I was wondering about information using VarAC FM. Know there has been some discussion in ARES and RACES about the capabilities in an emergency situation. Should anyone have any insight or good links to information, I would really appreciate direction.
Thanks,
Jim Hanks
This link looks good to me
Hi Jim,
I assume you are referring to VHF/UHF operations?
In that case we may need Vara digipeaters?
The emcomm section here
https://www.varac-hamradio.com/emcomm
states operations down to -20dB SNR, but that is for direct messages. If you want to use broadcast it is more like -10dB.
Yes, VHF/UHF operations. Have been playing with HF but thought FM maybe advantageous for more local use. Another way Robertson Co. & Brazos Co. ARES & RACES could pass information. Attempting to generate some local interest so we can start training and evaluating.
Setting up a VARA FM digipeater:
Download and install v4. 0.1 start Winlink** and in Winlink open a VARA FM P2P session. In the Vara Modem box (the one with the gauges) click on Settings, Vara Setup and put your callsign in the box titled Digipeater, click on close.Nov 30, 2020Download and install v4. 0.1 start Winlink** and in Winlink open a VARA FM P2P session. In the Vara Modem box
I am not aware of any VARA FM digipeaters in Austin area, but seems pretty easy.
Lew W5IFQ