k5myj wrote: > I have been looking at some of the newer VHF mobile tranceivers. Mine > is a 2003 variety. The next one Kenwood built has a PACKET connector > on it. > > Is this Packet interface usable as a digital mode between two > stations in simplex mode? > > My next step is to locate packet software and find out how it works. > > Bob Macklin K5MYJ Seattle, Wa.
The data connector found on many VHF/UHF FM radios is for connecting an external TNC (Terminal Node Controller). The TNC interfaces your radio to a computer. On VHF a baud rate of 1200 baud is normally used. You can keyboard back and forth between two or more radios quite easily. There are programs around that make this simple but you can also just use something like Hyperterminal. TNCs vary by manufacturer. The exact commands required to connect, etc. can change somewhat. <http://www.choisser.com/packet/> has info on basic packet. It is not nearly as popular as it once was but does serve as the underlying transport mechanism for things like APRS and the VHF/UHF modes for Winlink 2000 email via RF. Tim, N9PUZ
