MB7VM Digipeater


APRS digipeater MB7VM is located at Bell Hill, Dorset aprox 258m asl near the village of Ibberton.


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. MB7VM's antenna is the folded dipole on the standoff to the left hand side.


MB7VM setup in the hilltop hut. This placement was chosen due to the QRM from co-located equipment.


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.


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.