Step-by-step: Difference between revisions
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# Buy a 16GB SD card for the Raspberry Pi, here's an example [https://www.amazon.com/Sandisk-Ultra-Micro-UHS-I-Adapter/dp/B073K14CVB/ref=sr_1_3?crid=A9NYIX1SVRLT&keywords=16gb%2Bmicro%2Bsd%2Bcard&qid=1682725322&sprefix=16gb%2Bmicro%2Bsd%2Bcard%2Caps%2C103&sr=8-3&th=1 SD card on Amazon] (about $10) | # Buy a 16GB SD card for the Raspberry Pi, here's an example [https://www.amazon.com/Sandisk-Ultra-Micro-UHS-I-Adapter/dp/B073K14CVB/ref=sr_1_3?crid=A9NYIX1SVRLT&keywords=16gb%2Bmicro%2Bsd%2Bcard&qid=1682725322&sprefix=16gb%2Bmicro%2Bsd%2Bcard%2Caps%2C103&sr=8-3&th=1 SD card on Amazon] (about $10) | ||
#* If you have a larger one you can use it, but TARPN doesn't require more space than 16GB. | #* If you have a larger one you can use it, but TARPN doesn't require more space than 16GB. | ||
# | # Only if you don't have one in your shack, buy a 13.8v power supply (about $150 new, less used) | ||
#* For example [https://mfjenterprises.com/products/mfj-4230mv MFJ-4230MV] or the [https://www.dxengineering.com/parts/alo-dm-330mvt|Alinco DM-330MVT]. | #* For example [https://mfjenterprises.com/products/mfj-4230mv MFJ-4230MV] or the [https://www.dxengineering.com/parts/alo-dm-330mvt|Alinco DM-330MVT]. | ||
#* If you're using an HT, you may not need a power supply so long as you have an AC adapter that allows transmit (some only allow receive). | #* If you're using an HT, you may not need a power supply so long as you have an AC adapter that allows transmit (some only allow receive). | ||
Revision as of 00:01, 29 April 2023
These are the high level steps to build your very own 1-port TARPN node. Some steps link out to a more detailed guide, since this page is your one-stop overview.
- Build or buy a NinoTNC (about $45 in parts)
- Buy the PCB on Etsy, and necessary components. Then follow these detailed construction steps.
- Or ask if you can buy an assembled NinoTNC from an existing TARPN member, who often have spares.
- Acquire an appropriate VHF or UHF radio (about $50 used)
- Any VHF/UHF radio can be used so long as you can buy or make an audio/PTT connection cable for it (see this homebrew Kenwood cable). Even a basic Baofeng UV-5R can be used with a homemade cable, though it's limited to 5 watts. The radio suggestions below are higher power.
- Most TARPN members buy inexpensive used commercial radios by reprogramming them for ham radio frequencies.
- Here are eBay searches for some popular models known to work well with TARPN (fast PTT switching speed):
- Buy a Raspberry Pi (about $40)
- The site rpilocator shows which online stores have them in stock.
- Most full-size models are compatible with TARPN.
- Avoid: "Pi 1 Model B rev 1", "Zero", and "Compute Module (CM)" versions.
- You can see the full list of supported models.
- Buy a 16GB SD card for the Raspberry Pi, here's an example SD card on Amazon (about $10)
- If you have a larger one you can use it, but TARPN doesn't require more space than 16GB.
- Only if you don't have one in your shack, buy a 13.8v power supply (about $150 new, less used)
- For example MFJ-4230MV or the DM-330MVT.
- If you're using an HT, you may not need a power supply so long as you have an AC adapter that allows transmit (some only allow receive).
- You'll need an appropriate antenna for your radio (e.g. 2M antenna for a 2M radio), and coax to attach it.
- You can use any external antenna you want, don't use use a "rubby ducky" antenna on an HT or you will get very little range.
- Popular antennas with TARPN members are the Comet GP-15 (triband omni for 6m, 2m, and 70cm), Antenna A144S5 (yagi for 2m), or even a homebrew groundplane or homebrew j-pole.
- The full TARPN site has many more antenna ideas.
