> Is there a basic primer on your software? There is one being developed that applies to the yet-to-be-released 0.3 version. It will debut along with that release and will be a more comprehensive explanation of a lot of things.
> It's the part after "Now you're ready to send and receive messages!" > that's pretty much a blank slate. The best thing to do in the meantime would be to join the mailing list and benefit from the discussion and experience of other users. > So my question is, what next? Does a quick message just do a simple > broadcast, and who ever is around can see it? Yep, that'll work. You can also do a ping to see who is online. Go to File->Ping Station and type "CQCQCQ" in the box. Anyone online will respond. Just note that not everyone pays attention to it 24x7. > Can I send messages directed to a specific station? Chat messages are multcast, so they go to everyone at once. > What about the forms? Yes, forms and files go from one station to another. > Can I send those to a specific station, or do I have to send them to > a specific station? I'm not sure what you're asking here :) > Does that station have to have a copy of the form framework before > they can receive the information, or will the receiving station > request that I send the form framework if they don't have it > already? If you send them a form, they will be able to open it. If they are missing a stylesheet they won't be able to get the pretty-printed version of it if they make that attempt. However, by default they have all the forms you have, so it shouldn't be a problem. If you create a new form type, you can send it to them and they will be able to open it. They won't be able to instantiate new (blank) versions of that form until you send them the template (which you can do as a file transfer over the air, if need be). > Can I send this information locally and through a gateway? Simplex, local on the repeater, through the gateway, over the ratflector, etc. > How do I determine where I'm sending it? Do I have to do the > addressing with the URCALL MYCALL stuff? The data goes where your radio is set for, D-RATS can't control the radio's URCALL and MYCALL fields. On top of that, D-RATS asks you what station you want to send something to when you send it. So, if you're on the local repeater with a URCALL of CQCQCQ, then you can freely direct objects to anyone reachable on frequency by telling D-RATS their callsign when sending. > Just trying to figure out what to do with the new toys... Not a problem, but these are excellent questions to ask on the D-RATS list and you'll likely get more than just one answer :) > I have the same questions you just asked, and let me add one more: > Does it have to be the G2 gateway if it goes over the network? Nope, if you use the ratflector the D-STAR gateway system (G1 or G2) is completely uninvolved. Similarly, you can use it on simplex or a local repeater without using the gateway system at all. Thanks! -- Dan Smith dsmith#danplanet.com, s/#/@/ www.danplanet.com KK7DS
