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Getting Started

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Dale Thomas edited this page Mar 14, 2026 · 1 revision

Getting Started

This page gives you an overview of everything you need before building and operating HamMessenger. Follow the links at each step to the detailed pages for that phase.

Prerequisites

Amateur Radio License

HamMessenger transmits on amateur radio frequencies. You must hold a valid amateur radio license (Technician class or higher in the US) before operating the device on the air. Receiving-only use does not require a license, but you won't be able to transmit beacons or messages.

Skills and Tools

Skill / Tool Required for
Basic soldering Assembling the PCB and shield
Arduino IDE or Arduino CLI Uploading firmware
Python 3.11+ Running the GUI from source (optional if using pre-built installer)
3D printer (or print service) Printing the enclosure
FTDI USB-to-serial cable Flashing the MicroAPRS modem
Multimeter Verifying connections

High-Level Build Path

Here is the recommended sequence for building HamMessenger from scratch:

1. Gather hardware → Hardware

Order the PCB, source all components, and print or order the enclosure.

2. Assemble the device → Building the Device

Solder the shield, assemble the enclosure, and wire all peripherals.

3. Flash the firmware → Firmware Installation

Upload the HamMessenger sketch to the Arduino Mega and flash the MicroAPRS firmware to the Arduino Pro Mini modem.

4. Set up your radio → Radio Setup

Program your transceiver to the APRS frequency and connect it to the device.

5. Configure the device → Configuration Reference

Enter your callsign, SSID, beacon settings, and other preferences.

6. Start operating → Operating the Device

Send messages, track your position, and monitor the APRS network.

7. (Optional) Install the desktop GUI → Desktop GUI

Connect HamMessenger to your computer to monitor activity and send commands from a graphical interface.

Using Pre-Built Releases

If you already have the hardware assembled and just need the software, download the latest release from the Releases page. Each release includes:

  • HamMessenger.hex — Pre-compiled Arduino Mega firmware
  • HamMessenger-windows.exe — Windows desktop GUI installer
  • HamMessenger-macos.dmg — macOS desktop GUI installer

Pre-built modem firmware (MicroAPRS .hex files) is included in the repository under Source/MicroAPRS Firmware Installer/.

Quick-Start Checklist

  • Valid amateur radio license obtained
  • PCB ordered or etched
  • All components sourced (see Hardware)
  • Enclosure printed (STL files in Source/CAD/Fusion-360/Builds/)
  • Arduino Mega firmware flashed
  • MicroAPRS modem firmware flashed
  • Radio programmed to 144.390 MHz
  • Callsign and SSID configured on device
  • First beacon transmitted successfully

Next: Hardware

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