I started this website in 2014 to document how I configured radios for APRS position and PulseOx oximeter data telemetry (and for me in case I forget specifics on configuring this device). My first APRS package used the ArgentData OT-USB tracker with GPS receiver and Nonin 3212 oximeter. Radios included Yaseu VX2 (as seen in photo on right) Kenwood TH-F6 handheld and Icom 208H mobile radio. (click image to view larger image)
My later configurations use the ArgentData Tracker3 T3-Mini which I packaged this board into boxes with D-connectors, LED indicators, and Anderson PowerPole connector.
Nonin 3212 oximeter is placed on my index finger, it connects to a ArgentData Open Tracker that sends APRS packet data to a radio. This oximeter was part of a bulk sale found by Michael Pechner while he was working with Parachute Mobile team. The Nonin 3212 oximeter has serial data of heart rate and SpO2 at 9600 baud rate. Specific code was written by Michael who coordinated with Scott Miller of ArgentData to create a specific config file that integrates pulseox data within the APRS data stream.
Tracker3 T3-Mini:
I wired T3-Mini into a box with connectors, LEDs, and power switch. There are two versions, one is the smaller black box, the other is this larger size white box so items not so congested. Analog inputs are the connector on side. Intent for this package is when placed in a pouch, pocket, or under seat in car, all cables go in one direction. Other exceptions are DC power and USB, not enough room on top. Printed on side are pinouts to connectors, avoids having to refer to documentation when building new cables. I used DB9 connectors as these are rugged and mates are common. Anderson powerpole is for external 12VDC. There is a spot for a 9V battery inside, this needs to be removed if connecting to 12VDC. Also internal is a fuse.
Other photos:
Connection diagram of T3-Mini box
Inside smaller black box with T3-Mini
Inside white box with T3-Mini
Initially I had problems with Tracker3-mini when wired it into a box. It would not power both a GPS on port A and a PulseOx sensor on port B. Solution was use a separate 5V regulator to power the GPS and PulseOx sensor. I replaced the 680 ohm resistors for external LEDs with 1K resistors to reduce current draw from T3-mini board. With these changes made, it works as planned.
GPS receiver and Nonin 3212 Pulse Oximeter to OpenTracker-USB connection diagram GPS receiver connects to Dataport A (pin 2), oximeter connects to Dataport B (pin 8). OT-USB supplies 5 VDC to both devices. GPS outputs at 4800 baud, oximeter outputs at 9600 baud. I no longer use the OT-USB, the T3-Mini is similar configuration.
I designed Tracker 3 box to have same pinouts to GPS and PulseOx sensor as the OT-USB.
OpenTracker-USB to Kenwood TH-F6, Icom 208H, and Bendix King EMV/EMH radios
ArgentData OpenTracker-USB data tracker configuration:
Here is where you configure the OT-USB with a PC, connect the two with USB cable and run otwincfg.exe. I configured the following:
OpenTracker-USB data collection:
In 2013 I was on a hike with friends at Angel Island (an amazing place, first time I’ve been there), I was able to transmit APRS data of GPS and a oximeter. GPS RS232 comes in on dataport A (set at 4800 baud) and oximeter RS232 comes in on dataport B (set at 9600 baud).
I used a Kenwood F6 handheld with 1/4 wave dualband whip in my front pocket to transmit APRS. Another handheld I scanned W6PW repeater in case any hamsters read my APRS comment. However for SF W6TP and WA6TOW are more popular repeaters. Spreadsheet shows data collected by igate stations. I began transmissions when I left home, there are some periods when I turned off APRS while hanging around Pier 41 (I spent some time with the touristas). I stopped at Airport Marriott and turned off APRS (to get tickets for Intl Grand Ball dancesport competition I attended later that night).
(click image to view larger image)
Go ahead, try and find me at http://aprs.fi/info/a/K6MFW-9
APRS Manufacturers:
NOTE: I haven't followed up on these links originated more than 10 years ago, some might be dead.
Argent Data Systems, http://www.argentdata.com
Tracker3 Series site
OpenTracker USB (OTUSB) site
Byonics TinyTraks, http://www.byonics.com
Pulse Oximeter References:
External OEM Pulse Oximeter and Sensor
http://www.nonin.com/OEMSolutions/iPod
Manual for ipod w/USB Connector
http://www.nonin.com/documents/IFUManuals/6743-001-01%20ENG.pdf
Brochure of ipod Specifications (11-29-09)
http://www.nonin.com/documents/ipod%20Specifications.pdf
Pulse Oximeter Fundamentals and Design from Freescale Semiconductor 11/2012
http://www.freescale.com/files/32bit/doc/app_note/AN4327.pdf
Other activities I’m involved with that extensively use APRS:
Parachute Mobile, http://www.parachutemobile.org
California Near Space Project, http://www.cnsp-inc.com
APRS tracking sites:
APRS how-to and tutorials:
APRS applications:
APRS references:
APRS discussion groups: