Description
The PicoAPRS V4 takes compact APRS transceivers to the next level! This latest version introduces a full-fledged VHF handheld radio experience, complete with FM mode, PTT, channel memory, a color display, and much more—while still keeping its incredibly small form factor.
Advanced Features & Upgrades:
✅ Complete Packet Radio Transceiver – Equipped with an integrated TNC for seamless APRS communication.
✅ New PTT Button, Microphone & Speaker – Now functions as a true handheld transceiver without significantly increasing its size!
✅ Multi-Connectivity – Supports APRS over USB-C, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, making it easy to use as an APRS iGate in a way never seen before in such a compact device.
✅ Convenient Over-the-Air Updates – Wi-Fi integration allows effortless firmware updates via a built-in web server. The intuitive web interface also simplifies channel memory management (export/import) and additional configurations.
✅ Improved Color Display – Now larger and in full color (240 x 240 pixels), displaying incoming APRS packets, position reports, text messages (APRS messages similar to SMS), and status updates. Distance and direction to received stations are also shown.
✅ GPS Tracking & Navigation – Integrated GPS receiver for live position tracking, useful for geocaching or as a general GPS tracker. If GPS reception is unavailable, a fixed position can be manually stored. A speedometer function is also included, with options for km/h, mph, and knots.
User-Friendly & Ready to Go
📟 Joystick Navigation – The new five-button joystick interface makes operation even easier, allowing full menu control and settings adjustments without a computer.
⚡ Pre-Configured for Immediate Use – Just enter your callsign, and you’re ready to transmit.
🔋 Long Battery Life – The replaceable 850mAh Li-Ion battery (same as in the previous V3 model) provides up to 10 hours of operation, depending on configuration. Now with a side-mounted USB-C port for stable charging while in use.
📡 Efficient APRS Transmission – Uses MIC-E compression to minimize frequency use and conserve battery life, while still decoding both MIC-E and uncompressed APRS packets.
More than Just APRS: Unique Features
📟 Pager Replacement (POCSAG) – Unlike traditional pagers, the PicoAPRS V4 provides delivery confirmations for sent messages.
🚶 Follow Mode – Track a partner’s position in real-time (e.g., while skiing or on group trips). Distance and direction to the tracked station update automatically.
📡 Superior RF Performance – Features a 7-pole harmonic filter to reduce unwanted emissions.
💾 Powerful Hardware – Built around an ESP32D processor with 16MB RAM, alongside an AtMega 328P for RF control. The software still has ample room for future enhancements.
Ultra-Portable & Versatile
🟢 Ultra-Compact Size – At only 33mm x 66mm x 25mm, it’s no larger than a matchbox!
⚖️ Lightweight – Weighs just 60g (without antenna), making it perfect for hiking, biking, motorcycling, skiing, boating, or airborne operations.
📡 Antenna Flexibility – Compatible with any SMA-connector antenna. While small antennas are convenient, an external antenna (e.g., magnetic-mount for vehicles) is recommended for optimal performance with the ~0.8W transmit power (switchable to 0.5W).
What’s in the Box?
The PicoAPRS V4 comes fully assembled.
🔹 Antenna & charger NOT included (standard USB-C chargers can be used).
Future Developments
The PicoAPRS V4 is just the beginning! Developer Taner Schenker (DB1NTO) is already working on future variants, including models with LoRa (433 MHz) support and receiver options for longwave, mediumwave, and shortwave.
🚀 Experience the next level of ultra-portable APRS technology with the PicoAPRS V4! 🚀
