[amsat-bb] APRS Nationwide Coverage needs help

[Bob Bruninga <bruninga@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Even if you are not into APRS, you might be able to help your fellow HAM 
travelers through your area of the country.  An analysis of all the APRS
digipeaters in the USA shows the following statistics at the end of 1998.

EAST of Mississippi:  82% of population is coverd by APRS digipeaters
                      52% of the area is covered

WEST of Mississippi:  57% of the population is covered by APRS
                      28% of the area is covered.

Remember, with the new Kenwood HT, as long as you are in the APRS coverage
area, you have nationwide 2-way messaging capability in your pocket!  Our
OBJECTIVE is to at least cover the major thoroughfares (and hub Airports)
for travelers.  Notable weak areas in the east (though work is in
progress) are:

 South Georgia, Eastern NC
 Western PA, WV, N.central NY state
 Mississippi,
 Southern IL/IN, Western KY

In the West, the biggest worry is UTAH for the Olympics!  Plus:

 TEXAS needs links between major centers of activity
 S.Arkansas and N.Louisianna 
 Wyoming, Montanna, Oregon

All it takes to set up an APRS digipeater is a TNC and a radio on 144.39
to serve your area.  If packet has died in your area, or for any other
reason you have an available high antenna and spare TNC, we could sure use
you on 144.39.   Come join us.

To see the existing coverage browse:  http://www.aprs.org
and click on the link about midway down labeled DIGIPEATERS...

de WB4APR, Bob



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