[aprssig] Conected Packet

[VE7GDH]

Bob WB4APR said On 28/12/2004 over on the UI-View list...

> Now that APRS is getting many new people involved in
> packet radio, it might be time to revitalize the normal
> packet BBS node system in support of local CONNECTED
> packet and computer linking as well.

(I think his suggestion warrants being made here too.... )

Bob, I think that is a terrific idea. The huge disaster that is taking place around the Indian Ocean shows how certain types of communication could have saved a significant number of lives. If there was an early warning for tsunami's in all the countries affected by the Boxing Day earthquake, the tragedy would have been lessened considerably. Having a revitalized packet system would be yet another way that amateur radio operators could help in some way while reactivating a part of the hobby that attracted a lot of people in the past. Breathing new life into connected packet isn't going to replace government operated tsunami early warning systems that are bound to start springing up at least in countries that can afford it, but it will be a means for hams to provide communications in a time of need. There's always HF, but you can't count on the sun cooperating.

Just as the active packet community from the 90s gave birth to APRS, we can now turn the tables and encourage activity in regular connected packet again. As well, APRS will benefit by it helping to familiarize those getting into APRS without prior packet experience a chance to see the other side of packet. There must be many hams that have a spare radio or TNC kicking around. The addition of a backup power supply that can run for some time independent of the AC mains at strategic locations would also be an asset in times of emergency.

73 es cul - Keith VE7GDH
--
"I may be lost, but I know exactly where I am!"