Packet Radio

What is it?

If you are completely new to packet radio, then this is the place for you! Maybe the quickest way to describe it is, the internet in slow-motion. Of course, there is a bit more to it than that, but basically, that is very close.

The mechanics are that two or more computers are talking to each other via sound tones. These tones, which are transmitted over the air, are translated into pulses which computers can read. So when one person types "hello" on a machine in location X, another person can read exactly what was typed in location Y.

It is called packet radio because the information is "chopped up" into equal size "chunks," or packets, simiiar to little packages. The packets are sent in small bursts since many people can be on the same channel or frequency at the same time. If two or more people bump into each other, the machines wait a bit and try again. Eventually, the packets get through to their destinations where they are re-assembled into a message.

Of course, packet radio ( Select List) is a complex subject. This "nutshell" explanation should peek your curiosity to learn more, and there is plenty to learn! Above all, it is supposed to be fun. So take it all in and have a blast!

An excellent reference paperback book is "Your Gateway to Packet Radio" by Stan Horzepa, WA1LOU. For an introduction to terminalogy, general concepts, and practical operating hints, this book can be a great help to the novice. It does a good job of relating basic packet switching concepts to real radio applications.