Even though APRS supports an icon indicating the type of station, a set of standards have been devised that links the SSID (the number part of the callsign) with the ORIGIN of the beacon. These standards apply globally.
For example, VK3EFG has a TinyTrack setup with the icon as a CAR. When we see this station on the map we know that it is a car, however how does the beacon get into the network? Using the standard SSID table below, we could tell this information easily by looking at the callsign:
- VK3EFG-9 would indicate a standard VHF mobile setup.
- VK3EFG-6 would indicate that the station is sending APRS via the ARISS satellites
- VK3EFG-15 would indicate that the station is operating HF APRS.
- VK3EFG-7 would indicate that the station is using a Kenwood D7 Handheld, and therefore LOW power.
Here are those common defaults:
| -0 (No SSID) | Home Station |
| -1 | Digipeater, or Home Station running a Fill-In Digi, |
| -2 | Digipeater [#2] on 70CM |
| -3 | Digipeater [#3] |
| -4 | HF to VHF Gateway |
| -5 | IGate (Dedicated system, not home station) |
| -6 | Operation via Satellite |
| -7 | Kenwood D7 Handheld |
| -8 | Secondary Mobile usage (also Maritime vessels) (VHF / UHF) |
| -9 | Mobiles (VHF / UHF) |
| -10 | Operation via Internet Only (No RF capability) |
| -11 | is for APRStouch-tone users (also high altitude balloons) |
| -12 | Portable Units such as Laptops, Camp Sites etc |
| -13 | |
| -14 | Interstate Truckers |
| -15 | Operation via HF |
As always, these are only a recommendation, however following the convention reduces surprises.