Introduction to Packet in Connecticut

Chuck Rexroad AB1CR

Betsey Doane K1EIC

Overall Agenda

Session 1 – Introduction to Packet

Session 2 – Introduction to Packet Networks

Session 3 – Using the Flexnet network and FBB Bulletin Boards

Session 4 – Proper Setup and Operation of Your Packet Station

Session 4: Proper Setup and Operation of Your Packet Station

Block Diagram of a User Packet Station

To packet system “user” frequency

1200 bps packet

How Packet TNC Owner’s Manual Cable from Rig to TNC

Build or Buy? MFJ and others make cables for most rigs and TNCs

Follow these startup steps: Working Radio Working Antenna Working Computer Computer talks to TNC okay Listen to APRS (144.39) Try to connect to local Node/BBS

What about Sound Card packet? It works, but used TNCs are cheap and easier to use.

When to use Packet? As often as possible for NTS and

familiarization. Communication Emergencies. When is packet NTS and when is it ARES?

Does it matter? ARES is mostly local and tactical when immediate

communications are needed. NTS is long-haul. ARES can generate formal message traffic if

necessary. NTS packet operators may be asked come into

the field to support ARES if necessary.

What about the Mailbox built into my TNC? We recommend you use the FBB Bulletin

Boards. These will take a message for you anytime from anywhere, regardless of whether your home station is up on packet at the time.

What About Other Digital Modes?

There are numerous other digital modes that have their place in emergency communications: APRS – Good for locating vehicles/people in disaster areas.

Good for short messages where 100% accuracy is not needed. WinLink “Classic” – in use today by NTS. Good for long haul. WinLink 2000 – in early stages PSK31 – Great for HF communications where 100% accuracy

is not needed. AMTOR/PACTOR – Used primarily in WinLink classic. Could

be used between two HF stations (such as Connecticut OEM and FEMA perhaps)

802.11b – in early stages

What Should I do Now? Get on Packet! Use the CT Packet Quick Start Guide. Send messages to other packet operators. Get familiar with current Packet systems! Send formal traffic to your DEC. Stay on Packet!

Log on frequently. Look for bulletins, packet messages to you, reply to messages sent to you, etc.

Enjoy packet! It is still the pre-eminent mode of digital communications for

local emergency communications and will likely remain a major portion of emergency communications for the foreseeable future.

Soundcard Interfaces

The advantages of rig blaster over a TNC: Much cheaper Can do many more modes (including EchoLink and

the like) Can do modes no one has thought of yet Very easy to work with.  (I think it is easier than a

TNC.) MixW2 is a great program for about $50 that does

packet, PSK (both styles) and too many other modes for me to remember.  That one program is all I use with my rigblaster.  Get the levels right once and just go to it.

References / Web Sites for More Information

Web Sites APRS - http://www.tapr.org/tapr/html/gpsf.html ARES – http://www.arrl.org CT ARES – http://www.ctares.org Packet Radio – http://www.tapr.org RigBlaster – http://www.westmountainradio.com (PowerPole

power connectors, too.) WinLink – http://www.winlink.orgBooks ARRL: APRS – Tracks, Maps, and Mobiles by Stan Horzepa,

WA1LOU ARRL: HF Digital Handbook by Steve Ford, WB8IMY ARRL: Your Packet Companion by Steve Ford, WB8IMY

Web Sites for More Information on Packet CablesWeb Sites with Information to Build Cables http://www.packetradio.com/wiring.htm http://www.packetradio.com/MICimages.html

Web Sites with Information to Buy Cables http://www.mfjenterprises.com/products.php?

catid=23

Questions and Responses