TCP/IP - Getting on the Air

Introduction to Packet Radio Part 16.

INTRODUCTION Getting your station set up for TCP/IP operation will require some time and effort on your part. You just can't put a disk in your computer and go on the air. You have to get an IP address, set up specific directories, get some needed files, and make up a few necessary files for your own operation. You also need a TNC that operates in KISS mode. Most now have the KISS command available, but check your TNC operating manual before you start anything else to ensure that the KISS command is available in your TNC. Also while you have the manual out, learn how to use the KISS command; it works differently from most commands you're familiar with.

THE SOFTWARE The first thing you need, of course, is the software. The KA9Q Internet Package, commonly called NET, is the most common program in use today. There are versions available for the PC and clones, the Macintosh, Amiga and Unix. Where do you get it? The easiest source is a local ham that has a copy of the version you need. Put a message on your local BBS to see if there is anyone in your area that is already on TCP/IP. Not only will you be able to get the software from him, but you'll have someone to ask questions of if you have problems.

The Tucson Amateur Packet Radio Association (TAPR) has the version for the PC and clones available for $4.00. This is a special "Plug and Play" set of disks with sample files included along with instructions for setting up your hard drive with the proper directories. You can write to them at TAPR, PO Box 12925, Tucson, AZ 85732, or call them at (602) 749-9479.

If you have a telephone modem, there are several sources available to you. You can download the package from some of the ham related telephone BBSs. It's available from Dennis Humphrey, WA6RDH's BBS in California at (916) 678-1535, from Howard Leadmon, WB3FFV's BBS in Maryland at (301)-335-0858, or from Gary Sanders, N8EMR's BBS in Ohio at (614)-457-4227. All accept 1200/2400, 8 bits, no parity, 1 stop bit. The software is also available from Compuserve in the Hamnet section. If you have a DRSI plug-in TNC, you already have what you need. A copy of the TCP/IP software that has already been configured for use with the DRSI card was included with it.

IP ADDRESS
In addition to the software, you also need to obtain an IP address. This is a series of numbers that will uniquely identify your station on the air. To get an address assigned you need to contact the IP address coordinator in your area. Ask around to find out who the local coordinator is, or contact Brian Kantor, WB6CYT, the national IP address coordinator, at 7108 Werner Street, San Diego, CA 92122.

Send the following information with your request:
* Your first name, last name and callsign.
* Your full mailing address.
* The city where your TCP/IP station is going to be located.
* Whether or not it's a home or work location.
* The callsign of your home BBS.
* Your Internet address, if you have one.

FILES NEEDED
A copy of the HOSTS.NET file is also required. It's available for downloading on many of the packet BBSs. Check for a TCP/IP directory using the W command. If you can't locate the file, ask your local sysop for assistance. The file is fairly lengthy, so plan on spending a little time downloading it. The HOSTS.NET file is used by the NET software to look up the IP address for each station you wish to contact, so you'll need it before you go on the air with your TCP/IP station.

If you're using the PC/clone version of NET, I strongly suggest that you also get a copy of the file BEGIN.DOC, written by Gary Ford, N6GF. It explains what you need to do to set up your station in clear, easy to understand terminology and then goes into details on all of the commands used with the NET program. There is documentation that comes with the software, but I found it to be difficult to understand in many places. It also isn't as complete as Gary's and the descriptions of some of the functions are missing. Gary's documentation takes all of the guess work out of the process.


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