It’s organized by Michael KC8OWL, and the idea is simple: just send a short APRS message to ANSRVR or APRSPH sometime on Thursday (UTC).

That’s it. But like many of us, I sometimes forget to send mine. So I decided to build a little automation to take care of it.

Why I Built This

I wanted something that would:

• Automatically send my check-in message every Thursday
• Run quietly in the background
• Work on my Raspberry Pi server
• It is easy to manage with Docker

And that’s how the 9M2PJU APRS Thursday Check-in Bot was born.

What It Does

This bot runs 24/7 and sends the following APRS message every Thursday at 9:00 PM Malaysia Time (MYT):

HOTG Hello from CALLSIGN

It connects to aprs.hamradio.my:14580 using aprslib and sends the message exactly the way the #APRSThursday net expects.

You Can Also Test It Anytime

I also added a test mode. Just run:

docker compose run --rm aprs-thursday-check-in python /app/aprs-thursday-check-in.py --test

..and it sends the message instantly. Useful for checking if your server or internet connection is working properly.

Tech Stuff

• Written in Python
• Dockerized with a super lightweight python:alpine image
• Runs well on low-resource devices

You just clone the repo, build it with Docker, and let it run. No need to set up cron or anything.

Want to Use It?

Here’s the GitHub repo:
https://github.com/9M2PJU/9M2PJU-APRS-Thursday-Check-in-Bot

Setup is simple. Just:

git clone https://github.com/9M2PJU/9M2PJU-APRS-Thursday-Check-In-Bot.git
cd 9M2PJU-APRS-Thursday-Check-In-Bot
docker compose up -d --build

That’s it. The bot will now check in every Thursday on its own.

Final Thoughts

I built this for myself, but I figured it might help someone else, too. If you want to support the APRS community and keep message-based activity alive, this is an easy way to do it.

Feel free to fork, improve, or just use it as-is. I’ll keep updating it if I come up with new ideas.

The post 9M2PJU APRS Thursday Check-in Bot appeared on Hamradio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Product Reviews by 9M2PJU.

If you’ve ever dabbled in open source software, you’ve probably come across the term “BSD License.” But what exactly is it? Is it safe to use in your project? Can you build a business around it? Or remix the code however you want?

The BSD License, In a Nutshell

The BSD License is one of the simplest, most permissive open source licenses out there. It comes from the Berkeley Software Distribution (BSD), a Unix-based operating system developed at the University of California, Berkeley, in the late 1970s and 1980s.

Think of it like this:

“Here’s some code. Do what you want with it. Just give us credit, don’t use our name for marketing, and include this license if you share it.”

That’s it. No strings attached.

What Can You Do With BSD-Licensed Code?

The short answer: Almost anything.

• Use it in personal or commercial projects
• Modify it to fit your needs
• Combine it with other software (even proprietary stuff)
• Redistribute it — with or without changes

There are no requirements to open-source your code, even if you’re using or modifying BSD-licensed code. This makes it very business-friendly.

The Different Flavors of BSD Licenses

There isn’t just one BSD License. Over time, it evolved into a few versions. Let’s go over the most common ones:

1. 4-Clause BSD License (Original)

• Includes the controversial advertising clause, which required anyone using the software in promotions to include a credit.
• No longer recommended — too cumbersome.

2. 3-Clause BSD License (Modified)

• Removes the advertising clause.
• You must:
  • Keep the copyright.
  • Do not use the original author’s name for endorsement.
  • Include the license in redistributed software.
• Widely used and accepted.

3. 2-Clause BSD License (Simplified or FreeBSD License)

• Even simpler: only two conditions.
  • Include the license.
  • Preserve copyright.
• Popular in modern BSD systems like FreeBSD and OpenBSD.

BSD vs. GPL: What’s the Difference?

Both the BSD License and the GNU General Public License (GPL) are open source, but they play by different rules.

Feature	BSD License	GPL License
Can use in closed-source?	Yes	No (must remain open)
Must share modifications?	No	Yes
Business friendly?	Very	Some limitations
Relicensing allowed?	Yes	Must stay GPL

BSD gives you freedom to do anything, while GPL ensures the code always remains free, even when modified.

Who Uses BSD-Licensed Code?

Lots of big names. Here are just a few examples:

• Apple (macOS has BSD roots)
• Microsoft
• Google
• Netflix
• Juniper Networks
• Sony
• FreeBSD, OpenBSD, and NetBSD (entire operating systems under BSD)

This license’s flexibility is why you’ll often find BSD-licensed components in both open source and proprietary products.

The Only Strings Attached

Even though BSD is pretty hands-off, there are still a few things you need to do:

1. Keep the license text with the code.
2. Give credit to the original authors.
3. Don’t use their names to promote your version.

That’s it. No obligation to open your code. No copyleft. No license police knocking on your door.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a license that gives you maximum freedom with minimum fuss, the BSD License is a solid choice. It’s ideal for developers who:

• Want their code to be used as widely as possible
• Don’t mind if it ends up in closed-source apps
• Value simplicity over strict rules

At the end of the day, BSD is about trust and generosity. You’re saying:

“Here’s something useful. Go build something amazing with it.”

The post What Is the BSD License? appeared on Hamradio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Product Reviews by 9M2PJU.

The Bigfoot APRS Messenger is a project developed by NA7Q, aimed at providing an easy-to-use APRS messaging system. It is associated with the Bigfoot Amateur Radio Club WA7BF and is actively being improved and maintained. While BUGS are guaranteed, the software is continuously refined as time permits. Currently, only a few known issues exist.

Getting Started

To install the necessary dependencies for Bigfoot APRS Messenger, simply run:

pip install aprslib requests flask flask-socketio socketio netifaces websocket-client

This will install all required libraries to ensure the software runs smoothly.

OSM Mapping Integration

Bigfoot APRS Messenger integrates OpenStreetMap (OSM) for visualizing APRS data. If the map does not open automatically at startup, users can manually access it via:

http://127.0.0.1:5000

Important Notes:

• The browser must remain open for stations to be plotted and tracked.
• Data is cached locally, ensuring APRS information is retained across reboots and browser restarts.

Repository and Files

The project is open-source and available on GitHub. You can find the repository here:

Bigfoot APRS Messenger GitHub Repository

Files Included:

• README.md – Documentation and setup instructions
• messenger-dark-nomap.exe – Dark theme version without map support (Windows)
• messenger-dark.py – Dark theme Python script
• messenger-light-nomap.exe – Light theme version without map support (Windows)
• messenger-light.py – Light theme Python script
• osm-map.zip – Map files for OSM integration

Ongoing Improvements

NA7Q is actively working on enhancing the software, fixing bugs, and adding new features. Since development is a continuous process, users are encouraged to provide feedback and report any issues they encounter.

Visit https://github.com/na7q/aprs-messenger

The post Bigfoot APRS Messenger by NA7Q appeared on Hamradio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Product Reviews by 9M2PJU.

In the world of music players, finding a feature-rich, high-performance application that respects user privacy can be a challenge. Many modern music players are either bloated with unnecessary features, locked behind paywalls, or designed with intrusive data collection practices. But what if there was a player that offered the best of all worlds—high-quality playback, extensive format support, powerful music library management, and complete privacy? Enter Strawberry Music Player—a robust, open-source audio player that is tailored for audiophiles and music lovers alike.

What is Strawberry Music Player?

Strawberry is an advanced music player and music collection organizer built on Qt. It’s a continuation of the Clementine Music Player, developed to provide a modern, feature-packed alternative while staying true to its open-source roots. Designed with audiophiles in mind, Strawberry brings an intuitive interface, lossless audio support, and seamless music management.

Whether you’re a casual listener or someone who meticulously curates a massive library of high-fidelity audio, Strawberry provides an exceptional listening experience without unnecessary distractions.

Why Choose Strawberry Over Other Music Players?

Strawberry is not just another music player; it is a carefully designed piece of software that provides everything you need in a sleek and efficient package. Here are some reasons why it stands out:

1. Comprehensive Audio Format Support

Unlike many commercial music players that require additional plugins or paid upgrades, Strawberry supports a vast range of audio formats right out of the box. This includes:

• MP3
• FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec)
• WAV
• APE (Monkey’s Audio)
• M4A (AAC/ALAC)
• Opus, WavPack, and more

This ensures that whether you’re playing standard compressed files or high-resolution lossless tracks, Strawberry delivers pristine audio quality without compromises.

2. Audiophile-Grade Sound with Advanced Playback Features

Strawberry is engineered to provide high-quality audio playback, supporting a range of advanced features such as:

• ReplayGain: Normalize volume levels across tracks.
• Equalizer & DSP Effects: Fine-tune your music to match your preferences.
• Gapless Playback: Enjoy uninterrupted playback between songs.
• Crossfade Support: Smooth transitions between tracks.
• Streaming Support: Play online radio and integrate with services like Tidal.

3. Powerful Music Library Management

Strawberry goes beyond simple music playback by offering a comprehensive music library management system. Features include:

• Tag Editing: Easily edit metadata and organize your collection.
• Album Art Downloader: Fetch high-quality artwork automatically.
• Smart & Dynamic Playlists: Create playlists that update dynamically based on your listening habits.
• Fast Library Scanning: Quickly import and manage large music collections.

4. Seamless Device Integration

Strawberry allows you to transfer and sync music between different devices effortlessly. It supports:

• USB Storage & External Devices
• Android Device Synchronization
• MTP & iPod Support
• Last.fm & Libre.fm Integration for scrobbling and tracking your listening habits.

5. Built for Privacy-Conscious Users

One of Strawberry’s core principles is privacy. Unlike many commercial music players, Strawberry does not collect or share user data. There are no telemetry trackers, no analytics reporting, and no invasive advertisements. Your music library remains entirely private, ensuring a safe and secure listening experience.

6. Cross-Platform Availability

Strawberry is available for multiple operating systems, making it a great choice regardless of the platform you use. You can install Strawberry on:

• Linux (Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, Arch, etc.)
• Windows (7, 8, 10, 11)
• macOS

How to Install Strawberry Music Player

Getting started with Strawberry is quick and easy. Follow the steps below to install it on your preferred operating system:

For Linux Users:

Most Linux distributions have Strawberry available in their official repositories. You can install it using:

• Debian/Ubuntu: sudo apt install strawberry
• Fedora: sudo dnf install strawberry
• Arch Linux: sudo pacman -S strawberry

For Windows Users:

1. Download the latest version from the official Strawberry website.
2. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Launch Strawberry and start enjoying your music collection.

For macOS Users:

1. Download the latest macOS package from the official site.
2. Install the application by dragging it into the Applications folder.
3. Open Strawberry and set up your music library.

Final Thoughts: The Music Player You’ve Been Looking For

Strawberry Music Player is a breath of fresh air in the world of digital music. It is lightweight, powerful, privacy-focused, and completely free. Whether you’re an audiophile looking for the best lossless playback or a casual listener who just wants a clean and efficient music player, Strawberry delivers in every way.

Its commitment to open-source principles ensures that the software remains user-driven, free of bloatware, and continuously improved by a passionate community of developers. With extensive format support, advanced music library management, and a smooth, polished interface, Strawberry Music Player is the ultimate solution for music lovers who demand the best.

So why settle for less? Download Strawberry Music Player today and elevate your music experience to new heights!

Visit https://www.strawberrymusicplayer.org/

If you’ve already tried Strawberry, let us know in the comments what you think about it!

The post Experience the Ultimate Audio Player: Strawberry Music Player appeared on Hamradio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Product Reviews by 9M2PJU.

In the world of web browsers, customization and privacy are two aspects that users value greatly. Mozilla Firefox, known for its flexibility and focus on user privacy, allows for extensive customization. One such customization project that has gained attention is Betterfox, a set of configuration tweaks designed to enhance the Firefox browsing experience. Let’s dive into what Betterfox is and how it can help you get the most out of Firefox.

What is Betterfox?

Betterfox is a collection of user.js configuration files aimed at optimizing Firefox for better performance, privacy, and security. Created by a GitHub user, yokoffing, Betterfox seeks to improve upon the default settings of Firefox by providing a more streamlined and secure browsing experience. The repository includes various configurations tailored to different user needs, ensuring that you can find a setup that works best for you.

Key Features of Betterfox

Performance Boost

One of the primary goals of Betterfox is to enhance Firefox’s performance. The configuration tweaks included in Betterfox are designed to reduce memory usage, improve page load times, and make the browser more responsive. By fine-tuning settings related to caching, rendering, and network connections, Betterfox helps you enjoy a faster and smoother browsing experience.

Enhanced Privacy

Privacy is a cornerstone of Firefox, and Betterfox takes it a step further. The configurations in Betterfox disable telemetry, which means that Firefox won’t send usage data back to Mozilla. Additionally, it enhances tracking protection by blocking more trackers and reducing the amount of data websites can collect about your browsing habits. These tweaks help ensure that your online activities remain private and secure.

Improved Security

Security is another critical aspect of Betterfox. The configurations include settings that strengthen Firefox’s built-in security features. For instance, Betterfox can disable WebRTC to prevent IP leaks, enforce HTTPS for secure connections, and block potentially dangerous content. These adjustments help protect you from various online threats and vulnerabilities.

Customizability

Betterfox is highly customizable, allowing you to pick and choose which settings you want to apply. The repository includes different user.js files, each tailored to specific needs such as “Performance,” “Privacy,” and “Secure.” You can mix and match these configurations to create a personalized setup that suits your preferences.

Getting Started with Betterfox

Using Betterfox is straightforward, even if you’re not a tech expert. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started:

1. Backup Your Current Configuration: Before making any changes, it’s a good idea to back up your existing Firefox configuration. This way, you can easily revert to your original settings if needed.
2. Download Betterfox: Head over to the Betterfox GitHub repository and download the user.js files that align with your goals (e.g., performance, privacy, security).
3. Apply the Configurations: Place the downloaded user.js file(s) in your Firefox profile folder. You can find your profile folder by typing about:support in the Firefox address bar and looking for the “Profile Folder” entry.
4. Restart Firefox: After copying the files, restart Firefox to apply the new settings.
5. Fine-tune Your Setup: If desired, you can further customize the user.js file to better fit your needs. The Betterfox repository provides detailed documentation on each setting, so you know exactly what each tweak does.

Conclusion

Betterfox is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to optimize their Firefox browser. By offering enhanced performance, privacy, and security, it allows users to tailor their browsing experience to their liking. Whether you’re a casual user or a power user, Betterfox provides a straightforward way to get the most out of Firefox. Give it a try and see how it can improve your web browsing!

For more details and to download Betterfox, visit the Betterfox GitHub repository. Happy browsing!

The post Betterfox: Enhancing Your Firefox Experience appeared on Hamradio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Product Reviews by 9M2PJU.

Introduction

Setting up your own Git server on Ubuntu offers numerous advantages over using hosted services like GitHub. It gives you full control over your repositories, ensures your data privacy, eliminates dependency on third-party services, and can be more cost-effective in the long run. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to set up your own Git server on Ubuntu, along with a detailed explanation of the benefits of using a self-hosted Git server.

Benefits of Hosting Your Own Git Server

• Data Privacy and Security:
• Complete control over your repositories ensures that sensitive data remains private and secure.
• You can implement your own security policies and measures to safeguard your code.
• Cost-Effectiveness:
• Avoid subscription fees associated with hosted services like GitHub, especially if you have multiple private repositories.
• Customization and Control:
• Tailor the server to meet your specific needs and workflows.
• Integrate with other tools and services within your infrastructure.
• No Dependency on Third-Party Services:
• Eliminate reliance on external services, ensuring your projects remain accessible regardless of external factors.
• Performance:
• Hosting your own server can result in faster access times and better performance, especially for large repositories.

Prerequisites

Ensure you have the following:

• A server running Ubuntu (18.04 or later).
• Root or sudo access to the server.
• Basic knowledge of Git and Linux command-line.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Own Git Server

Update Your Server

• Make sure your server is up to date:

  sudo apt update
  sudo apt upgrade

Install Git

• Install Git on your server:

  sudo apt install git

Create a Git User

• Create a dedicated user for managing your Git repositories:

  sudo adduser git

Follow the prompts to set a password and other details for the git user.

Configure SSH Access

• Set up SSH access for the git user to securely connect to your Git server:
• Generate SSH Keys (on your local machine): ssh-keygen -t rsa -b 4096 -C "your_email@example.com" This generates a new SSH key pair. Save it in the default location (usually ~/.ssh/id_rsa).
• Copy the Public Key to the Server:
  bash ssh-copy-id git@your_server_ip
  Alternatively, manually copy the contents of ~/.ssh/id_rsa.pub on your local machine to ~/.ssh/authorized_keys on the server for the git user.

Set Up a Bare Repository

• A bare repository is a repository that doesn’t have a working directory. It’s used to share your code with others:
• Switch to the Git User: sudo su - git
• Create a Directory for Repositories: mkdir -p ~/repos/myproject.git cd ~/repos/myproject.git
• Initialize the Bare Repository:
  bash git init --bare

Set Up Repository Access

• Ensure that the git user has the appropriate permissions to manage the repository:
• Set the Correct Permissions:
  bash sudo chown -R git:git /home/git/repos/myproject.git

Clone and Use the Repository

• Now that your Git server is set up, you can clone the repository and start using it:
• Clone the Repository (from your local machine): git clone git@your_server_ip:/home/git/repos/myproject.git
• Add Files and Commit:
  bash cd myproject echo "# My Project" >> README.md git add README.md git commit -m "Initial commit" git push origin master

Advanced Configuration (Optional)

• For more advanced setups, you might want to:
• Set Up Git Web Interfaces: Tools like GitLab or Gitea provide web interfaces for managing repositories, user access, and more.
• Implement CI/CD Pipelines: Integrate continuous integration and deployment pipelines using tools like Jenkins or GitLab CI.
• Backup Your Repositories: Regularly back up your repositories to prevent data loss.

Conclusion

Hosting your own Git server on Ubuntu provides enhanced privacy, security, and control over your code repositories. By following this guide, you can set up a Git server tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that your projects are managed securely and efficiently. Whether for personal projects or collaborative development within a team, a self-hosted Git server is a powerful solution that offers numerous benefits over traditional hosted services like GitHub.

The post How to Set Up Your Own Git Server on Ubuntu appeared on Hamradio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Product Reviews by 9M2PJU.