Inspired by my earlier Mini Mobile Dashboard project, I created a new, simple mobile dashboard that lets you see at a glance who is currently transmitting on our 3109312 talkgroup and which network they are using to connect. This time, however, I took a slightly different approach. The previous solution retrieved data directly from the hotspot. The new dashboard gets all its information directly from the server, so there is no longer any need to connect to your own hotspot. This means you can use it even when communicating through a repeater. All you need is your phone to see who is currently talking on the group.
The dashboard now supports four networks: FM Poland, SQLink, FM261, and AllStarLink. The main screen displays a large, pulsing callsign of the station currently transmitting, the network being used, and the duration of the transmission. When the talkgroup is quiet, the dashboard continues to display the last station that transmitted, including when the transmission ended and how long it lasted.
Additional features include a list of the last ten transmitting stations, light and dark modes, and the ability to switch between Polish and English.
The interface was designed with a smartphone in mind, one that could be mounted in a vehicle and used as an additional dashboard. I also paid attention to the color scheme, choosing colors that complement Google Maps in Android Auto. The goal was to make the display blend in with other in-car screens without being too bright or distracting during nighttime driving.
Another new feature is the ability to install a pseudo-app. I created a small installation script that adds a shortcut to the dashboard on your phone or computer. Once installed, the dashboard opens in its own dedicated window without the usual browser interface, such as the address bar and tabs. This makes it look and behave much like a regular application while providing quick access whenever you need it. The installation button is located at the bottom of the dashboard screen.
The entire project runs as a regular website – no traditional app stores installation and no personal hotspot connection required. The dashboard is available to everyone, and its source code is open.
Dashboard: https://group312chicago.org/mobile.html
I invite everyone to give it a try during your conversations on our talkgroup, regardless of whether you are connected through FM Poland, SQLink, FM261, or AllStarLink.
73 de W9GIL