[Xastir] System cost options

[Richard Polivka, N6NKO]

Another possibility is to look at Byonics.com. They make units that work 
great for APRS trackers.

They may be a possibility.

73 from 807,

Richard, N6NKO


Jim Tolbert wrote:
> Thank you very much to Curt, Jason, Tom, & Gerry for the comments.
>
> So if I were to go with APRS/ Xastir /Linux......  It appears that I 
> can download Linux and I have a laptop available.   I can download 
> Xastir.  So the costs for each field searcher will be will be  $500 ( 
> Kenwood D7A ($350) plus a mapping GPS (Etrex Summit ($150)).   Then do 
> I need the same for the laptop or only the Kenwood D7A or something 
> else? 
> For 4 teams(two units per team -- one at each end) plus a dog plus two 
> mounted searchers plus the laptop, I will need 12 sets or $6,000.   
> For Garmin Rino 110 (5 mile GMRS)  I would have 12 @ $150 = $1800. For 
> Garmin Rino 520 (14 mile GMRS) I would have 12 @ $360 = $4320. 
> Are there other options that should be considered with a cost between 
> high & low?  I am pretty sure we do not have the ability to homebrew 
> equipment, so unless they are VERY straightforward, I think kits are out.
>
> I don't know if this has any impact on the situation, but we have huge 
> holes in our cellular coverage and our radio infrastructure is dated 
> and heavily loaded also with holes in the reception.
>
> Is the general consensus  that I should wait until we can afford the 
> Kenwood / GPS unit system or go now with one of the Rino options.   I 
> don't know what is available as far as funds......  I am just trying 
> to get a good picture of the impact of the choices.
>
> Many thanx to all ..........  you have been VERY helpful.........  jt
>