DigiPi 2.0, created by KM6LYW, is a purpose-built, open-source software distribution designed to simplify the deployment of APRS packet radio digipeaters and iGates using low-cost, readily available hardware. It is widely adopted by amateur radio operators who want a reliable, always-on APRS infrastructure node without the complexity of building a system entirely from scratch.
At its core, DigiPi 2.0 combines proven Linux services, packet-radio tooling, and radio-friendly configuration defaults into a cohesive platform optimized for unattended operation.
Reference Hardware Stack
A common and well-documented DigiPi 2.0 deployment uses the following components:
Raspberry Pi 4
Raspberry Pi hardware—specifically the Raspberry Pi 4—provides the compute platform. Its quad-core CPU, ample RAM, USB bandwidth, and Ethernet interface make it well-suited for continuous packet decoding, APRS-IS connectivity, and system monitoring.
Baofeng UV-5R Mini
The Baofeng Baofeng UV-5R Mini is frequently used as the RF front end. While inexpensive, it is capable of stable 1200-baud AFSK operation on VHF APRS frequencies when properly configured and paired with a quality audio interface.
AIOC Audio Interface
The AIOC (All-In-One-Cable) from NA6D integrates a CM108-based USB sound card and radio control wiring into a compact, purpose-built interface. It provides:
- Clean discriminator-grade audio paths
- Reliable PTT control
- USB plug-and-play operation with Linux
This significantly reduces cabling complexity and improves long-term stability compared to generic USB sound dongles.
Software Architecture
DigiPi 2.0 is built on a lightweight Linux foundation and centers around Dire Wolf, a high-performance software TNC. Key functional components include:
- APRS Digipeater
Repeats RF packets based on configurable path rules (e.g., WIDE1-1, WIDE2-1), improving local APRS coverage. - APRS iGate
Bridges RF packets to the global APRS-IS network and injects selected internet traffic back onto RF, extending situational awareness for local stations. - System Services & Hardening
- Automatic service startup via systemd
- Log rotation and watchdog behavior
- Optional GPSD integration for precise node positioning
- Headless operation with SSH-based management
Why DigiPi 2.0 Is Popular
DigiPi 2.0 has become a de facto standard for home and community APRS nodes because it delivers:
- Rapid deployment with sensible defaults
- Hardware flexibility, from handheld radios to mobile rigs
- Stability, proven in continuous 24/7 operation
- Transparency, with fully open configuration and logs
- Community support, including documentation and shared configs
For operators building neighborhood digipeaters, emergency-communications infrastructure, or experimental APRS telemetry systems, DigiPi 2.0 provides a strong balance between simplicity and control.
Typical Use Cases
- Home APRS digipeater and fill-in node
- Low-power iGate for rural or fringe coverage areas
- Portable APRS infrastructure for events or exercises
- Test platform for packet experimentation and APRS scripting
Summary
DigiPi 2.0, when paired with a Raspberry Pi 4, Baofeng UV-5R Mini, and NA6D AIOC, offers an accessible yet robust path to deploying a fully functional APRS packet radio digipeater and iGate. It exemplifies how modern Linux tooling and modest RF hardware can be combined to strengthen amateur radio digital networks with minimal cost and operational overhead.
If you want, I can tailor this into a WordPress-ready blog post, add a diagram of the RF/audio signal flow, or produce a step-by-step build and configuration guide aligned with your specific station standards.