The Software

The Background

Probably the most important part of the APRS Radio Tracking system, is the computer software program which, amongst many other things, must display the Trackers on a topographical map.

There are several APRS tracking programs available in the world, but the main problem we struck straight away was that they are incompatible with the New Zealand NZMG map projection. Also, these APRS programs, while some of them have many features, they are not geared toward Search and Rescue. For example, Tactical call signs and multi colour tracks are not available.

This left us with no other choice then to write the entire software from scratch, including developing the topographical map display and obtaining licenses to use the topographical maps in digital format to be used in the program.

As a result, the initial idea to have a working program in the beginning of 2008 turned into a multti-year major software development project, which is only now, November 2010 at Beta stage.

The SARTrack program

What then are our requirements for the SARTrack program (and it is a long list):

To be able to track up to 100 stations, and to display them on a topographical map.
All Map data to be locally available on the laptop (no Internet required).
Every station (tracker) to get a Tactical callsign, separate colour track, Icon, customizable Screen label.
Screen Labels to show (selectable): Tactical callsign, Coordinates, Speed, Altitude, Course
Screen Labels to change color if the station has timed out, or has send a Priority message.
Warning systems to show stations loss of signal, and Priority Warning with screen and Audio signal and selectable Message.
A Priority Icon to show on the map when priority signal received. Also automatic log entry.
Event Log (Running Log) system, which enables the operators to enter Log entries with pull-down lists for all active stations. Automatic Log entry in case of Priority Signal received, or loss of signal, and when Icon Markers are added by the operators. The Log can be added to from multiple computers, both locally and remote. The Radio operator can enter Log entries which will then show up on the Controller PC, and any other PC's active on the search.
Option to print out Log entries and messages on the local printer (on an entry-by-entry basis).
Capability for operators to add special Marker Icons on the map, with detailed data attached to it, including documents and pictures.
Capability to draw search areas on the map and share with other computers.
Dual Screen capability, where the Map screen can be displayed on a separate monitor or video projector, while all operational displays are on the laptop screen.
Capability to network several computers and share all data, so a radio operator can enter Log entries and view location of stations, and the operations team view the map and operate another laptop in the operations room.
Capability to connect to an Igate server via the Internet, if available, to share all Tracking data with computers across New Zealand.
A messaging system which enable all computers to communicate encrypted text messages with each other, even if only connected by radio.
A 'Text Message' system which enables Radio based computers to send one-line emails and TXT messages to mobile phones.
All data, tracking information, events, log entries etc. to be stored immediately and permanently on all connected computers.
Capability to re-play the entire Search on the screen.
To print out the Log system and tracking maps at the end of the search.

Furthermore, the program must be

Extremely easy to use, following all standard Windows conventions, such as dragging the Map by left-mouse down and drag, zooming in and out with the mouse-wheel, right-clicking on Icons on the screen and get a pop-up menu with all options, etc.
As many functions as possible should be automated.
No requirement to use the more advanced functions; the program should work and start tracking right after startup.

At the time of writing (Updated November 2010), most of the above functions have now been incorporated in the program, and the program is at Beta level.

We can now supply the software to SAR groups for FREE evaluation. Please contact us for details.

But, why would you use SARTrack?

November 2010