HOW TO GET STARTED.

How to get started in Packet Radio

To get started in Packet Radio doesn't need to be a costly experience!!
A basic Packet set-up can consist of a Baycom type modem, which you can build yourself
for the cost of about £50, a computer, CB radio, antenna and power supply.

A Computer

Basically any computer will do, Amiga, Commodore 64, Atari, or IBM PC,
although the accepted standard is probably the PC. Communications software can be
obtained easily from any good shareware supplier.

A Radio

The same thing applies here, most radios will do the job. Most European countries now
use 40 channel c.e.p.t. radios (mid-band to us UK users!) which operate on the frequency
range 26.965 Mhz to 27.405 Mhz
These radios are usually marked somewhere with the following type approval symbols:

CEPT PR27 GB, PR27 GB, CEPT PR 27 GB, MPT 1333, or ETS 300 135

A TNC or Modem

A TNC can be purchased at any Amateur Radio outlet, although these can be far more
expensive than a modem which can be purchased complete or be constructed at home.
TNC prices start from around £120.00. Some common types are AEA's PK232, Kantronics Tiny2 etc.
Modem prices start from around £40.00 and can be obtained from Maplins, Baycom
and Tigertronics etc.

If you have comments or suggestions, email me at [email protected]

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