LoRa-APRS Live

PD1HBL-12: LoRa iGate

I'm experimenting a bit with CA2RXU's iGate LoRa software, this firmware for LoRA has a number of advantages compared to other projects such as:
- APRS LoRa classic gateway
- Gateway + LoRa transmitter broadcasting weather information.
- Gigipeater APRS LoRa simplex ou duplex
- OTA (remote software update)
- Mini weather station
- Configuration multi-WLAN
- Distinct APRS symbols depending on the gateway mode
- Simple KISS connection for example BPQ and APRS software. 

I installed the software on a LilyGO TTGO T-Beam and also connected my BPQ node software and that is very nice. When the standard APRS service is linked, your beacon is also visible on the websites as APRS.FI there are also special websites for LoRa APRS as you can see above.

LilyGO TTGO T-Beam - 433MHz

CA2RXU's iGate LoRa

The CA2RXU LoRa iGate is an innovative solution for receiving and forwarding APRS data via LoRa technology.
With this gateway, amateur radio operators and IoT users can exchange data over long distances, even in areas where conventional networks are unavailable. The firmware is specifically designed to work with ESP32-based boards in combination with LoRa modules and GPS, making it a flexible and efficient solution for APRS communication.

Key Features of CA2RXU's LoRa iGate

• Support for APRS over LoRa: Sends and receives packets via APRS-IS.
• Compatibility with LoRa Trackers: Works seamlessly with LoRa APRS Tracker firmware.
• Web-based Configuration Interface: Easy settings adjustment via a browser.
• Digipeater Functionality: Optionally forwards APRS messages.
  
  

Installation of CA2RXU's LoRa iGate on a LoRa Device
Setting up a LoRa iGate requires several hardware components and software modifications:
Required Hardware

• ESP32 board (such as TTGO T-Beam)
• LoRa module (Ra-02/Ra-01)
• GPS module (if mobile use is desired)
• Antenna suitable for the selected LoRa frequency range

Installation Process:
Download the Firmware The CA2RXU firmware is available on GitHub and can be downloaded to the ESP32 board.
Flashing the Firmware Use a Web Flasher or an ESP32 Flashing Tool to upload the firmware to the board.
Configuration via the Web Interface After flashing, the device can be accessed through a web page where frequencies, APRS parameters, and network settings can be adjusted.
Connecting to APRS-IS Establish a connection with APRS-IS so that received messages are forwarded to the global APRS network.
Optimizing Antenna Placement For the best performance, it is recommended to place the antenna in a high location with minimal obstacles.
With these steps, your CA2RXU LoRa iGate is operational and ready to support APRS traffic via LoRa!