! With 240x240 pixels, the incoming aprs packages are displayed, such as position messages, aprs messages (similar to SMS) and state messages. For position messages, the distance and direction of the compass from the transmitter are also displayed. The latest stations listened to, including the distance and direction of the compass, and the messages received are stored and can be recovered via the menu. {

The GPS coordinates received through the integrated GPS receiver can be displayed and therefore the Picoaprs can also be used as a GPS tracker, for example for geocaching. If desired, the user's position can be permanently stored in the device, for example if it is not possible to determine the GPS position. The position stored permanently is used only to view the distance and direction of the compass of the stations received. A display display is also available. Speed ​​display units can be changed between km/h, mph and nodes. {

The operation is even simpler than the previous model thanks to the joystick buttons on the front. With the five buttons you can easily check the menu and make all the settings, even without a computer. Upon delivery, the unit is almost completely preconfigured. All you need to do is save the name and then you can start immediately. {

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The supplied rechargeable battery allows an output power of about 0.4 watts (26 dbm). The transmission power of the Lora version can be adjusted with increases of 1 DB of 16 dBM (about 40 Milliwatt) at 30 dBM. However, the actual output power is limited to about 26 DBM (0.4 watts) due to the battery voltage. {

The position data is sent compressions in MIC-E format to maintain the shortest possible frequency and save the battery. Of course, it is possible to decode and view both the packages received with MIC-E compression and the uncompressed Aprs packages.

With the lithium ion battery integrated and replaceable by 850 mAh, the unit can work up to 10 hours [1], depending on the configuration. The same battery as the predecessor V3 is used. The battery is loaded via a modern USB-C socket in the Picoaprs V4. The novelty is that the socket is located on the side. In this way the small handyman can be safely on the table while loaded. Of course, radio operation is also possible during recharging.

The Lora variant is cheaper than the VHF variant.

The receiver requires a significantly lower amount of energy.

Consequently, the operating time is significantly longer than the VHF variant with a comparable use.

The Picoaprs can also replace a wing (Pocsag). Unlike the Curgersone, the device also sends a reception confirmation. In this way the sender knows whether his message has come or not. Messages can be sent directly by the Picoaprs.

The "Follow" function can be useful, for example, when you ski with a partner. It is possible to press follows on the name of the partner and always see how far it is and in which direction the partner is. When you receive new position messages, the display is automatically updated. The function can also be used when you are on vacation with more people or when you travel to the same destination with more cars.

With dimensions of only 33 mm x 66 mm x 25 mm, Picoaprs V4 is similar to a match box. At the same time, the device (without antenna) weighs only 60 grams! Ideal to always have the device with you, for example during excursions on foot, by bicycle, motorcycles, on skis, by boat or in flight.

The Picoaprs was developed by Tanner Schenker (DB1nto).

[1] depending on, among other things, of the frequency of sending the position data, of the possible reception of aprs packages, of the possibility of automatically turning off the GPS receiver when not used and the display of the display.

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[2] The Picoaprs V4 supports the BT 'Classic' and (from version 8 from February 2023) the 'Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)'. This allows the iPhone Apple iPhone devices to connect to the APRS interface.

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menu items (can be further developed):

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Doscent device

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function SOS

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APRS Settings

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GPS

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Last listening

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bluetooth on/off

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wifi

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Weather Reports

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Radio settings

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messages

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The picaprs is supplied completely assembled. The unit is not equipped with charger or antenna. The standardized USB-C connection allows you to use the charger of a more recent mobile phone for charging. Alternatively, the device can be loaded with any USB charger or with the USB port of a PC.

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As an antenna you can use any antenna with SMA connection. The small device naturally encourages to use a tiny antenna, but of course the small antennas also have a relatively poor efficiency and the transmission power is only 1w. In the vehicle you absolutely must use an external antenna, for example a magnetic -based antenna.

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But this is not the end of the development of the picaprs. For the future, the DB1 developer is designing other variants, for example with long, medium and courtyard waves receivers.