So I passed my General class Ham Radio license test a few weeks ago. The General license expands my privileges into the HF bands. When you hear about people talking to the other side of the world using their radio, it is on HF that they did it.

I passed my General so I would have another method of communications when we are out on the road. Using my new general privileges I will be able to use a data mode called PACTOR to send and receive email. Email is accomplished using a system call Winlink 2000. In short Winlink is a system that was developed to allow ship to shore communications for armature radio operators.

Currently there are over 41 active participating network stations world wide that an end user can connect to to send and receive email. Using this system requires an HF radio as well as a PACTOR controller.

I currently am deciding on our mobile configuration that will be installed in the FJ. However, it will include an HF radio like the Icom IC-7000 or the Yaesu FT-857d, some sort of tunable antenna like a screw drive, and a SCS PTC-IIusb.

The system will be interfaced with our on board computer system I will be able to communicate from anyplace the FJ can take us. Look for updates on the installation over the next few weeks.