PicoAPRS Lite

PicoAPRS Lite is an APRS tracker that weighs only 7g (without housing, battery and SMA socket). It was developed with stratospheric balloon missions in mind.

The used GPS module works without any altitude limitations. The tracker is very efficient and can work with a small solar cell and buffer capacitors. Its current consumption is approximately 3 mA.
It also includes a temperature and air pressure sensor.

Due to its small dimensions of only 27.8 x 66.9 x 6.3 mm, this compact tracker can, for example, be installed in cars almost invisibly. This allows you to use APRS without annoying wiring in the car or too short antenna cables.

PicoAPRS Lite:

• A small solar cell with a buffer capacitor as well as batteries or accumulators can be used as an energy source. Working range 3,2V – 5V,
• When using a solar cell, the PicoARPS Lite will stay in battery save mode, consuming only about 0.1mA until the buffer capacitor has built up enough power, then will send its coordinates and go back to battery saving mode.
• Even when using the battery, the power saving mode will be used between beacons to extend battery life.
• Micro USB port for configuration settings using the terminal software,
• Integrated GPS module with unblocked AIR mode
• Configurable transmission power between 0.5W – 1W,
• 7-circuit low-pass filter eliminates unwanted harmonics
• LED diode signals the operating status,
• Possible software updates via USB port,
• Automatic or manual frequency tuning,
• In areas without APRS coverage and with automatic frequency tuning, the tracker will transmit its position to the APRS ISS (International Space Station) frequency,
• Atmospheric temperature and pressure sensor,

Optional accessories:

• SMA socket for PCB mounting, in vertical position, with long thread, and a nut for fixing,
• 3.6 V / 800 mA lithium polymer battery, as well as a compatible cable for connecting an external power source,
• Small USB charger for 4 LiPo batteries max.

Voltage regulation:
When working with a solar panel and a buffer capacitor, the operating voltage usually drops to zero overnight.
As the sun rises, the device will work again, sending the coordinates of the moving load.
Due to the lack of a voltage regulator for the batteries, please do not charge the batteries via the USB port.

remember that to work on amateur bands you must have the so-called Radio license , popularly referred to as the ham radio license.
If you do not have one yourself, look for an amateurs club in the vicinity or invite someone who has permission to join their team.