VARA FM Version 4.01 Released

VARA Speed Levels

We are pleased to announce that Jose Alberto Nieto Ros EA5HVK has released VARA FM version 4.01 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 4.01 is NOT compatible with previous VARA FM releases. Transition to the new version should be managed locally.

Download version 4.01 here.

Speeds shown in the table above will be dependent upon your sound card interface, RF levels, proper calibration, direct connect and/or number of digipeaters used.

Please post questions to the Winlink Programs Group as needed. Several beta testers who are present there will try to help during the day.

--The Winlink Team

This is a BIG DEAL: VARA FM with Real Digipeating

Download a sneak preview from here... Winlink Express on the left and right, digi in the middle top.
The author, Jose Alberto Nieto Ros, has added the ability to digipeat VARA FM in an upcoming version (available soon, beta testing about to begin). Testing shows it works beautifully! And so fast!

FCC Grants 60-day Waiver Permitting Pactor 4 Use for Disaster Relief

September 17, 2020 -- The FCC has granted ARRL's request for a temporary waiver to permit amateur data transmissions at a higher symbol rate than currently permitted by section 97.307(f) of the FCC amateur service rules. The FCC acted to facilitate hurricane and wildfire relief communications within the US and its territories.

ARRL sought the waiver for amateur radio licensees directly involved with hurricane and wildfire relief via HF using PACTOR 4 modems for communication within the US and its territories, relative to several impending hurricane situations and wildfires in the western US. ARRL's petition noted that Section 97.307(f) of the amateur rules prevents the use of PACTOR 4, a data protocol that permits relatively high-speed data transmission. ARRL also noted that past FCC temporary waivers have allowed this protocol during similar events. The waiver is limited to 60 days and is for use by amateurs involved in communications in support of US western wildfire relief and hurricane recovery.

The Winlink Team asks that all amateur RMS stations capable of operating on PACTOR 4 please enable this capability immediately, and disable it in 60 days.

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