SDS100/SDS200: APRS decode/display

[KB7MIB]

I'm wondering if the SDS scanners can be updated to decode/display APRS data on their screen with just a firmware update, or if they would need a TNC as well?

They can do just about everything else, so why not APRS, or any other digital data & voice modes found from the 10m to 23cm ham bands?

John
Peoria, AZ

 

[dmfalk]

It was never meant for data decoding. Heck, it doesn't even do SSB, the only analogue audio mode it doesn't decode.

 

[Ubbe]

It's a digital signal processor in the scanner so it can decode any mode with the proper firmware. There's not much memory left to add things but you could certainly skip the LTR decoder and reuse the code for APRS. But you will have to look at if it is something that many users would like and the board of directors at Uniden always look at if they will make more money, sell more scanners, if they invest in a new feature.

I would think that most people that are interested in APRS also have a transmitting radio with that mode, so probably not a big selling point if it where included in a scanner.

/Ubbe

 

[KB7MIB]

I was thinking that it might get a scanner listener interested in getting a ham license, if they can see, literally, that ham radio isn't just voice and Morse Code.

For hams who are also scanner listener's, it could be a back-up monitor for APRS if needed.

John
Peoria, AZ

 

[vagrant]

There are smart phone apps out there for that.