Choosing Radios and TNCs for Winlink 2000 Packet

The best choice in a radio for use on VHF/UHF packet is one with a data port. Ideally, it is nice to have the receive and transmit audio within the same connector. If no data port, then: Is the receive audio available at the microphone connector? If the receive audio exists in either of those places, the level is fixed and is not affected by the volume control or the squelch control. But what this means is that the TNC must have DCD capability meaning it can operate with open squelch. If fixed receive audio is not available, then the only choice is to take it from the speaker or the speaker jack. This means adjusting the volume control for the proper level.

If you don't have communications or serial port on your computer, you will need to obtain a USB-to-Serial adapter. Most will work but I guess it's sort of like buyer beware until proven satisfactory for the application. You might need to load some software for the adapter to work properly.

A TNC is needed for VHF packet. To go beyond Airmail, you will need the AGW Packet Engine. It is a software engine that controls many different types of TNCs. If you don't have a TNC, and need to purchase one, then install the freeware AGWPE and take a look at the list of TNCs it supports. The list within AGWPE is a good way to learn what to look for and to buy. AGWPE supports soundcard operation at 1200 baud. I use it on my notebook computer.

The TNC connects to the computer's serial port or the USB-to-Serial adapter with a RS-232 serial cable. Make sure you buy the correct gender for each end. Most computer serial ports and USB-to-Serial adapters use a DB-9 Male connector. Buy a DB-9 Female to mate with it; do the same check on the TNC and buy the opposite gender to mate with it.

An interface cable is needed between the TNC and the radio. Most are easy enough to make yourself. You need to know is what each connector pin is for. Manufactured cables are available from multiple sources on the Internet.

Airmail works work only certain TNCs. The list is in the setup menu within Airmail. And, sometimes Airmail can be tricked to make a TNC work by calling it by a different model number by the same manufacturer found in the supported list

Some of the older TNCs might need a firmware upgrade to run packet for Winlink2000. Typically, the upgrade is in the range of $50 to $75. All of the older TNCs will run 1200 baud packet. The newer ones might be able to operate at 9600 baud. But be careful, unless specially designed for 9600 baud, only some VHF/UHF FM radios meant for voice operation can operate at that speed. Know what you have! Beware of a VHF/UHF transceiver with a built-in TASCO TNC - it will not work with Winlink2000 Email. The TASCO TNC is designed for APRS (automatic position reporting system) use. These transceivers need to use an external TNC for Winlink2000.