Reconnecting Packet Radio
One RF Station At A Time
Join The Packet Radio RF Forwarding Network Today
NEW FEATURE
Thank you to Tony K1AJD for the addition of this very cool live interactive TPRFN network map. Click link below. (note: the web certificate needs updated but it is safe to procede)
Along with our other Partners, we are excited to announce our newest one!
We were approached yesterday by the Director of AuxCommUSA (Billy WX0NET), who was inquiring about forging apartnership with TPRFN, AuxCommUSA feels that our network fits directly with its promotion of off-the-grid RF style communications.
We received word today that the AuxCommUSA, BOD fully endorsed the partnership. The mutual goal is for TPRFN to provide RF paths for AuxCommUSA mission for both Packet Radio and Winlink and for AuxCommUSAto promote the TPRFN Network with its members and encourage them to participate by possibly adding additional Hub Stations to the network. And for both networks to continue to promote Amateur Radio and its rolein EMCOMM Services.
We are happy to welcome AuxCommUSA!
TPRFN is also working on adding some additional RF services soon. Keep an eye on the website as things continueto develop.
We have a dirrect RF link into the DTN Hub, thank you to Jim KY2D and too RRI for approving any properly formatted NTS traffic into their network. Below is the format requested:
Please use the Radiogram form created by David KN4LQN as it works perfectly at: http://vden.org/pktnet/
Create an ST message it must be ST for this to work. address it as follows.
To: ST zipcode@NTS** (2 letter state)
Subject: Town & Callsign
Message Text: Copy & Paste you Radiogram form in the message field.
Why Packet Radio (Again/Still)?
Packet Radio is particularly effective in digital emergency communications (emcomm) for several key reasons:
1. Reliability and Robustness
- Simple Infrastructure: Packet Radio relies on relatively simple hardware, including radios and modems, and can operate without an extensive network infrastructure. This makes it highly reliable in disaster situations where traditional communication networks may be down.
- Error Correction: The protocol used in Packet Radio includes error detection and correction, which ensures that data can be accurately transmitted even in poor signal conditions, which are common in emergency scenarios.
2. Efficient Use of Bandwidth
- Low Bandwidth Requirements: Packet Radio is optimized for low bandwidth, which is crucial in emergency situations where spectrum availability might be limited. This efficiency allows more users to share the same frequency without overwhelming the system.
3. Interoperability
- Compatibility with Multiple Systems: Packet Radio can interface with other digital systems, including email, SMS, and internet gateways. This flexibility is vital for emergency communications where different organizations and technologies must work together seamlessly.
- Standard Protocols: It uses standardized protocols like AX.25, ensuring that equipment from different manufacturers can communicate, which is essential when coordinating between various emergency response teams.
4. Network Flexibility
- Ad-Hoc Networking: Packet Radio networks can be set up quickly and can operate in both peer-to-peer and digipeater modes, allowing for flexible network topologies. This adaptability is critical in rapidly changing disaster environments.
- Store-and-Forward: Packet Radio systems can store and forward messages, which is useful when direct communication is not possible due to obstacles or distance, ensuring that messages can still reach their destination.
5. Power Efficiency
- Low Power Operation: Packet Radio systems typically require less power than other communication systems, making them suitable for use in situations where power sources are limited, such as during natural disasters or in remote locations.
6. Proven Technology
- Long Track Record: Packet Radio has been used in emcomm for decades, and its reliability has been proven in numerous emergency situations. This history gives confidence to operators and emergency planners in its effectiveness.
These features make Packet Radio an essential tool in the toolbox for digital emergency communications, providing a reliable, flexible, and efficient means of communication when other systems may fail.
Why Are We Using VARA HF?
VARA HF is a high-frequency (HF) digital modem that is widely used in amateur radio for transmitting data over long distances. VARA HF adds efficiency to packet radio primarily through its advanced modulation and error correction techniques. Here's how it enhances efficiency:
- High Data Rates: VARA HF supports higher data rates compared to traditional packet radio protocols like AX.25. This is achieved through more efficient modulation schemes, which allow more bits to be transmitted per second. This means data can be sent faster, reducing the time on air and the probability of collisions on a busy channel.
- Adaptive Modulation: VARA HF dynamically adjusts the modulation scheme based on the quality of the communication link. In good conditions, it uses higher-order modulations to increase the data rate. In poor conditions, it falls back to more robust but slower modulations. This adaptability ensures that the communication remains as efficient as possible under varying conditions.
- Error Correction: VARA HF employs forward error correction (FEC), which allows the receiver to correct certain errors without needing retransmissions. This reduces the need for ACK/NACK handshaking and the number of retransmissions, making the overall communication process more efficient.
- Low Latency: VARA HF minimizes latency by using efficient framing and reduced overhead in the transmission process. This is particularly important in interactive applications where response time is critical.
- Robustness to Noise: The protocol is designed to work well even in noisy environments, which are common in HF communications. By being able to maintain a link in less-than-ideal conditions, VARA HF ensures that data is transmitted effectively without requiring excessive retransmissions, which would otherwise decrease efficiency.
- Efficient Use of Bandwidth: VARA HF is designed to make efficient use of the available HF spectrum, allowing more data to be transmitted in a given amount of bandwidth. This is important in HF communication, where bandwidth is often limited.
By combining these advanced features, VARA HF significantly improves the efficiency of packet radio communications, particularly in challenging HF environments where traditional protocols might struggle.
•NVIS communication involves using antenna configurations and frequencies that allow radio signals to be sent straight up into the ionosphere and then reflected back down to cover a circular area with a radius of approximately 20 miles to 400 miles. This method is often used for local and regional communication where line-of-sight or longer-distance propagation is less effective.
•NVIS communication is particularly useful for emergency and disaster communications where traditional long-distance transmissions may be hindered.
A Hub Station is dedicated full time
VARA HF or ARDOP forwarding station.
This station needs to function within the
NVIS framework and have the capability of
both 40 & 80 meters.
The main focus on message forwarding is:
@USA Bulletins
@NOAM Bulletins
PERSONAL Messages
NTS Messages
We can also pass traffic from the following platforms:
BPQ, JNOS, and (X)Net/Flexnet. The heart of the network is still AX25, we just leverage VARA & ARDOP to transport it.
Anyone interested in becoming a Hub Station please
fill out the “Contact” form at the bottom of this site!?
A Polling Station (should be) a station that provides local BBS access or forwarding.
Hub Stations do not automatically forward to Polling Stations these stations pull down or upload messages to a Hub within NVIS range whenever possible.
A Polling Stations may or may not be a full time dedicated station on the the network and should limit their polling to only: USA.NOAM
If there is any personal messages for the Polling Station it should be delivered during the poll. If you have addition end users please let us know their calls using the “Contact” form on this site. We can make sure any Personal messages for them would be delivered as well.
If you need additional info about Polling Station please fill out the “Contact” form at the bottom of the site.
One of the things that both VARA HF & ARDOP will not
do is provide NET/ROM support. Since the forwarding
network is really not for end-user access, not having
NET/ROM is not a problem.
Due to our NVIS structure all Hub Station connections
are manually scripted. We are also using HA routing to
move traffing in the proper directions.
TPRFN Features
Frequencies
Dial 7.103.2, USB, 1500, BW500, Times 1300 - 0159 UTC Dial 3.596, USB, 1500, BW500, Times 0200 - 1259 UTC User Port (not for forwarding!) Dial 14.105, LSB, 1700, 300bd AX25 Connection: N3MEL-7 Node / N3MEL-2 BBS
Hub Station Callsigns
ME - W1DTX-4 CT - K1AJD-7 CNY - KP3FT-4 EPA - N3MEL-2 DE - KA3VSP-1 VA - KN4LQN-2 FL - KD4WLE-14 WI - K5DAT-5
Polling Stations
ME - KY2D (NTS ONLY) NY - K1YMI PA - NY3J MD - N3HYM VA - KD2HZG KT - K7EK VA - N4SD-11
Modems
VARA HF & ARDOP
VARA HF Modem Info
The VARA HF modem is notable for several key features: 1. High Data Rates: It offers significantly higher data rates compared to traditional HF modems, making it suitable for applications requiring faster data transmission. 2. Robust Performance: It provides reliable communication even under challenging conditions, such as poor signal quality or high noise environments, which is critical for HF radio operations. 3. Ease of Use: The modem is designed to be user-friendly, with straightforward setup and operation, making it accessible to both novice and experienced users. 4. Compatibility: VARA HF modem is compatible with various software applications and can be integrated into existing communication systems, enhancing its versatility. 5. Adaptive Technology: It uses adaptive technology to optimize performance based on real-time conditions, ensuring efficient and effective communication. 6. Error Correction: The modem incorporates robust error correction protocols, reducing the likelihood of data loss or corruption during transmission. These features make the VARA HF modem a valuable tool for applications such as emergency communication, remote field operations, and amateur radio.
ARDOP Modem
The ARDOP (Amateur Radio Digital Open Protocol) modem is a digital communication protocol designed for amateur radio use. It facilitates data transmission over radio frequencies, allowing for various types of digital communication, such as text messaging and data file transfers. ARDOP is known for its robustness and efficiency, providing reliable performance even under poor signal conditions. It uses Forward Error Correction (FEC) and Automatic Repeat Request (ARQ) to ensure data integrity and can operate on HF, VHF, and UHF bands. The protocol is open-source and has been integrated into various software applications for amateur radio operators.
HTML to Text Packet Form
ICS-213 Form
Learn MoreRadiogram Form
Learn MoreNet Check-in Form
Learn MoreBulletin Form
Learn MoreField Situation Form
Learn MoreSevere Wx Form
Learn MoreNetwork How To
Network Partners
Virginia Digital Emergency Network (VDEN)
The VDEN website (https://vden.org) includes information about the Central Virginia BBSes, how to send personal mail and bulletins, and methods for connecting over RF (Packet / Vara via Terminal / Winlink / Outpost).
Learn MoreDelaware Packet Network (DEPN)
The Delaware Packet Network (DEPN) objective is to promote and document the development of Community-Based RF-Linked Amateur Radio AX.25 and VARA Terrestrial Packet Network within the State of Delaware and surrounding areas.
Learn MoreEastnet Packet Radio
EastNet Packet is a diversified group of amateur radio operators that enjoy operating various digital modes and systems. While the focus is maintaining and expanding the EastNet Packet network, all amateurs are invited to experiment, contribute, ask questions, solve problems and have fun!
Learn MoreEMCOMM Partners
Radio Relay International
RRI Digital Traffic Network (DTN) would be happy to accept formal radiogram traffic from anyone in the TPRFN network. However, the DTN is not intended for bulletin or personal messages. To start, message entry to the DTN can be through my station and more entry points can be added if needed. Messages need to follow the DTN addressing format of zip@NTSxx where zip is the zip code and xx is the state or province of the addressee.
Learn MoreAuxComm USA
AuxComm USA is the citizen side of emergency communications. Unlike the government AuxComm, we are truly all inclusive in our membership and for those we support. Our members train to fit seamlessly in the NIMS and ICS systems. Additionally, we have the capability to reach out to responders for those who have lost communication lifelines and are in need of assistance.
Learn MorePacket Radio Bulletin Net (PKTNET)
Packet Radio's monthly bulletin net.. Net usually runs from the 3rd Sunday of the month and goes for one week. Use the Learn More button below to download the current html to text packet radio form. SEE SITE CALENDAR FOR NET SCHEDULE.
PR Digital
Puerto Rico Digital Operator Group Services
KP4DOG, your gateway to the most robust and reliable Emergency Communications (EMCOMM) Ham Radio Frequency network in Puerto Rico. At KP4DOG, we take pride in being the first dedicated EMCOMM network on the island, committed to ensuring seamless communication during emergencies and natural disasters.
Learn MoreJoin The TPRFN Groups.io
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