If you’re an amateur radio operator dabbling with APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System), you’ve probably heard of software like Xastir or APRSISCE. But there’s another powerful, under-the-radar option out there: YAAC, short for Yet Another APRS Client.

Developed by Andrew Pavlin, KA2DDO, YAAC is a cross-platform APRS client written in Java. It’s free, open-source, and remarkably feature-rich. Whether you’re trying to track APRS packets from the Internet or your TNC, set up an I-Gate, or experiment with plugins and telemetry — YAAC can handle it all.

Why YAAC?

YAAC isn’t just another APRS visualizer. It’s a full-fledged APRS client that runs on Windows, Linux, macOS, Raspberry Pi, and even FreeBSD. The UI is simple but functional, and there’s extensive documentation to help you get started. What really sets YAAC apart is its modular design and extensibility. You can write plugins or use existing ones to integrate features like:

• Weather overlays
• Aircraft tracking via ADS-B
• Callsign database lookup
• Secure authentication over APRS
• AREDN mesh object mapping
• Repeater finder
• Integration with TAK networks (yes, you can bridge data to ATAK/iTAK!)

Key Features

• Multiple map views using OpenStreetMap, with offline support
• Operates as a standalone client, digipeater, or Internet gateway
• Connects via TNCs (Kenwood, TinyTrak, Mobilinkd, etc.) or soundmodems (DireWolf, UZ7HO)
• Full support for APRS-IS, including secure SSL-based login (experimental)
• GPS and weather station integration
• Can be automated, extended, and used headless for lightweight setups

Runs Anywhere – Even on Raspberry Pi

YAAC is a solid option for low-power or portable use. It works well on Raspberry Pi models 2, 3, and 4, and has specific guidance for installation on Pi OS. If you’re setting up a field APRS tracker or a compact I-Gate node, this is worth a look.

Installation is as simple as downloading the .zip, unzipping it, and launching with:

java -jar YAAC.jar

Just make sure you’re running Java 8 or later with GUI (not headless-only).

Plugin Ecosystem

YAAC includes a surprisingly rich plugin environment. Some of the coolest plugins I found:

• takplugin: allows YAAC to interface with ATAK/iTAK – useful for tactical teams or SAR
• soundsplugin: enables event-triggered speech alerts
• telemetryalarmplugin: monitor APRS telemetry and trigger warnings
• dynamicobjectsplugin: create moving APRS objects based on GPX tracks

You can install them directly from the app under Help → Install Plugins.

What’s the Catch?

YAAC is written in Java, and while it works well, the interface is a bit old-school compared to modern UI expectations. It also doesn’t run on Android (yet), since it relies on AWT and Swing for its graphics. But if you’re comfortable with a traditional desktop-style interface, you’ll find it reliable and flexible.

It might take some initial setup — especially for configuring TNCs or APRS-IS connections — but once it’s running, it’s rock solid.

Final Thoughts

YAAC is one of those hidden gems in the ham radio software world. It’s open, active, and made with care by someone who clearly understands the needs of operators. Whether you’re just listening to APRS traffic or building a more complex setup (digipeater, I-Gate, or telemetry station), YAAC is up to the task.

Give it a try. Unzip it, configure your port, and get on the air.
And if you’re a developer, jump in and write a plugin — the community could use more contributors.

📡 Download YAAC here