VARA FM Version 4.01 has been released as of right now

STXARES
1

This is a very significant release. Please read the features below. Note that it is not compatible with the version 3.1.1 release so you must upgrade. It may take a little time for all our SYSOPs to get the new software installed. I suggest each local area manage this transition.

73,

Tom N5TW

******** VARA FM Version 4.0.1 Released******

We are pleased to announce that Jose Alberto Nieto Ros EA5HVK has released VARA FM version 4.0.1 as of 1700UTC November 28, 2020. Highlights of this release are:

  • The addition of a digipeater capability to extend the effective range similar to AX.25 Packet but without collision protection. Up to two digipeaters are supported.
  • Significantly improved weak signal operation through the addition of a lower data rate speed level.
  • Improvements for operation with inexpensive HT radios and through voice repeaters.
  • Various performance enhancements.
  • VARA FM callsign sign display displays station IDs currently using the channel
  • New Ping feature showing VU readings and Signal to Noise Ratios

*** NOTE*** Version 4.0.1 is NOT compatible with previous VARA FM releases. Transition to the new version should be managed locally.

Version 4.0.1 can be found here:

Click here for his website.

Here are the Vara FM 4.0.1 max speed levels capable.

Speeds will be dependent upon sound card interface, RF levels, proper calibration, direct connect and/or number of digipeaters used.

Learn and try to figure out its features by yourself, but post questions to the Winlink Programs Group as needed. Several beta testers will try to help during the day.

2

Tom
What is the preferred operating freq for vara fm, 145.0, 03, ?

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3

Good question. Some prefer to keep separate frequencies for VARA FM and packet but here in central Texas, we have them running on the same frequencies. This allows us to use the same radio / sound card / antenna for both. I just set up a separate instance of RMS Packet and configure it for a VARA FM channel. Likewise, for my station with high antennas, I have setup VARA FM digipeaters again using the same radios / sound cards etc.

You can see the stations we have on the Texas RMS Status page here:

http://n5tw.ecpi.com/rmsstatus

You will see both VARA FM and packet stations listed.

Tom N5TW

4

Is there a cut over date defined so we don’t find ourselves unable to use the system for a while?

Tom Hauer, K0YA
Highland Lakes ARES Emergency Coordinator
319 551-9788

5

No. Suggest managing it at the local level. Here in Williamson County, we are just rapidly converting over. We have left a couple of stations running both versions for the next week. W9BF-10 which you can probably reach is running both versions. We still have packet we can fall back on if need be.

Tom N5TW

6

Thanks Tom! Appreciate everything you do to support us!

7

Thanks Tom.
Mario