How to Use APRS for Emergency Communication

In an emergency situation, communication is critical. Cell towers can go down. The internet can vanish. But ham radio keeps going. One of the most powerful tools in a ham’s emergency toolbox is APRS – the Automatic Packet Reporting System. With APRS, operators can share their GPS location, send messages, relay weather data, and even track supplies or team members — all without relying on conventional infrastructure.

📡 What is APRS?

Developed by Bob Bruninga (WB4APR), APRS is a real-time tactical digital communication system used by amateur radio operators worldwide. It sends small data packets over radio frequencies — most commonly 144.390 MHz in North America — and these packets can contain position data, weather reports, short messages, and more.

Unlike voice communications, APRS works silently in the background. You can transmit your location every few minutes, and any station or gateway that hears it can share that data online through services like APRS.fi.

🧰 Essential APRS Equipment

To use APRS, you’ll need a few pieces of gear:

• An APRS-capable radio like the Kenwood TH-D74A or Yaesu FT3DR
• GPS receiver (some radios have it built-in; others need an external one like the Garmin eTrex 10)
• TNC (Terminal Node Controller) or sound modem (if not integrated)
• APRS software like aprs.fi or APRSdroid

If you use a radio without native APRS support (like a Baofeng), pair it with a Bluetooth TNC such as the Mobilinkd TNC3. These work seamlessly with Android apps and even some Windows software.

🌐 APRS in Action During Emergencies

When disaster strikes, APRS becomes invaluable. Here’s how:

• Location Tracking: Responders, volunteers, and resources can be tracked in real time. This is useful for search and rescue or coordinating disaster relief.
• Messaging: APRS supports short text messages between operators, even when voice nets are congested.
• Weather Reports: If you have a WX station (like a Davis or Peet Bros) connected to your setup, APRS can send local weather data to nearby operators and online systems.
• Beaconing Supplies or Checkpoints: You can configure your APRS station to transmit fixed positions (like supply depots or medical tents).

🔧 Setting Up Your APRS Station

To configure your APRS station for emergencies:

1. Make sure your radio is tuned to 144.390 MHz.
2. Connect your GPS to your TNC or use a radio with integrated GPS.
3. Enter your callsign and optional SSID (e.g., KI5QHC-9 for mobile) into the configuration menu.
4. Adjust beacon timing to avoid spamming the airwaves.
5. Use aprs.fi to verify you’re being received.

If you’re using APRSdroid on a smartphone, connect it via Bluetooth to your Mobilinkd TNC, configure it to use 144.390 MHz, and you’re off to the races.

🔋 Recommended Accessories for Field Use

• Anderson Powerpole kit for easy power hookups
• Mobilinkd TNC3 for compact APRS integration
• Garmin eTrex 10 GPS – rugged and field-tested
• Roll-up J-pole antenna for better signal in the field

🧭 Field-Tested Prepper Tips

• Include your APRS gear in your ham radio go-kit.
• Test your beacon in different terrain — APRS performance varies greatly with line of sight.
• Use lithium-ion or LiFePO4 batteries for longer deployments.
• Consider setting up a digipeater or iGate from your home QTH for neighborhood coverage.

💬 Final Thoughts

APRS isn’t just for tracking your car or chatting with other hams. It’s a life-saving technology when used right. For preppers, ARES members, or anyone interested in off-grid communication, mastering APRS adds another layer of resilience to your toolkit. Be sure to explore our getting started guide if you’re new to ham radio, or dive into building your go-kit next.

Let me know how you use APRS — drop a comment below or tag #KI5QHC on social media.