Packet RadioAlternatives to Windows for packetThe serious alternatives to Windows for packet are:
Linux This is for either the Linux enthusiast or a "sysop" setting up a Repeater or Server Node. If you arn't using Linux already and just want to connect to Packet, don't consider it. Linux has its own merits, but this isn't the place to argue "for" or "against". PDAs These are basically either Palm OS based, Windows (CE and Pocket PC) or Symbian (Nokia Communicator etc). Other PDAs are not usually suitable. "Sound Card" packet is possible but unlikely to be supported. Instead there are two choices, a KISS modem such as TNCX (optionally with USB interface as well as standard Serial port), or a handheld or mobile rig not with just a "Data" port (usually just audio), but a actual built in TNC with KISS mode. The Kenwood TH-D7E at £319 has a built in KISS TNC. But a "cased" serial TNCX is from $50 and the Kenwood TH-G71E is "only" £199. The TNCX has a USB option which is needed for later Palm Pilots and most Pocket PCs (Windows CE 3.0), but the £319 TH-D7E is serial only and needs a special cable. The TNC-X can in fact connect ANY handheld rig to any USB or Serial PDA that can have KISS based packet software installed. APRS is the commonest application, but "keyboard" QSO, BBS and on some PDAs even TCP/IP based Email/Web/FTP and News is possible. Mac The Mac is not the easiest platform for available Amateur software. Some Windows applications may work on the Soft PC emulator available. Native packet software is beleived to exist, but I can't find any links! Most software for Radio is for Windows and Linux, with Windows having the edge in ease of use and broad range. Linux scores better for unattended Digipeater and Server sites. DOS DOS is not any longer a serious contender for users connecting to Packet. It is of course possible, especially for basic text only QSO and a real TNC on a serial port. |