Hi,
I plan to launch a high altitude balloon (my first). I plan to use the Radiometrix HX1 transmitter for APRS tracking (I have a license) but at $55 it’s looking rather pricey for my budget; are there any alternatives that will work well? With regards to software, I’m looking into adapting the Trackuino firmware. I’m using an Arduino UNO.
I've looked into the Trackuino itself and the Habduino but it seems that all projects like this use the HX1.
Thanks!
Byonics has some good APRS trackers. $55 looks like a good deal to me.
Check out Stuart Robinson's extremely long range, low power DIY LoRa trackers at his balloon site: http://www.loratracker.uk/
Yes, track it yourself with LoRa.
About $5 for the LoRa module and drive it with a Pro Mini.
Current range record with LoRa, ground to high altitude balloon stands at 702km, 868Mhz @ 25mW.
Thank you for your responses – I'm looking into LoRa.
If, though, I were to use the HX-1, I understand I'd need to attach an antenna (SMA). What is the best way to do this with an Arduino?
I'm also looking into the Argent Data Radio Shield 2 for Arduino.
Any suggestions about this (or ballooning in general)?
Thanks.
I understand I'd need to attach an antenna (SMA). What is the best way to do this with an Arduino?
The antenna attaches to the radio module, not the Arduino. You will need an appropriate antenna for any radio.
Appreciate that launching high altidude balloons is not cheap, the balloons and gas needed can be expensive.
If you think that the attachment of the transmitters antenna is in any way related to the Arduino itself, you are mistaken.
I would suggest you find someone local to you who can guide you.
(I'm rather new to this, as I'm sure you can tell. 
). Thank you for the clarification.