An introduction to packet radio.

By David Fleming -- KG6SQU

tnc

The Need for Packet Radio

Why would the BEARS want to have packet radio? Of what use would it be for what we do? The main reason packet radio is a good idea is that it is totally independent of normal communications. In a major emergency, as we might have for a sizable earthquake, the first thing "to go" will be the internet and cell phones. Next it is likely that we will lose standard "land line" (non-cellular) phones, along with some part of the power grid.

A TNC and a radio connected to a battery will allow communications to continue until some of the other communications modes are functioning again. It will help us to talk to other, but also help to support hospitals and others that need to keep clear lines of communications open. It will allow us to communicate within the city and state, but out of state as well. It will also tell us if other areas are having problems of a similar type so we may help them.

What is the BEARS' capability now

  • Some level of expertise in operating packet radio
  • A BEARS' TNC is already set up and running packet radio on 145.03 MHz
  • The BEARS's packet radio is set up to run 24/7 in the Radio Room at the EOC
  • All San Fernando Valley NTS traffic (zip codes 91000 - 92000) is already being forwarded to the BEARS's TNC so that emergency traffic can be handled during an emergency
  • This web page contains information on setting up and using up packet radio, as well as a CVD Packet Radio Response Plan
  • Since the BEARS's packet radio is not connected to emergency battery backup at this time, another packet radio station at another location (KG6SQU-1) is setup to take over should the power fail at the EOC. It is set up exactly as the BEARS packet radio is, but is on backup battery power and a trickle charger. There is a dedicated radio, power, and antenna set up specifically for this packet radio station.
  • The packet radio mailboxes currently set up by BEARS' members at 145.030 MHz are KG6VGG-1, KG6QU-1, KE6EQJ-1 and K6MMC-1.

What do the BEARS' still need to do

  • The BEARS's packet radio needs to be set up to be using either a combination high amp hour deep cycle battery and charger or be connected to an "instant on" backup generator
  • There needs to be some level of training on using packet radio for general bulletin board activities
  • There needs to be some level of training on using packet radio for NTS message handling
  • More packet systems need to be set up either by the BEARS or individuals, or a combination of these two
  • The BEARS need to practice using packet radio for simulated emergencies
  • Some advanced techniques of file transfer, routing, and running a full service BBS needs to be thoroughly explored
Setting up a Packet Radio System - Introduction
Setting up a Packet Radio System - Part 1
Setting up a Packet Radio System - Part 2
Setting up a Packet Radio System - Part 3
The CDV Packet Radio Plan

David Fleming is the BEARS' packet radio sysop and the contact for issues relating to packet radio!

For more Packet Radio information and/or help contact David Fleming at the following e-mail:

BEARS-Packet@BurbankCDV.org