I have my VHF node back up in operation. I upgraded from a Yaesu FT-60R (5W) to a Yaesu FT-2900R (set at 25W) connected to a Kantronics KPC-9612+ (v8.1) on port1 at 1200 baud.
I have had PBBS connections to another PBBS (FBBS9:N4YXW via FARA7:W4VA-5) on my Kantronics KPC-9612+ about 23 miles away, now I am trying to get both PBBS and WL2K functional on this VHF node. I am told it will work, if you have a similar setup with a KPC-9612+ -please- contact me!
I need WL2K testers on my VHF node, the 40M HF node is doing fine.
RMS Express version 1.3.7.3 adds the IridiumGO connection option to Winlink.
IridiumGO rental and data plans are becoming less expensive.
An external commercial antenna for the IridiumGO is recommended, or maybe some home brew version for 1.6 GHz.
Receiving satellites is easy nowadays.
See this contact via AMSAT SO-50, using a home brew antenna.
2m and 70cm.
The satellite flies over 90 minutes apart, 3 times in the morning or evening (give or take).
Some of the 66 Iridium satellites are overhead 24/7.