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Crawford Tx Packet Node

Node Specifications – W5AWW Crawford, TX (EM11hn)​

System Overview

This document outlines the technical specifications for the W5AWW Packet Node located in Crawford, Texas (Grid Square EM11hn). This node operates on the LinBPQ Packet Switch System (Version 6.0.25.13), providing both VHF and HF access points for BBS and Chat services.

The system is designed for robust digipeating and local connectivity.

RF Access Points

Operators can access the node via two distinct frequencies depending on propagation conditions and equipment:

  1. VHF Port (Port 1)

    • Frequency: 145.030 MHz
    • Modulation: 1200 bps AFSK (VHF 2 meters)
    • Call Sign: W5AWW-7
    • Usage: Primary local access. Ideal for mobile and portable operations within line-of-sight range.
    • Protocol: AX.25 via KISS interface.

  2. HF Port (Port 2)

    • Frequency: 7.104 MHz (40 Meters)
    • Modulation: 300 bps AFSK
    • Call Sign: W5AWW-8
    • Usage: Long-distance connectivity. Suitable for regional contacts when VHF propagation is limited.
    • Protocol: AX.25 via KISS interface.

Hardware Configuration

  • Transceiver: Yaesu FTM-400 (Dual Band)
  • TNC/Modem: Dire Wolf 1.9 software TNC interfaced via DigiRig Mobile.
  • Antenna: Tram 3-Piece Vertical (2m/70cm), mounted at 7 meters.
  • Controller: LinBPQ running on local hardware with Telnet capabilities for remote IP access.

Services & Applications

  • BBS (Application 1): Accessible via callsign W5AWW-11 (Alias: CTXBBS). Supports standard FBB protocol for message storage and forwarding.
  • Chat (Application 2): Accessible via callsign W5AWW-12 (Alias: CTXCHT). Multi-user chat room for real-time coordination.
  • APRS Digipeater: The node functions as an APRS digipeater (Call: W5AWW-7), beaconing position data and relaying APRS packets with a status message: --[LinBPQ Node EM11hn]--. It accepts WIDE and TRACE paths with a maximum of 2 hops.

Connection Instructions

  • Radio Users: Tune to 145.030 MHz (1200 baud) or 7.104 MHz (300 baud). Connect to W5AWW-7 or W5AWW-8 respectively. Once connected, type NODES to view reachable neighbors or BBS / CHAT to access specific applications.
  • Telnet Users: Remote access is available via TCP Port 8201 (Secure Telnet) or Port 8101 (FBB Protocol) for authorized users within the configured local net or via specific routing.

Sysop Contact

  • Sysop: W5AWW
  • Location: Crawford, TX
  • Status: Operational. Access granted to all licensed amateurs.

For the latest node status and heard stations, please connect directly or check your area on the map at nodes.upacketradio.network