Buck Rogers K4ABT User manual

The Packet Radio “2 N 1”Handbook by Buck Rogers K4ABT
Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” Section 2;The X1J4 System Node Operator’s (SNO) Handbook
Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 0
Two Packet Radio Books In One Cover
Section I
A Primerfor the
Packet Radio
BEGINNER
Section IISection II
A HANDBOOK for the ADVANCED
Packet Radio
System Node Operator
by
Buck RogersBuck Rogers K4ABT
E-Mail [email protected] PacketRadio Editor, CQ Magazine
PacketRadio Networking
http://www.
packetradio.com

Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 2
About The Author
(Semper Fidelis)
Proud to claim the title of former United States Marine, the Corps’ own motto,
Semper Fidelis, serves as a good description of G. E. “Buck” Rogers’ own attitude
toward family, work, and humanitarian service… ”always faithful.” Married to Jean
Ann (Dyson) Rogers for over 41 years, Buck and Jean Ann (WB4EDZ) have two children,
Glynn E. Jr.(WB4RHO), and Janice Evelyn (Rogers) Mata, and six grandchildren.
In addition to spending time with his family Buck provides technical support and
inspiration for the Southeastern Emergency Digital Association Networks (SEDAN), a
humanitarian organization comprised of licensed radio amateurs dedicated to helping
others in times of disaster. In fact, it was Buck’s youthful interest in Ham radio
that eventually led to his present career position as Senior Systems Engineer for
Ericsson Communications.
Buck is a recognized world-class expert in the field of RF communications,
having been instrumental in the design and implementation of the U.S. Air Force
Local Area Network, Wide Area Network, and Global Information Networks (LAN, WAN &
GIN). His credentials in other fields of RF communications also include terrestrial
microwave systems design, television and radio broadcast station design, and Public
Service Specialized Communications systems design. His communications consulting
travels have taken him throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and other
countries around the world.
Buck, K4ABT, is highly respected in the Amateur Radio community both as a
pioneer of Packet Radio and noted author, having published twelve books and written
many feature articles for the leading Amateur radio, commercial and trade
publications. He is Packet Radio Editor of CQ MAGAZINECQ MAGAZINE and every month authors the
“PACKET USERS NOTEBOOKPACKET USERS NOTEBOOK,” a popular column in CQ MAGAZINECQ MAGAZINE distributed world-wide
and translated into several languages.
Buck is a licensed radio Amateur for over 50 years and holds the “lifetime”
Commercial FCC First Class license, now called the General Class Commercial license.
He conducts forums and seminars on packet radio and digital communications, and is
the author of twelve books, some of which include:
•Packet Radio Basics: The Beginners Guidebook
•Packet Radio X1J4 System Node Operator’s Handbook
•Packet Radio Operator’s Handbook (The PRO )
•Packet Radio Operators Manual (PROM, from CQ Publications)
•Packet Radio: General Information Handbook
•The Advanced Packet Radio Handbook
Buck also grows the world’s best backyard tomatoes.
Richard Card, KD4JKX
President, Southeastern Emergency Digital Association NetworksSoutheastern Emergency Digital Association Networks (SEDANSEDAN)
July 1999
Reproduction or use, without express permission, of editorial or pictorial content, in any manner, is prohibited.
While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this handbook, the author and publisher assume no
responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the
information contained herein.
Copyright(c) 1992, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998-99

Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 3
All rights reserved
The information in this document has been checked and is believed to be entirely reliable. However, no
responsibility is assumed for inaccuracies. Portions of this handbook are excerpted, with permission, from the X1J4
original documents by X-1J4 author Dave Roberts and Fiona and Neville Pattison.
Credits & trademarks,  & ©
•APPLE & Apple Macintosh trademarks of Apple computers Inc.
•ERICSSON are © &  of ERICSSON Communications & ERICSSON Private Radio Systems
•EDACS is trademark of ERICSSON, Inc,.
•IBM and IBM PC are trademarks of International Business Machines.
•MFJ is a trademark  of MFJ ENTERPRISES INCENTERPRISES INC
•MULTICOM and MultiCom for Windows is of MFJ ENTERPRISES INCENTERPRISES INC
•NETROM is  & © of Software 2000
•TheNET is © Nord><Link Packet Group of Germany
•TAPR Tucson Amateur Packet Radio is a non-profit research group dedicated to amateur digital
communications.
•TRS-80 and CoCo are  of Tandy/Radio Shack Corp.
•Windows, Windows 95, Windows NTand MS/DOS are © of Microsoft Inc,.
•X1J-4 is the latest version of theNet and is © title applied by Dave Roberts G8KBB.
This handbook is dedicated to the people I love, and to the
hobby and profession that I enjoy.
G.E.Rogers Sr
“Buck”Buck” K4ABT

Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 4
TABLE of CONTENTS
About the Author Page 2
Credits and Trademarks Page 3
An Introduction to PACKET RADIO Page 5
Section I; The PACKET RADIO BEGINNER’S GUIDEBOOK
CHAPTER 1Packet Radio “The Easy Way !”Page 6
“BUXTERM”… a Packet terminal program and it’s FREE!Page 7
And… there’s more information at:….. www.PacketRadio.com
A PacketRadio FREQUENCY GUIDE Page 9
CHAPTER 2LEARNING ABOUT PACKET CONTROLLERS Page 10
CHAPTER 3ANTENNAS FOR PACKETRADIO Page 12
CHAPTER 4USING THE PACKET BBS: Page 15
Section II; The X-1J4 System Node Operator’s HANDBOOK
Chapter 5 Section II WHAT IS A PACKET NODE? Page 18
Chapter 6 Section II - FEATURES OF THE X-1J4+ NODE Page 19
Defining a few of the X-1J4 features Page 20
Chapter 7 Section II Understanding theNET X-1J 4 Node Page 22
Chapter 8 Section II Using the advanced features of the X1J4 Node Page 25
Chapter 9 Section II Constructing, Installing, and Configuring TheNET X1J/4 NODES Page 27
Chapter 10 Section II DUAL AND MULTI-FREQUENCY NODE OPERATION: Page 28
Chapter 11 Section II MOST FREQUENTLY USED SysOp & User COMMANDS: Page 30
Chapter 12 Section II SYSOP VALIDATION: (HANDLING THE PASSWORD) Page 31
CORRECTING MISTAKES IN TEXT ENTRIES to X-1J4+ Page 31
Chapter 13 Section II HOST MODE: Page 32
Chapter 14 Section II ROUTE QUALITY ANALYSIS: Page 34
Chapter 15 Section II DIGIPEATING AND HOST INTERFACE Page 35
Chapter 16 Section II GATEWAY INTERFACING & SETUP: Page 36
Chapter 17 Section II X-1J4+ PARAMETERS; DEFAULTS & RANGES Page 39
TheNET PARAMETERS; EXPLANATIONS Page 40
Chapter 18 Section II X1J4+ MODE COMMANDS AND DEFINITIONS Page 43
APPENDIX "A" FINAL NODE “CHECKLIST:” Page 44
APPENDIX "B" LOCKING ROUTES AND SETTING “FIXED” NODE PATHS:Page 45
APPENDIX “C” The X1J4/Neville Pattinson/MFJ-52B Deviation meter Page 48
ADC installation and SCALING FACTORS FOR THE MFJ-52B Page 49
APPENDIX "D" ACL Access Connect Limiting “Its use and abuse” Page 51
ILLUSTRATION MODIFYING THE MFJ-1270 (no suffix) for gateway operation Page 52
ILLUSTRATION MODIFYING THE MFJ-1270”B” for X-1J4 MFJ-52B installationPage 53
ILLUSTRATION MODIFYING THE MFJ-1270”B” for X-1J4 as an X-1J4 Node Page 54
ILLUSTRATION MODIFYING THE MFJ-1270”C” REV 10 for X-1J4 Node service Page 55
ILLUSTRATION MODIFYING THE MFJ-1270”C” REV 11 for X-1J4 Node service Page 56
Supporting instructions & procedures for MFJ-1270C “REV 11” Page 57

Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 5
AN INTRODUCTION TO PACKET RADIO:
by
Buck Rogers K4ABT
PACKET RADIO IS:
ommunications between computers using radio (RF) as the medium rather than wires or solid mediums. Your
personal computer in your ham shack coupled to your VHF or UHF transceiver via a terminal node controller (TNC) is
the makeup of the Packet Radio station. Computer terminal programs enable computers to send and receive Ax.25
Packet along with other well know digital modes such as CW and RTTY. The mode we are most interested in it called
“Packet Radio.”
Packet Radio is faster and is completely error-free as compared to CW and RTTY. This mode of data communications
allows us to deliver ASCII text, binary data, and even digital video via this high speed and error-free communications
medium.
One of the many benefits of using Packet Radio is that it preserves spectrum by allowing several stations can share one
frequency at the same time. By using the X-1J4 network node base described later in this book, you will discover other
ways that Packet radio can link your State, Country, or even the World into one massive network. One of the elements or
off-springs of Packet communications is the internet. Much like Packet radio, the internet uses every conceivable type or
kind of medium to transverse from point A to destination B. The internet uses longer packets with a protocol based on
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) with Internet Protocol (IP) addressing.
THE TERMINAL NODE CONTROLLER (TNC):
By now you have heard the phrase, “terminal node controller” or “TNC” several times. The terminal node controller
(TNC) performs as an interface between the computer and the transceiver. The TNC combines a modem and a packet
assembler/disassembler that accepts information from your computer and sends received data to your computer. The TNC
(prior to 1983 it was called a “PAD” or packet assembler/disassembler) breaks data into “packets.” These packets are
normally 128 letters or characters in length. In our Packet TNC we have the option to increase this packet length up to 255
characters in length. The TNC command that allows us to make this change is called “PacLen.”
Once the TNC has received the data from your computer, it then breaks it into packets about 100 characters long and
combines additional (bytes) information to the outgoing data. The added bytes include the destination addressing, error-
checking, and frame control information. Address and destination information that is added in by the TNC includes the
callsign of the target station and the callsign of the station sending the packet (data). This same frame or data packet will
also contain the path or nodes that is used between the two connected stations. The forward error-checking intelligence
within the AX.25 Packet frame enables the target station to ascertain that the was received without any errors. If errors
were received, the receiving station sends a non-acknowledge (NACK) Packet indicating to the sending station that it must
repeat the Packet again or until the Packet is received “error free.” Once the Packet is received error-free, the receiving
station will send an “ACKnowledge” packet to indicate that the data was received as sent.
DIGIPEATERS & NODES:
Any packet radio station can act as a digipeater. A digipeater is a “store-and-forward” Packet station. Most TNC's are
setup to digipeat automatically without any effort on the part of the station being used as a digipeater. To reach a distant
station, we connect to any remote node that is in range of our station. From this point on, we use the remote node as if we
have a long cable between our computer and the remote node. Once connected to the remote node we can instruct the node
to connect our station to a distant Packet station. The node will “ACKnowledge” packets between our station and the target
or destination station. The node is also a “store-and-forward” device that may be located atop a mountain or tall structure
that enables it to hear Packet stations that are beyond our stations reach. This handbook has a complete section dedicated to
the construction, configuration, operation, and use of nodes. Read on as you are about to discover how much fun and
enjoyment Packet Radio
c

Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 6
Chapter One
Packet Radio “The Easy Way !”
PACKET RADIO:
The Easy Way !©
by Buck Rogers K4ABT
© 1986 Updated; 1990, 1997
When I first wrote “PACKET RADIO: The Easy
Way!” in 1986, I felt that somehow the new or
prospective Packeteer would not feel comfortable with
an attempt at setting up his or her Packet station
without some means of tutorial. That was when I
decided to write this tutorial. I had to give the ham
who might be willing to give Packet Radio a try, a
head start by taking them around the pitfalls that I
had experienced when I set up my first Packet station.
When I began my Packet Radio hobby, there were no
neighbor Packeteers, Packet books or tutorials that
might provide guidance for a beginning Packeteer.
Here then, is a brief and easy to understand guide for
the first time Packet Radio operator.
WHAT DO YOU NEED TO BEGIN OPERATING
PACKET?
The equipment needed to get on the air is a VHF
transceiver, a computer or terminal, and a terminal node
controller (TNC). There is packet activity on HF, but
VHF is the best place to start out in Packet Radio. The
TNC contains a modem similar to the modem used to
connect your computer to the phone lines, except that it
also contains special firmware especially designed for
Packet radio.
When you take the TNC out of the carton, most of the
time you'll find cables are provided with the TNC
connectors supplied. The other end of the cables that
attach to the transceiver and computer are not supplied.
The reason is that the TNC manufacturer has no idea
what kind of radio you might be connecting the TNC to.
The burden is on the user to purchase the correct
connector for the transceiver and computer that will be
used with the TNC. Determine the kind of microphone,
speaker jack, and computer serial comport connectors
that you're going to use. In some cases the TNC
manufacturer furnishes only the connector for the TNC.
This means that you must also furnish the cable that
connects the TNC to your computer or terminal. In most
cases, a 25 pin RS-232 serial cable is used between the
TNC and computer. The later models employ a 9 pin
serial connector, thus you will need a 9 pin
connector/cable.
This may vary depending on the type and make of
computer terminal being used. Check the serial comport
of your computer to be sure of the type connector that you
will need. DO THIS BEFORE GOING TO THE PARTS
SUPPLY HOUSE!
In most cases the computer will have either a 9 pin male
connector, or a 25 pin male connector as the RS-232
serial comport. If this is the case, you will have to supply
the female connector for the computer end of the cable.
Be sure to note the number of pins on the
computer/terminal connector.
The operating manuals supplied with most TNC provide
adequate directions for use of various computers. Look
for the computer to terminal node controller (TNC)
interface section in the TNC manual. In most
applications the cable for your TNC to computer may be
purchased “ready-made” for many computer vendors.
When all else fails read the manual and set up procedures
for your TNC very carefully. The manual that is supplied
with your TNC may have information that is specific to
the personality of your TNC.
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, START YOUR
.......tee N cee’s
Once you have everything wired and connected together,
turn on the computer, load a terminal program. There
are lots of terminal programs available for use with
Packet radio.
If you do not have a Packet terminal program, then send
an MS/DOS formatted disk and a self addressed and
postage paid return mailer to me and I will provide you
with a copy of BUXTERM.EXE along with the
BUXTERM manual.

The Packet Radio “2 N 1”Handbook by Buck Rogers K4ABT
Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” Section 2;The X1J4 System Node Operator’s (SNO) Handbook
Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 0
IT IS FREE ! There is no “catch”, it is FREE! You
supply the disk, mailer, and return postage.
Mail TO: BuxTerm
115 Luenburg Drive
Evington, Virginia 24550
You can also download BUXTERM from one of my web
sites at; www.PacketRadio.com
Next we switch on the VHF transceiver and turn the
volume up a quarter turn or just above the "9:00 o'clock
position." Make sure the squelch is not set too tight.
The squelch should be set to a position where the
transceiver is quite. The squelch is set in a similar
manner that you would use for voice operation.
There are two communication speeds that are used in
Packet Radio. It is necessary that each new Packeteer be
aware of the meaning of each speed, and the relationship
to his/her Packet station. The first speed is the terminal
to TNC baudrate. The second speed is the “ON-AIR” or
radio (VHF) baudrate.
Since we are about to begin operating in the VHF region
we will begin with an on-air baudrate of 1200 baud’s.
ABAUD refers to the terminal to TNC, and HBAUD
refers to the RADIO or ON-AIR baudrate. Most
computer and TNCs will operate at an Abaud of 9600
baud’s.
The following figure will give you an idea of two
communication functions that we are discussing.
123
1. Computer or Dumb Terminal
2. Packet Radio Terminal Node Controller
(TNC)
3. VHF or UHF Transceiver
NOW LET'S BEGIN HAVING FUN:
If you’ve followed the setup procedures outlined in the
manual that comes with your TNC, then you are ready to
take the plunge into the wonderful world of operating
Packet.
Verify that all control, signal and ground wires (PTT,
RECEIVE, AFSK, and SIGNAL GROUND) are
connected to the correct connector pins.
TURN ON THE TNC!
When you first turn on the TNC you may see garbled text
on the screen. This is usually because the terminal to
TNC baudrate is not set to the same parameters. Some
TNCs will do a "search" mode to find the setting that you
have your terminal program set to/for. If at first you see
garbage on the screen then clear text begins to appear,
you should follow the instructions that appear on the
screen. If you are unable to establish communications
with the TNC, then review the TNC manual for further
instructions. The baud rate of the TNC has to match the
baud rate used by your computer terminal program and is
easily adjusted. When the terminal to TNC parameters
are correct, a message will appear on the screen showing
the TNC manufacturer's name, firmware version, and
date of EPROM program.
Perform a "control C" (press Ctrl and the letter C at the
same time); this places the TNC into command (cmd:)
mode.
This is where all commands are issued from you to the
TNC. Any command that is typed while in the "cmd:
mode is received by the TNC as a direct order.
Once in the command mode, you can press the [Enter]
key and each time you press the [Enter] key a "cmd:"
prompt should appear on the screen. This is an
indication that you have control (command) of the TNC.
The next step will be to set our callsign into the TNC.
To put our call sign into the TNC, at the cmd: prompt,
we type and [Enter] the following:
MY (my call) or (your call)
I send my call sign to my TNC in the following manner.
Type and [Enter] to the keyboard/TNC: (the [Enter]
simply means I pressed the Enter key).
MY K4ABT [Enter]
You may now test the TNC to see if your call sign is
indeed set into the TNC. To do so, type:
MY [Enter] and the TNC should respond with:
MYCALL K4ABT

The Packet Radio “2 N 1”Handbook by Buck Rogers K4ABT
Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” Section 2;The X1J4 System Node Operator’s (SNO) Handbook
Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 0
This lets us know that the computer and TNC are
communicating.
Now that you have entered your call sign as we have just
described, followed by a carriage return, (CR or [Enter],
we are ready to set other commands into our TNC. If
there is no response when you type MY, then try typing:
ECHO ON [Enter]
The :cmd:" should appear on the screen again, with a
message similar to the following:
ECHO was OFF
NOTE; If you are seeing double letters (i.e.; MMYY
CCAALLLL) displayed when you type, this indicates that
the ECHO command should be turned OFF. Type the
following :
ECHO OFF
The TNC may respond with:
ECHO was ON
Here are some other commands that we should make
active; Type them in as I have shown them below:
MON ON
MCOMON
MCON OFF
MRPT ON
If you’ve wired the RS-232 interface cable using the
RTS, CTS, Txd, Rxd, and Signal Ground leads, then set
the XFLO command OFF. If you did NOT use the
RTS, and CTS signals, then make sure the XFLO
command is ON.
THE MOMENT OF TRUTH:
The most used frequency for VHF Packet Radio operation
is 145.010 MHz; However there are many other
frequencies that are set aside for Packet Radio use. The
SouthEastern Digital Association Networks (SEDAN) is
operating at 145.770 Mhz..
The following is a list of other VHF, and UHF Packet Radio
simplex frequencies (In Mhz):
144.91, 144.93, 144.95, 144.97, 144.99, 145.01, 145.03, 145.05,
145.07, 145.09, 145.51, 145.53, 145.55, 145.57, 145.59, 145.61,
145.63, 145.65, 145.67, 145.69, 145.71, 145.73, 145.75, 145.770.
Included in the ARRL future band plans are several
simplex (64 kB), 100 kHz backbone frequencies within
the 219 > 220 Mhz UHF band, (FCC approved 16 March
1995 with restrictions, see CQ Magazine PUN June
1995)
Below are a few frequencies that are set aside for Packet Radio use
in the 420 > 450 Mhz band:
430.050, 430.150, 430.250, 430.350, 430.450, 430.550, 430.650,
430.850, 430.950, 440.975, 441.000, 441.025, 441.050, 441.075,
446.500.
As I mentioned earlier, make sure the MONITOR
command is ON, then watch the screen. If you have
tuned to one of the Packet frequencies mentioned above
and you are not yet seeing data appear on the screen, then
try the SEDAN 1200 baud access Packet frequency of
145.770.
When all else fails call a Packet friend and ask them to
connect to your call. If you are using an *SSID of your
call, be sure to include this in the information that you
give the friend. While you are about it, ask if he/she uses
an SSID.
AWW SSID !
Now that I have you wondering; "What is an SSID?"
Here is a brief explanation for the “Secondary Station
IDentification” (SSID). In Packet Radio you can have
up to 15 Secondary Station IDentifiers (SSID's), an
example is K4ABT-1 through K4ABT-15. K4ABT
without an SSID extension, is considered the 0 (zero)
SSID, thus we could have sixteen different stations/calls
on the air at the same time using our single call sign.
That's where the numbers in the call sign come into play.
The added dash numbers (-1 etc...) numbers are used to
distinguish the various station(s) or node(s).
To connect to a station or node which uses an SSID, it is
important that we know what the SSID is before
attempting a connect to that station. To try connecting to
a station or node without having the appropriate SSID
included in the connect sequence would be like trying to
place a long-distance telephone call without using an
area code. A crude analogy, but you get my drift.
You are about to embark upon the most fun filled facet of
Ham Radio. Give it a try.

Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 9
LET’S BEGIN:
This is where you will find this handbook to be helpful.
I’ve written this handbook to serve as a guide to get you
started in Packet Radio. After you have your station
assembled, and working, you may wish to learn about the
more advanced levels of Packet operating.
There are books that provide detailed information for the
advanced levels of Packet operating and projects for the
more advanced levels of operating. Books for the
advanced Packet operator are:
1) PACKET RADIO OPERATOR'S
HANDBOOK (MFJ Publications)
2) PACKET RADIO OPERATOR'S
MANUAL (CQ Publications)
Be sure to visit the PacketRadio Networks Home page(s)
at: http: //www.packetradio.com and at:
http: //www.packetradio.org
Advanced levels of Packet include transmitting and
receiving high resolution color pictures (error free),
transmission of large ASCII and binary files, and how to
build and use nodes with Packet Radio.
Included in the books just mentioned, is information on
many other uses and applications for digital
communications.
YAPP is a protocol that is universally used to transfer
binary files to and from the BBS system. YAPP is not
supported in BUXTERM, however, YAPP protocol is
supported in the MFJ MULTICOM.EXE software.
NOW we are having more fun already!
73 de BucK4ABT

Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 10
A PacketRadio FREQUENCY GUIDE FOR THE NEW PACKET OPERATOR:
This guide is for information purposes only, and is subject to change. Some changes in future band-plans may cause
changes in the application of certain Packet frequencies. A possible change in the 219.050 to 219.950 is one example of
Packet frequency changes. The 219 Mhz band is allocated for future trunks and backbone "only." Some frequencies are
used for specific Packet modes. Note that frequencies are in MHz:
80 Meters
3.606 Packet
3.630 Packet
3.642 Packet
40 Meters
7.090-7.100 Packet
30 Meters
10.145-10.150 Packet
20 Meters
14.101-14.110 Packet
14.230 SSTV
17 Meters
18.100-18.110 Packet
15 Meters
21.099-21.105 Packet
10 Meters
28.099-28.105 Packet
28.150 -28.190 1200 baud Packet
6Meters
50.60-51.78 Packet
50.62 Packet calling freq
51.12 9600 baud “backbone only”
2 Meters
144.910-145.090 Packet (every 20 kHz)
145.510-145.790 Packet (every 20 kHz)
144.910 through 144.950 Mhz used for DX Spotting and
NOS operations.
144.970, 144.990, 145.030, 145.070 145.530, 145.550,
145.570, 145.590, 145.610, 145.630, 145.650, 145.670,
145.690, 145.730, and 145.750 Mhz are used as Local
Area Network (LAN's) and often ported into high-speed
backbones and trunks.
145.010, & 145.050 is most often used as BBS
forwarding and local BBS connects.
145.090, 145.510, & 145.710 are sometimes employed as
DX spotting nets.
145.770 Nationwide Keyboard to keyboard and
emergency Packet communications only. Some areas
use 145.770 Mhz for emergency communications in
addition to keyboard to keyboard communications.
In some east coast areas 144.390 Mhz is used with
Automatic Packet Reporting Systems (APRS), and as a
DXCluster or DX spotting network frequency.
222 MHz
223.52-223.64 Packet

The Packet Radio “2 N 1”Handbook by Buck Rogers K4ABT
Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” Section 2;The X1J4 System Node Operator’s (SNO) Handbook
Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 0
Chapter Two
LEARNING ABOUT PACKET CONTROLLERS
The TERMINAL NODE CONTROLLER (TNC)
By now you have heard the phrase, “terminal node
controller” or “TNC” several times. The terminal node
controller (TNC) performs as an interface between the
computer and the transceiver. The TNC combines a
modem and a packet assembler-disassembler (PAD), that
accepts information from your computer and sends
received data to your computer.
The TNC (prior to 1983 it was called a “PAD” or packet
assembler/disassembler) that breaks data into “packets.”
Since 1983, the “PAD” has become known as the “tink”
or TNC.
Packets are normally 128 letters or characters in length.
In our Packet TNC we have the option to increase this
packet length up to 255 characters in length. The TNC
command that allows us to make this change is called
“PacLen.”
Once the TNC has received the data from your computer,
it then breaks it into packets about 100 characters long
and combines additional (bytes) information to the
outgoing data. The added bytes include the destination
addressing, error-checking, and frame control
information. Address and destination information that is
added in by the TNC includes the callsign of the target
station and the callsign of the station sending the packet
(data).
THE ALL-MODE CONTROLLERS:
These are controllers that transmit and receive PACKET
and other digital modes, such as:
PACKET, PACTOR, AMTOR, RTTY, CW, FAX
(WeFax), Slo-Scan TV (SSTV), and NavTec. They also
offer multiple ports for VHF and HF operations. The
MFJ-1278B is one such "multimode" controller that fits
into this category. The features may differ from one
"all-mode" controller to the next, so it would be in your
best interest to investigate the options which best suit
your needs.
THE PACKET CONTROLLERS:
If you plan to operate packet only, but you wish to use
both HF and VHF packet, you may want to look for a
controller which has a tuning indicator for use on the HF
bands. The MFJ-1274B is one such Packet only
controller that operates HF and VHF Packet.
It has a Packet tuning indicator for use when operating at
HF. Most of these controllers operate both HF and VHF
Packet.
Almost all Terminal Node Controllers (TNC) operate
both HF and VHF, but to try operating HF packet without
a tuning indicator is like fishing without bait, your
chances of catching anything are, little to none.
Now if you just want to operate VHF packet, there are
numerous TNCs to fill your fancy. As of this writing,
just about every TNC now supports the "MAILBOX "
feature. This allows the user to set the MAILBOX or
PBBS command ON while the computer or terminal is
being used for other tasks, such as letter writing, and data
processing. The mailbox will receive and store messages
while you are using the computer off-line or away.
If your desire is to use the ultimate in a digital, all-mode
controller, then check into the MFJ-1278 and the
companion software terminal program, MultiCom for
Windows.
Once you’ve used this combination, the rest are paled by
comparsion.
KEYBOARD-TO-KEYBOARD CONTACTS:
The number one use of Packet radio is probably keyboard
to keyboard contacts through a Packet network. Like
other digital communications modes, Packet radio can
be used to talk to other amateurs. For those who cannot
use HF frequencies, two Packet stations can talk to each
other across long distances using a PACKET radio
network.

Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 12
EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS:
Keyboard to keyboard Packet communications is where
Packet radio excels. Packet has proven many times over
its usefulness as an emergency communications medium.
The use of Packet radio as a sky-warn or weather-watch
tool has become a standard operating proceedure.
In areas where earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes,
storms, flood and other natural disasters have occurred,
Packet radio has been used to relay information, requests
for food, medicines, and help from the destressed area to
the proper authorities.
In a disaster area a voice repeater may be lost due to high
winds, flood, or other causes, an emergency Packet node
or station can be setup at a moments notice. Emergency
and disaster communications can be enabled
immediately.
In some regions of the country, dedicated Packet
networks are in use specifically for this purpose. One
such network is the Southeastern Emergency Digital
Association Networks (SEDAN) that reaches from
Washington DC well into south Florida. Much of the
SEDAN covers the eastern coast of the United States and
inland as far as Alabama and Mississippi. This network
is made up of over 200 nodes and provides continuity
into all the major cities where the Red Cross emergency
operations centers are located.
When disaster relief and medical teams call for supplies
of a specific type or category and where the spelling of a
medical title is important, the printed (Packet text) word
will prevail over the spoken word. With the error-free
nature of the AX.25 Packet protocol, the message is clear
and concise.
PACKET BBS OPERATIONS:
Many cities have a PACKET Bulletin Board System
(BBS) included on their Packet local area network
(LAN). Amateurs can check into the BBS's and read
messages from other Packet users on almost any topic.
BBS's are networked together over the Packet network to
allow messages to reach a broader user base than your
local BBS users. Private messages may also be sent to
other Packet operators, either locally or who use other
BBSs.
Most BBS's have the latest Amateur radio news bulletins
and propagation bulletins posted. Many BBS's have a
file section containing various text files full of
information on amateur radio in general.
DX PACKET SPOTTING NETWORKS:
The use of Packet radio for DX spotting has become a
tool that enables the serious DXer to make DX contacts
almost as easy as “shooting fish in a barrel.” HF
operators connect to the local DX Packet node for the
latest reports on DX. Often a user will “spot” some hot
DX and distribute the DX report real time throughout the
DX spotting network.
FILE TRANSFER (ASCII, TEXT, & BINARY) :
Using special like BUXTERM, MULTICOM, PACPRO,
YAPP and many others, amateurs can pass any binary
files to other amateurs. This may also be accomplished
using TCP/IP (NOS) communications, and other
specialized protocols.
PACKET PICTURE TRANSFER:
To add more fun to our Packet Radio hobby, we can send
and receive high resolution, color pictures via Packet
Radio. The method of transfer in many programs allow
the pictures to be transferred and while they are being
received, they are displayed on the screen in 256 or more
colors. At the same time the picture is being saved to
disk for future viewing or sending to another station.
When exchanging high resolution Packet pictures with
other Packet stations, both stations must be using the
same software (terminal program).
SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS:
The amateur radio satellites contain microcomputers that
provide special information to amateurs. Some satellites
contain TV cameras that allow users to download images
of the earth and the stars. Others provide store and
forward Packet mailboxes that enable message transfers
over vast distances. Some satellites use AX.25, some use
special Packet protocols developed for satellite
communications. Transmissions are both AX.25 Packet
using FM transceivers, and others use Single Sideband.

The Packet Radio “2 N 1”Handbook by Buck Rogers K4ABT
Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” Section 2;The X1J4 System Node Operator’s (SNO) Handbook
Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 0
Chapter Three
Antennas For Packet
I'm not suggesting that any digital radio user should select one antenna over another. Use whatever you have, or choose the
antenna that best favors your needs and environment.
This chapter deals with the specifics related to various types of antenna. We will consider everything from an isotropic radiator
(Dipole) to a J-Pole.
Packet radio is one of those communications modes that will reflect on the system operator if he or she fails to provide the antenna
that has the best radiating and capture effect to it. In fact, if the antenna is not constructed and erected so as to provide good capture
to signals and have the lowest noise component
with respect to terrestrial noise, then no one is to
blame except the operator who is in charge of the
installation.
I am as meticulous as A.J. the day before race day.
Don't just walk the race track, look for the bumps
and crevices. The antenna for your packet station is
about to become your doorway to the world.
Every one who has spent any time around me will
affirm that, "Buck won't skimp when it comes to
his antenna."
I am very particular where my antennas are
concerned. When I go to buy cable and connectors,
I purchase the best available coax and connectors.
When I go to buy cable or connectors, I specify silver
flashed connectors and cable of the best quality. Over
the years, that is the part of my station that will get the
least attention after it is installed, so I want it to
withstand the elements and provide dependable
communications for a long time.
I am very picky about the antennas and associated
components of my antenna system. With over forty years as a amateur, and over forty five years as a Senior Telecommunications
Engineer, I’ve learned a very valuable lesson early on. SIGNAL QUALITY begins at the tip of the antenna, and it travels down
through the transmission-line and reflects off the operator at the other end. Let your reflection be a good one.
RADIATION and RESONANCE:
Antennas can be constructed to radiate with directional, omni- directional, and bi-directional patterns.
The kind of pattern desired, depends on the coverage area requirements. Likewise, the type antenna selected, will determine the
kind of pattern you will have. Another major factor in antenna selection and installation is the distance above the ground that an
antenna is suspended.
Antenna theory as related to antennas suspended in free space states simply that the ground below will provide a reflection or
mirror effect. This mirror effect gives an antenna the appearance of having greater gain when the antenna is mounted at distances
that are "in- phase", or a given wavelength above the earth. The greater the height, the greater the gain.

Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 14
It goes without saying, (but I will anyway) HF beam antennas with long elements, and towers with guy-wires affixed near the top,
don't work well together when the beam is vertically polarized. Something will have to bend or break, either the guy-wire or the
element that are in each others path. For this and other reasons, most HF beams are horizontally polarized.
VOICE vs DIGITAL:
Don't be deceived by the heading of this section. I am not about to begin a rebuttal between these two modes. My intention is to
look into the types of antenna that is best suited for the digital mode of communications, as related to the antenna commonly used
for voice communications. From the beginning of this chapter, we have moved in this direction.
If it is distance you want, then the class of beam antenna that we use for voice will be sufficient. If it is coverage you prefer, again I
prefer the beam type antenna as a power booster. I tend to try for a happy medium with respect to the digital and/or packet modes.
The yagi type antenna, in a horizontal configuration is one way to go if you want coverage, and reduced wind resistance.
That happy medium I spoke of takes the form of a vertically polarized yagi and/or a cubical quad. My preference is the latter;
primarily because the "QUAD" is well known for its favorable gain/bandwidth characteristics.
There is a second, and more important reason I chose the cubicle QUAD. The cubicle quad offers a better signal to noise ratio
because influence from terrestrial noise is greatly reduced when receiving with a cubicle quad antenna. This inherent rejection to
terrestrial noise is one of the reasons we might consider the quad for use in a digital data medium.

Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 15
THE ANTENNA IS THE KEY "ELEMENT":
The antenna for digital as well as any other modes of communications is only as good as the transmission line that feeds the
antenna. Consult the handbooks and the catalogs for the latest and greatest coax or transmission feedline. Look at the
manufacturers printed specifications for a given type of feedline or coax. When the (VHF/UHF) coaxial cable runs are less than
100 feet, I spec for Belden 9913. When the VHF/UHF cable runs require MORE than 100 feet, I spec for Andrew LDF-4-50 or
larger “heliax.”™ hardline.
The main points of interest are the specs regarding the loss factor (expressed in DB) per hundred feet, the velocity factor, and the
frequency at which the measurement was taken. Over the long haul, the "hard- lines" or multiple shielded coax cables will prove to
be the better value.
The coaxial (coax) cable or the transmission line plays a major role in the antenna performance. The coax is a very vital part of the
overall antenna system, but the coax has a personality of its own and can reek havoc if it is not cut to or "tuned" for optimum
performance along with the antenna. It is even more important to say that antenna performance will depend on the behavior of the
transmission line at the time of antenna tuning or setup. In other words, if the coax is not prepared before the antenna is tuned,
then tuning of the antenna will not render optimum performance.
The coax is the "life-line" that delivers the energy to the antenna. since the energy is handled by the coax, this means that the coax
is either an external extension of the "tank circuit" or it is part of the antenna, but which is true.
This is not a trick question, but a way to make a statement that can be easily remembered. The antenna feed line is BOTH; Because
the complete antenna system is part of the tank circuit.
Wow! Now we are beginning to understand why the antenna should be tuned.

Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 16
Chapter Four
USING A PACKET BBS:
Because there are so many variations and versions of Packet Bulletin Board Systems (BBS), I've put together a composite of
the most used BBS commands. In the list of commands that follow, I will address instructions that are in general use with
most of the full service Packet BBS types. These commands are closely associated with, but not related to, the common
telephone type BBS.
As a matter of interest to the Packet BBS user, there is no waiting period to access other "WHAT" files sections of a Packet
BBS. Packet BBSes allow the immediate access to all levels of the BBS where the telephone BBSes often require a 24 or
48, hour (and sometimes a week) waiting period after initial access, before the user is allowed full BBS operating privileges.
Once you have answered the four questions, BBS access is there ready and waiting at your service. Just remember that
other users await access to the BBS so limit yourself. This same consideration may be in your favor at a later time.
Some BBSes allow multiple connects to them. When this is the case, BBS activity may slow down while multiple users are
downloading files from the BBS.
A connect to your local area network (LAN) BBS is made in the same manner as a connect to another Packet station. If this
is your first connect to the BBS, you will need to provide some information about yourself. There are four questions, and
the answers to them are short, so the time spent answering these questions are not like the complex answers that were
needed when you accessed a telephone BBS.
If it is your first time on the bbs you will be asked to enter your NAME, QTH, ZIP CODE and HOME BBS. The format
is as follows.
N BUCK
NQ LYNCHBURG, VA
NZ 24550
NH WD4ELJ
The Ncommand can be used to register your name or QTH. You should enter both of these. To enter your name type N
yourname.
Example: N BUCK
To enter your QTH, use the command NQ your QTH.
Example: NQ EVINGTON, VA
To enter your ZIP or Postal Code, use NZ code.
Example: NZ 24550
To enter the BBS that you use to receive mail at, use NH callsign.
Example: NH [Your home BBS]
The BBS will then greet you using your name; In some cases the BBS greeting will contain both the name and callsign.
After the greeting a list of abbreviated commands will appear on the screen.

The Packet Radio “2 N 1”Handbook by Buck Rogers K4ABT
Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” Section 2;The X1J4 System Node Operator’s (SNO) Handbook
Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 0
The greeting may appear similar to the following:
WD4ELJ> Hello BUCK, K4ABT Welcome to WD4ELJ BBS [BBS type/number]
WD4ELJ> A,B,C,D,G,H,I,J,K,L,M,N,P,R,S,U,V,W,X,?,*
The following is a list meanings for the abbreviated command letters shown above.
B- Bye C- Conference D- Download G - File search H- Help
I- Information J- Calls heard K- Kill message L- List Messages M- Message of
N- Enter name/qth P- Path to call R- Read message S- Send Message U- Current users
V- VERSION/INFO about BBS W- What files X- Expert
?x- Info about command x *- Comment line
The Abort command can be used to abort the output from many of the BBS commands, like Download, List and Read for
example.
The Bye command disconnects you from the BBS. Use it when you are done!
The Conference command should not be used on the BBS if it is on a LAN frequency with high usage. The conference
mode of a BBS can present a grid-lock situation if the BBS is being accessed by other users at the same time the conference
is in use.
The Download command is used to read a file stored on the system. The format of the command is "D filename" where
[filename] is the name of the file to down load.
To see what files are available for downloading, use the W command. To download a file in a subdirectory, use D
FILENAME.
Iby itself gives hardware configuration of the system.
ID gives a list of the ports and digipeaters/gateways available.
The Jcommand lists stations recently heard on the various ports and stations that recently connected. Use the Pcommand
for path to stations that have connected recently.
The Kcommand is used to kill (delete) old messages from the system. You can kill only those messages that are to or from
your station. The format of the command is K, space, and then the number of the message to delete. You can also use the
command KM to delete all messages TO you that have been read.
Use the command KT[msg#] to kill NTS traffic you are going to deliver.
The List command lists selected message headers. The following formats are available:
•L- List messages since you last used the B command
•LB - List bulletins (all of them, use with care!)
•LM - List messages to or from you (List Mine)
•LN - List messages with type of N (List New)
LL # - List the last # messages Example: LL 10 L< callsign - List messages from callsign
Example: L< K4ABT [This would list all messages FROM K4ABT] L> callsign - List messages to callsign
Example: L> K4ABT [This would list all messages TO K4ABT]

Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” A Packet Primer for the new Packeteer __ Page 18
For a short description of the commands at your Packet BBS, use Hcommand. For more information about a particular
command, type ?x where x is the letter of the command.
Putting * at the beginning of a line makes it a comment. It also suppresses the next command prompt (but the system will
be waiting for another command). * is useful to answer the SYSOP if you get a MESSAGE FROM SYSOP ...
ONE FINAL NOTE: After you read any messages directed to you, please kill that message using the KM command.

The Packet Radio “2 N 1”Handbook by Buck Rogers K4ABT
Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” Section 2;The X1J4 System Node Operator’s (SNO) Handbook
Section II; TheNET X1J4 System Node Operators Handbook __ Page 19
SECTION II; The X-1J4 System Node Operator’s Handbook!
Chapter Five
WHAT IS A PACKET NODE ?
The X1 node is beginning to attract many users, and it is
a "natural" for our Local Area Networks (LAN)
frequencies. Not only can it be used as a node to connect
out of the LAN. It also doubles for use as round-table
packet session when using the "TALK" command/mode.
In version X1J, there is an add-on hardware modification
that allows the users to examine their deviation
(modulation) level. If there is too much or too little
deviation, the users can adjust it accordingly. Further
connects to the node will allow them to determine when
the Frequency Modulation (FM) is set to the correct
swing.
The outgrowth of this node can be used for networking,
in a network of several nodes. There are many features
that time and space prohibit explanation here. To find
out more about this new networking node see the August
and September 1993 issues of CQ magazine.
The X1J code is burned into a 27C512 EPROM which
fits into the TAPR TNC-2 or clones, such as the
MFJ-1270C, and MFJ-1274C.
By now you are aware of the need for an EPROM burner.
One of the EPROM burners that I'm most familiar with is
the PB-10 from Needham Electronics. The PB-10
EPROM burner supports the latest EPROMS for user
friendly program for EPROM maintenance.
As I described in the August 1993 issue of CQ magazine
(PACKET USERS NOTEBOOK), the EPROM for the
X1 node is burned into a 27C512 EPROM in two parts.
The Needham Electronics EPROM burner makes the
process easy because we can set the first address to blow
the EPROM from 0000 to 7FFF, then the second half of
the EPROM is burned from address (HEX) 8000 to
FFFF.
The EPROM programmer makes the job easy is through
if it has a Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) socket.
The ZIF socket of the Programmer should accept several
sizes of EPROMS including the ONE MEGABYTE
EPROMS (27C1001, 27C1010 etc).
INITIALIZING:
Once the EPROM is installed into the TNC2 or clone,
the initializing process is easy. Turn it ON, set the
parameters, the rest is history.
The node sends out update broadcasts to inform other
nodes that it is active. The operating parameters are set
in the firmware and are available for easy changing by
the SYSOP. The parameters shown under the "P"
command of the X1 nodes parameters are similar to those
used in the early thenet 1.01 node. However, in the
X1J4, there are additional commands contained in 6
other parameter sections. These are associated with
specific functions and features like the MODE (17
commands), METER (10 commands), MTU, IP
addressing, ACL, and ADC 1&2.
The credit for this new network node firmware goes to
the developers; They are:
Dave Roberts G8KBB
Dave is the author of the X1 code. The X1 version is
based on the original thenet 1.01 platform that was
developed by the Nord><Link group.
Neville Pattinson G0JVU
Neville supports the hardware projects associated with
the X1 node(s).

The Packet Radio “2 N 1”Handbook by Buck Rogers K4ABT
Section 1; Packet Radio “The Basics” Section 2;The X1J4 System Node Operator’s (SNO) Handbook
Section II; TheNET X1J4 System Node Operators Handbook __ Page 20
Chapter Six
Reviewing the New Features of the X1J4 Node
1. An S-meter function in the heard list
2. A Voltmeter function for the other two ADC channels
3. The ability to change the user's command prompt list
4. The ACL function has had a feature added to speed it up
5. A complete IP router,
6. The Receive Deviation meter,
7. Control of 'Slime Trails',
8. Information text messages 160 characters long,
9. Multiple line INFO, CTEXT and BTEXT messages,
10. Nodes broadcasts occur 60 seconds after power up,
11. Optional reconnect to the node after remote disconnect,
12. PARMS, MODE etc may be managed by offset & value,
13. Digipeat uplink & downlinks may be selectively enabled,
14. Level 4 retries ( min ) is now 1,
15. An MTU command allows MTU settings to be changed for IP use,
16. Node alias handling is optionally case sensitive,
17. TALK will optionally pass 8 bit data,
18. The ability to remotely set the node's alias,
19. The ability to listen for 3 extra aliases & invoke BBS etc,
20. Selective node broadcast control for 'hash' nodes,
21. A UI command to send arbitrary UI commands,
22. Access control list capabilities,
23. Multi-user conferencing ( the 'TALK' command ),
24. A CWID keyer,
25. Better SYSOP authentication,
26. MHeard list showing callsigns, packets heard & time since last heard,
27. MHeard list shows whether a station is a node and / or TCP/IP station,
28. A Closedown command to remotely shut the node down,
29. A DXCluster command that operates like the BBS & Host commands,
30. A Btext command to set the node's beacon text message,
31. A Ctext command to set an optional alias connect text message,
32. The ability to enable or disable any command,
33. Improved command prompting with only valid commands shown,
34. Routes show optionally as alias:callsign or callsign alone,
35. Additional control over system reset,
36. KISS as an alternative to the crosslink protocol,
37. Hardware handshake controlled host mode operation,
38. MODE command for configuring additional parameters,
39. BBS command to auto connect to a remote BBS,
40. HOST command to auto connect to another BBS or Host,
41. BYE or QUIT commands to disconnect,
42. STATS command to display internal statistics,
43. MANAGER command for system manager access,
44. AUDIT command to set system audit levels,
45. Changes to the NODES command,
46. An improved nodes broadcast algorithm for the crosslink port,
47. Split port nodes broadcast intervals,
48. Ability to enable & disable nodes broadcasts selectively on each port,
49. CQ apologises nicely if disabled,
50. Most Escape commands have been replaced with MODE parameters,
51. Beacon messages may be digi'd,
52. CALIBRATE command for remote checking of Tx deviation,
53. LINKS command to show current level 2 links,
54. Configuration of the beacon period,
55. Auto routing of 'connect' to either BBS, DXCluster or HOST,
56. Remote dump of entire neighbor lists for all nodes.
57. The ARP table is automatically updated from ARP requests & replies
58. The node maintains a second heard list of L3 Netrom nodes that gateway through the node
59. The RxDeviation & Smeter ADC channels may also be used as arbitrary inputs instead
60. A defensive port flush function added
61. Link list integrity checking has been extended to check reverse links
62. The USER list shows circuit choke status for patchcord connections.
63. The ADC* text messages are now 12 characters long
64. The ACL checks the end user call as well as the node call in accepting connections.
65. Lines that start with '#' are ignored by the switch
66. A default IP route entry may be made
67. Support for the TexNet '*** LINKED to' syntax