VARA & VARAC: Precision Digital HF
Explore the power of VARA and VARAC for efficient, low-bandwidth HF communication. This section covers:
- VARA Setup & Optimization: Audio chain tuning, latency trimming, and SNR targeting for peak throughput.
- VARAC for Conversational QSOs: Real-time keyboarding with adaptive speed control and beaconing strategies.
- Integration with BPQ32: Node linking, forwarding routines, and VARA port configuration.
- Winlink via VARA HF: Email over HF with fallback logic and manual routing.
- Field-Tested Configs: Proven INI tweaks, watchdog timers, and recovery routines.
- Human-Centric Adjustments: Audio shaping for older rigs, comfort-level TX timings, and station ergonomics.
BPQ32 Node Operations
Configure and manage your HF digital node with BPQ32. This section covers:
- Node Setup: Port definitions, routing tables, and call sign logic.
- VARA & VARAC Integration: Seamless linking with digital modes and beaconing routines.
- Forwarding Rules: Time-based, path-based, and priority-driven message handling.
- Mail & Chat Services: Local mailbox access, real-time chat, and remote sysop tools.
- Monitoring & Logging: Connection stats, error tracking, and watchdog alerts.
- Resilience Tuning: Manual overrides, fallback paths, and recovery after link loss.
Winlink over HF: Resilient Messaging
Use Winlink to send and receive email over HF radio, even when the internet is down. This section includes:
- VARA HF Transport: Fast, efficient digital mode for Winlink sessions with adaptive speed control.
- Station Setup: Transceiver interfacing, audio level calibration, and watchdog timers.
- Routing Logic: Manual path selection, fallback nodes, and propagation-aware retries.
- Offline Operation: Message queuing, local archiving, and sync routines for disconnected use.
- BPQ32 Integration: Node forwarding, mailbox access, and VARA port configuration.
- Field-Tested Templates: ICS forms, position reports, and custom message headers.
NinoTNC N9600A: Smart USB TNC
A modern, multi-bitrate USB KISS TNC designed by Nino KK4HEJ for serious packet work. This section includes:
- Modes & Modulation: AX.25 and IL2P support with BPSK, QPSK, GFSK, and 4FSK across HF and VHF.
- USB Interface: 57600 baud serial link via MCP2221, compatible with Windows, Linux, and Pi.
- Firmware & Bootloader: Easy reflashing with Python tools; stable versions like v4.06 recommended.
- TX/RX Tuning: Pot-based TXDELAY, SDR-based TXDEV, and scope loop for RXA calibration.
- Beaconing & ID: Autonomous station ID and mode beaconing for network presence.
- Build & Community: Thru-hole kits, UK group buys, and active support via TARPN and OARC.