Winlink Fundamentals
An introduction to Winlink for New Users.
Setting Up and Using
the System
A -
Introduction
Australian radio amateurs are showing increasing interest in Winlink. This
primarily comes from those who, when away from their home base, like or need to
use the amateur radio bands to stay in touch with family and friends. The
majority of those that are interested are mobile users, particularly
recreational cruisers on long offshore passages. The other group are those who
are tracking Australia’s outback by caravan or 4WD. Before getting on the air,
potential Winlink Users need to understand and address several technical,
operational and financial challenges. This brief article covers the installation
and use of Winlink on a sailboat, although in practice the general principle
apply equally for installation on land-based vehicles and home-base Stations.
To recapitulate, potential Winlink Users are attracted because of the features
offered by this free service. These services include:
(1) email from and to
the mobile user by anyone with an Internet or Winlink email address - especially
helpful for preventing and reporting emergencies;
(2) the automatic
position reporting system (APRS) by which those at home can follow the progress
of the traveler on the Internet as well as identify other Winlink-equipped
travelers that are in the travelers immediate vicinity;
(3) the ability for mariners to file Float Plans and for land travelers
to file proposed itineraries;
(4) the ability to obtain weather reports and charts around the clock;
(5) downloading GRIB
files that can be overlaid on some computer navigational charts to view weather
patterns;
(6) follow hurricane
(cyclone, typhoon) warnings;
(7) monitor Piracy Reports;
(8) obtain Medical and Veterinarian support by volunteers, when needed;
(9) receive digests of world news from several local and international
news agencies; and
(10) receive reports about radio communication propagation conditions.
A User
must, of course, have the appropriate amateur radio license, issued by their
national licensing agencies, allowing operation on the high frequency amateur
radio bands used by Winlink. Getting a license takes a little time and effort
but with the elimination of Morse code requirements, it has never been easier.
Many Winlink Users are known to have made the effort just to be able to use
Winlink.
B – System Components
Assuming that interested hams would already have a base station with a
transceiver, an antenna system and a computer, the only addition that is needed
to start using Winlink is a modem. Winlink supports the Pactor digital protocol.
There are several brands of modems on the market. It appears, however, that the
majority of Users use the SCS PTC modems developed by radio amateurs in Germany.
It is said to be superior to anything else on the market but it is relatively
expensive at about US$1,000. Potential Users who like to set up a completely
separate mobile station, on a boat or vehicle are facing a more substantial
investment. As a minimum, mobile operation usually requires a different antenna
system including an antenna tuner or coupler. On sailboats, it is usually a
backstay that is converted into an antenna. For land mobile applications the
antenna needs to be capable of being folded away and safely stored when driving.
Equally important, in these applications, is to provide an appropriate
counterpoise.(1)
A possible further refinement in system configuration is possible for
travelers who use electronic navigational equipment, such as a GPS, electronic
fluxgate compass and wind instruments. These can be interfaced as well in the
system setup.
Putting all the bits and pieces together in the cramped space of a boat’s
navigation station or dashboard of a RV is a challenge. This in particular
applies to the cabling. After having installed the components that make up the
communication system and any navigational equipment, quite a few cables are
still needed. This is best illustrated by now looking and studying the diagram
that is separately supplied with this article. As shown the components that make
up the system are grouped in five categories: (1)
Orange:
the radio communication System; (2)
Yellow:
the navigational system; (3) Green:
Peripheral equipment; (4) Purple: the
Computer , including hardware and software; (5) Blue:
the Power Supply; and, finally (6) Cabling.
The diagram includes a brief description of the required cables. Each group can
be explained as follows:
(2)
Communication
Components:
This includes: (a) the Antenna; (b) Antenna Tuner an ICOM AT 130; (c)
Transceiver – an ICOM M710; (d) Digital Modem – a SCS Pactor PTC-IIe modem; and
(f) other communication equipment like: AM/FM, HF, VHF and UHF radios;
Telephones and Television;
Navigational Components:
This could
include some or all of the following: (a) Global Positioning System (GPS); (b)
Electronic (fluxgate) compass; (c) Radar; (d) Wind instruments; (e) Automatic
Pilot; and (f) gauges for sensing Speed and Distance traveled (the Log) and
Water Depth and Temperature;
Computer:
Typically a
Notebook computer on small boats or a desktop computer on large boats with
appropriate power supply;
Electric Power
Generation, Storage and Management:
Typically: (a) generators, chargers and converters; (b) house and starter
batteries; (c) distribution panels with circuit breakers; and (d) in the better
setups a monitor that measures the state and rates of charge and discharge; and
Cabling.
C - Cabling
Cables:
This comprises:
(a) power supply, there are cables for (b) data transfer and (c) control
purposes. Because of the complexity of installing and using cables in a confined
space, additional attention is paid to this topic. Because of space limitations
it is important to not only keep cables short but also to the absolute minimum
number to cross the navigation desk. One of the first problems to face is that
the typical Notebook computer that might be used onboard typically has only one
RS232 Serial Port. Fortunately, the latest computers have a number of USB Ports.
The latter can be used with a port replicator or port converter. These pieces of
equipment can be as simple as the USB Converter that converts a RS232 to an USB
port. The Port Replicator, like those manufactured by Edgeport can, depending on
the size, take a number of different cables and have all the data and control
signals leave the replicator through a single cable that connects to the
computer’s USB Port. That certainly reduces the clutter on the navigation desk
or dashboard.
In the
particular installation described in this article the cabling that concern the
digital Pactor modem are an issue. The most expensive of the SCS modems provides
for a single cable to the computer that carries both the digital data as well as
the control instructions that automatically tune the transceiver to the required
frequency and mode whenever a different PMBO is selected. This is an extremely
helpful function as under difficult propagation conditions it is often necessary
to try different PMBOs for a successful connection; however, the Pactor Modem
available for this setup, a PTC-IIe, does not support this function. However,
the same function can be achieved by using a special cable that runs directly
from the computer to the transceiver. The difference in price, that covers also
a number of other enhancements, amounts to US$350. Another marketing quirk is
that neither of the two versions include the latest and most advanced Pactor
version. Pactor III that handles data two to four times faster will cost an
additional US$149. The cables that are needed to connect the modem to the
computer all need to be prefabricated. All in all it appears best to buy the
transceiver, SCS Modem and cable from the same supplier.
(3)
Another challenge is to supply electric power to the various components. Most
of the fixed mounted components would normally be hardwired. Only removable
components that would normally not be left on the boat, when left unattended for
long periods, do need temporary power supplies. This applies in particular to
the computer, the printer and the modem. It pays to minimize the use of
additional cables. For example, the Modem and Port Replicator are both powered
through the computer’s USB ports. The computer is connected to the N4UAU DC
Power Booster that is supplied power from a cigarette lighter connection on the
ship’s instrument panel.
D – RF Interference
One
particular problem concerning cabling that must be addressed is the risk of
Radio Frequency (RF) interference. The transceiver’s feed cable to the antenna
tuner and from there to the antenna can cause stray RF to enter other nearby
cables and system components and, ultimately, the computer. In some cases it may
be necessary to install ferrite chokes at critical locations; however, experts
hold that the best solution is to prevent RF by paying close attention to proper
installation.
E – Software Downloads
Once
the physical installation is completed it is time to download the necessary
software. The good news is that it is available for free on the Internet.
Airmail, the communications software supported by Winlink is available at
www.airmail2000.org. Get the version specifically designed for Winlink.
Airmail was developed and is maintained by Jim Corenman, a dedicated cruiser and
radio amateur (KE6RK). Jim has also developed two companion programs. These are
GetFax and ViewFax and are available, also for free, on the same website. These
programs allow, without the use of Winlink access time, the reception and
viewing of weather charts and weather reports. Extremely helpful also is the
ICEPAC Propagation Prediction computer software. It helps in identifying those
Winlink shore stations and frequencies that are within radio range and give the
highest probability of making a successful radio connection. This program can be
downloaded at
http://elbert.its.bldrdoc.gov/pc_hf/hfwin32.html. It is sometimes already
included and interfaced with Airmail. Downloading is best done at home, if
possible, by using a broadband Internet connection. This increases download
speed, improves reliability of proper downloads and facilitates the next stages
that covers the setup, learning and operational phases.
F – Setting up Software
Parameters
Once
the software is downloaded the next step is to enter the parameters for
operating the Winlink system. First launch the Airmail program, go to Tools >
Options > Connection.
(4).
First set up the Modem (TNC) connection. Specify the type of modem installed (PTC
IIe); identify the Comport to which the modem is connected
(5);
and set the baud rate at 38400. Do not place a check in “Show Link Messages”
otherwise you’ll suffer from information overload. Next click on Advanced Modem
Settings, place a check against Reset Modem, Set Modem Tones and Send Morse ID
and set speed at 15 wpm.
(6).Set
TxDelay and CSD at 20 and 25, respectively, and lock the baud rate. Next set the
audio tones Center Frequency to 1500, USB, FSK at 140 and PSK at 170. Finally,
specify how the radio is connected, in this example: Direct via Comport: COM7;
Radio type: Icom-NMEA; Baudrate: 4800; Icom Address (hex) 01; and set dial
offset to 00 – unless it is known that the transceiver is off frequency. On the
Settings tab: Type in your amateur radio call sign. On the transceiver setup set
REMT-ID at 01 and REMT-IF at d-Sub.
G – Learning with TelNet
Next
activate Airmail’s Telnet Client to have the ability to use Winlink via the
Internet during the learning process and before getting on the radio waves.
Click on Modules > Telnet Client > Settings. Prior to this, contact Steve
(K4CJX), the Winlink Administrator, by email for the correct inputs for: (1)
Remote call sign; (2) Remote Host; (3) Port; (4) Time out; (5) password; and (6)
Protocol. Also enter your call sign. Steve’s email address is found on
www.winlink.org.
You are
now ready to prepare your first email message. On the Airmail menu click on the
Icon that shows a blank page that stands for “Format a New Message”. The New
Message window opens up as will the Address Book. On the latter, click on “New”.
Against “Name” type your name and against “To”, type in your Internet Email
address (assuming that you have one. If not, use the address of a close friend).
Click OK and highlight the name as shown in the Address Book Display and click
OK. Next, as usual, enter a subject heading like “First Test Message” and type a
message. Click on the Letterbox Icon that stands for “Post the current message
for sending”. Click on the left most Icon that stands for “Show or Hide the
Folder Tree”. Your outgoing message will be listed on the Outbox Message
outgoing messages index.
There
are two options for sending this trial message. The first test should preferably
be via Telnet. Click on Modules > Telnet Client and then click on the
Green button. This will send the message over the Internet to the selected
“Remote Host”. Thereafter, check your Internet email. Your message should have
arrived within seconds.
(7).
H – On Air learning
and testing
Next it’s time to send a
message over the radio. First click on View > Freq. List and place checks
against those Winlink PMBOs that you are most likely to use. Then click OK. Next
click on Modules > Position Reports and on the Data Input tab enter your
station’s Latitude and Longitude and weather related information (if this is not
automatically provided by your weather instruments). Next click on “Now” at the
Date/Time window. Check and identify the GPS/NMEA port to which the GPS, if any,
is connected (COM1 – direct to the computer). If interfaced with a GPS it would
not have been necessary to enter the coordinates manually. Those who use
RayTech’s Navigational software should check the appropriate box. In the
Winlink2000 tab, provide the brief optional comment that will be shown together
with your position on the APRS. When ready to send a Position Report, and if not
already done, go back to this screen and mark “Manual send” and click on “Send
Now.” In the meantime the coordinates that you entered will be used in the
propagation prediction model. Click on “Close.” Then click on the Terminal icon
or press F6 “Switch to Terminal Window (F6)”.
On the
Terminal window select the PMBO and frequency that you would like to try first.
Next press F8 to view the ICEPAC propagation window. The Propagation window will
show the station that you selected, its distance and compass direction from your
station and, what is more important, which frequency for that station offers the
highest probability of success for making a connection at this particular
moment. Refresh this window by clicking on “Update”. If the station does not
show a suitable frequency for the time of day, try another nearby station in
another compass direction or wait till conditions improve.
(8).If
the transceiver is ON and the connection probability appears good, click on the
green “Connect” button in the left hand top corner of the Terminal window.
Before clicking the Connect button listen whether the frequency is free. When
any manmade signal whatsoever is heard, whether this be voice, digital or CW
(Morse) try another station or wait till the frequency is free. This is common
courtesy for all modes of transmission and is part of the Winlink Code of
Conduct. Once the green button has been clicked, the Terminal window will show
which actions are taking place. A welcome message will show that a radio
connection has been established. Next it will show that your message is being
uploaded to the remote radio station. When done, the system will download any
messages that may be waiting for you. Even as a New User it is not unusual to
receive a message on your first “connect”. This could be an Automatic System
Message informing you, for example, about the status of the worldwide system of
Winlink radio stations. Some stations could be down for maintenance or have been
assigned different frequencies. Once you have successfully received your own
message back and as well as any Automatic System Messages, you know that your
system and procedures are working fine. It’s then time to start learning about
the other great features that Winlink offers. For convenience, it’s best to do
so initially via the Telnet module. This will be faster, is more reliable and is
best during the learning phase. Study those parts of the ample Users Manual
provided in Airmail’s Help menu. There is a lot and printing it all out will
result in too much paper. To continue, carry out some of the housekeeping tasks,
including downloading the most up-to-date Station and Frequency List, as well
as, the latest Catalogue of Weather Reports and Bulletins. The Catalogue is a
complete list of all worldwide weather-related information; Information
Bulletins; the procedure to get Medical and Veterinarian help; and how to get
Piracy Reports; hurricane warnings; and position reports. Next start the
learning process. For example, make a digital photograph, reduce it to 15 – 20
KB and send it to a friend (or yourself) as an attachment to an email message
via Winlink.
I – Grib Files
Those
who use navigational software should study the downloading of GRIB files and
learn with which navigational software packages this works (RayTech Navigator).
Next file a Position Report. When done, you’ll get an automatic response from
Winlink that your Report has been received. Thereafter, you personally or a
family member, can access the Internet as follows: access
www.winlink.org
> click on the link “Position Reporter” > on the next window enter your amateur
call sign > then click on Submit. The
www.FindU.com
website will open up and display your position on maps drawn at several
different scales. For locations in the USA it is possible also to view aerial
photographs and topographic maps. It is possible also to check whether any
others have filed position reports in your immediate vicinity. This is
particularly helpful when there are emergencies that might require help from
other nearby Winlink Users. There are several options for obtaining Position
Reports either at random of for particular travelers that you would like to
follow on the Internet. These are described in the Winlink Bulletins.
J - Conclusion
To
conclude, the foregoing is certainly not an exhaustive summary of all the
technical, operational and financial challenges and opportunities that are
before new Winlink Users. It’s a start. As soon as you are operational over the
radio, other Winlink Users, your Family and Friends and you personally can stay
in touch. Make a shakedown cruise or trial drive, send and receive email, file
position reports and try all the other features that you have practiced via
TelNet. It will improve your safety and comfort and reassure those at home that
while away you are still in touch. These features are important in peaceful
times but even more so during times when international, local or personal
emergencies suddenly arise.
This
article still is a “beta” version. This article, in its totality, applies only
to the particular installation that is discussed. Other system configurations
are necessary with other communication and navigation components. Comments on
this presentation and reports about other installations are welcome.
(9).
AussieWinlink
Updated:
August 30, 2004.
| 
