MB7UVM Digipeater


APRS digipeater MB7UVM is located at Bell Hill, Dorset approx 258m asl near the village of Ibberton. The digipeater comprises of a Tait T2010 PMR radio. MAXPAC TNC2 clone modified with an ATTiny85 true DCD board and UIDIGI EEPROM. Powered by an ATX power supply coupled with a home brew ATmega328P GSM control and telemetry board.



APRS iGate

The digipeater shown here during development. An HP server power supply was originally used, but startup inrush briefly measured ~100w which didn't work well on a cold start at the hilltop site.


The amateur radio tower at Bell Hill, Dorset. MB7UVM's antenna is the folded dipole on the standoff to the left hand side.


MB7UVM setup in the hilltop hut. This placement was chosen due to the QRM from co-located equipment.


Live since 3rd March 2024


The service is intended to revive the APRS coverage once provided by M1ABD which was located on the Dorset Police mast at Bulbarrow hill until 14 Aug 2018.


Find further details on UKRepeater.


Status

28-06-2026 : The RSGB updated the callsign of MB7VM to MB7UVM

06-06-2026 : MB7VM site visit. TNC found to have locked up, even after reboot. Backup radio and Siskin (Paccom) Tiny-2 fitted. Service restored 13:27.

27-05-2026 : MB7VM failed around 4AM. The weather had been extremely warm the previous day >30c