Last heard: 2026-05-24 02:50:31 UTC
Comment: Garmin Explore
Page generated: 2026-05-24 19:59:15 UTC
The usual configuration when I operate mobile in my 2016 Honda CR-Z is Kenwood TH-D74A running off of a three-port 12V extension outlet that includes a built-in voltmeter run to the ignition-switched 12V car outlet. The 'D74A is used for APRS on one VFO, and D-STAR, FM phone on the other. In a pinch, I can retarget it for secondary digital operations (such as Winlink to an Android tablet). The radio is connected to a head Lido mount attached to a seat bolt.
If I need an APRS client, I run APRSdroid on a Samsung Galaxy Fold. When I do that, APRSdroid connects over Bluetooth to the TH-D74A. Normally, though, I just operate the 'D74A as a stand-alone tracker.
For antennas, I use a couple of dual-band low-profile magmount antennas, one dedicated to the radio, and one in case I bring another 2m/70cm radio with me. I can't remember who made them; they've been moving from car to car to car for about fifteen years. I would not be surprised if they are from MFJ Enterprises, though. The coax runs along the center console, along under the back cargo shelf, and then up and through the rear hatch and on the rear of the vehicle.
For when I'm out of both 5G and 2m availability, I also can beacon my position using the Garmin inReach service with my Garmin Montana 700. I've written a microservice in Python that monitors both APRS-IS and Garmin Explore, picks the latest position available, and proxies that on to the APRS-IS TCP/IP feed. That won't update my position over ham radio, but keeps this map and APRS users on the Internet up to date.