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F.A.Q.

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Mustafa Tan edited this page Sep 28, 2022 · 10 revisions

FAQ

Q. Is LightAPRS-W 2.0 upgraded version of LightAPRS-W 1.0?

A. Exactly. Basic differences between LightAPRS-W 1.0 and LightAPRS-W 2.0 are:

  • LightAPRS-W 2.0 is lighter and smaller. (~5 grams lighter than LightAPRS-W 1.0)
  • LightTracker has a faster CPU and Flash/Ram doubled
  • LightTracker does not need CH3G0G driver for USB serial port.
  • LightTracker does not need to configure Board Manager (such as MightyCore) for Arduino.
  • LightTracker has a better regulator (wider input voltage range)

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Q. What is Pico Balloon?

A. A pico balloon is a small beacon tied to a relatively normal balloon filled with helium or hydrogen. The beacon is very light and can contain various sensors measuring basic atmospheric variables – there are no limits to your creativity. The data is obtained by radio transmission using unlicensed or licensed bands. When inflated correctly, the balloon can rise up to 10 kilometers (with party balloons), where it floats and drifts with the air streams. A pico balloon presents a very interesting challenge for makers – be it working with the limited weight, limited power options or radio communication. Join https://groups.io/g/picoballoon mail group to learn more about the pico balloon hobby.

Q. Do I need a permission to launch a pico balloon?

A. No you don't. Since pico balloons are very small and light, you are FAA 101 exempt. Please check out this page for detailed info.

Q. For tracking a pico ballon around the world, using amateur radio frequencies is not the only option ?

A. Not anymore. Thanks to public LoRaWAN networks such as TTN (The Things Network) and Helium.com and our LoRa Tracker https://github.com/lightaprs/LightTracker-1.0

(Also if you have an HAM license, also check out our APRS Tracker : https://github.com/lightaprs/LightAPRS-1.0)

Q. Is LightAPRS-W 2.0 frequency agile like LightAPRS-W 1.0?

A. Yes it's. LightAPRS-W 2.0's VHF (APRS) radio module supports 144 to 146 MHz and software (open source) automatically change APRS region settings based on GPS location.

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Q. What about power consumption? Lower then LightAPRS-W 1.0?

A. Yes, in fact much lower. Our VHF radio module draw very little current even transmitting (~100mA) So a small (5 V, 50 mA) solar panel and two serial connected super caps (3V, 3.3F) enough to power it.

Support

If you have any questions or need supoort, please contact [email protected]

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