Packet Operations Type III, Part A

Course Description

This course is the first part of a two-part course designed to prepare individuals to assemble and operate and existing packet station. Part A (this course) focuses on the individual packet station. It covers the components of a baseline station and how to assemble it and send a message to yourself. Part B is a hands-on class focused on configuring and operating the baseline packet station.

Intended Audience

Hams with experience in emergency communications who are interested in performing Packet Operator duties.

Prerequisites

• Valid Technician class or higher Amateur Radio license
• Field Operations Type III, Part A
• Field Operations Type III, Part B and Type II

NOTE: The above prerequisites are not strictly enforced. But in order to get the most out of this course, you should have previously attended the above courses. If you have not yet attended one or more of the prerequisites, you should carefully review the course materials for the missed prerequisites prior to attending this course. Then, be sure to attend any missed prerequisites at your earliest opportunity.

Format

In person, 3 hours

Students should bring

• Copy of course materials (see below)
• Pen/pencil and pad of paper
• No packet station is required

Learning Objectives

• Describe the MAC Packet Operator qualifications
• Describe the purpose and use of packet communications
• Describe the Santa Clara County BBS network
• Describe the components of the baseline packet station
• Describe the Outpost and PacFORMS software and their basic use
• Assemble, setup, and verify operation of the baseline packet station

Topics Covered

• MAC Packet Operator qualifications
• Packet Network Overview
  • What is Packet?
  • Why do we use it?
• Packet Network Components
  • SCCo BBSs
  • Other Networks
  • Radio frequencies
  • Antennas
  • Radios
  • TNCs
  • PCs
• Baseline Packet Station: hardware and software
• Accessing the Network
• Standard Workflow
• Homework!