Overview
In the world of emergency communications, redundancy is king. While we often rely on the robust Southwest Community Radio System (SWCRS) repeater network for voice communication, there is a powerful tool in our “comms toolbox” that often goes overlooked: Winlink.
To ensure our members are proficient and our equipment is ready when the grid goes down, we host the Southwest Weekly Winlink Net. Here is everything you need to know about why we do it and how you can get involved.
What is the SWCRS Winlink Net?
The Winlink Net is a weekly “digital check-in” session. Unlike a traditional voice net where you wait for a Net Control Station (NCS) to call your callsign, the Winlink net is asynchronous. It runs every Sunday from 0000 to 2359 GMT.
The goal is simple: send a formatted digital message over radio to prove that your station is capable of sending and receiving data without relying on a traditional internet connection.
Why Should You Participate?
If you’ve ever tried to pass a long list of supplies or a complex medical report over a scratchy voice repeater, you know how easy it is to make mistakes. Winlink allows us to:
- Send 100% Accurate Data: Emails, attachments, and ICS forms arrive exactly as sent.
- Operate Without Internet: Using our network of gateways, your message can reach email systems via radio.
- Skill Proficiency: Digital modes have a steeper learning curve than FM voice. Checking in weekly ensures that your software is updated and your cables are working before an emergency strikes.
The Technical Setup
The SWCRS Winlink network is built for speed and efficiency. To participate, we recommend the following:
- Client: Winlink Express (The gold standard for Windows users).
- Protocol: VARA FM or VARA HF. We specifically use VARA because of its high speed and ability to monitor for existing traffic, preventing us from “stepping” on other users.
- Hardware: A computer connected to your Amateur radio via a soundcard interface (like a DigiRig, SignaLink, or built-in USB interface).
How to Check In
Participating is easy! During the net window (Sundays, 0000–2359 GMT):
- Open Winlink Express and compose a new message.
- Address the message to the Net Control Station: N7WSS.
- Use the Standard Template: Navigate to Select Template > General Forms > Winlink Check-in.txt.
- Fill out the form: Include your callsign, location, and the mode you are using (e.g., VARA FM via N7GMR-2).
- Post to Outbox and start a session to send the message via one of the SWCRS RMS gateways (like the Pinal Peak or Mt. Lemmon gateways) or any RMS gateway you have access to.
Join the Distribution List
Once you send your first check-in to N7WSS, you’ll be added to our weekly distribution list. You’ll receive a roster of all successful check-ins, allowing you to see the reach of our network across the Southwest.
Whether you are a seasoned digital operator or just bought your first DigiRig, we invite you to join us this Sunday. Let’s keep the Southwest connected!
For more technical guides on setting up your station, visit the SWCRS Winlink Network page.