WL2K for the "Digitally Challenged"

by Bud Thompson, N0IA.

This is not a book, but an on-line course of instruction for those serious about learning how to use the EmComm “last mile” portion of Winlink 2000, but who also may feel "digitally challenged." In this course, it is possible to set up and experience WL2K e-mail over Amateur Radio without a data modem (TNC) or a radio. All that is required is a Microsoft Windows 2000 Pro (or better) computer, Internet access, and a valid Amateur Radio License.

To take this short course, and have lessons delivered by regular email, you must join the Yahoo Group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LOADING_WL2K_USER_PROGRAMS/ moderated by N0IA, ‘Bud’ Thompson. You download the lessons from the file area of the group, and Bud and the gurus answer any questions and help you address any problems. You will work through several assignments at your own pace, and then determine if you wish to get further involved with a TNC and compatible radio over the air!

REVISED course now includes Paclink user software!
Here is a preview of the assignments:

• ASSIGNMENT #1 - Collecting Information and Cataloging Equipment

  Estimated time - 10 Minutes or less

• ASSIGNMENT #2 - Programs Required For WL2K E-mail

  Estimated time - 30 minutes or less

• ASSIGNMENT #3 - Installing and Configuring the Winpack Program

  (Windows 95, 98, 2000, XP, Vista) Testing to be sure needed ports are open in firewall/router out to the internet. No TNC required.

  Estimated time 20 to 45 minutes.

• ASSIGNMENT #4 (Airmail) - Installing and configuring the Airmail Program, creating an Internet Access (Telnet) link, making your first WL2K connection, getting registered for a WL2K e-mail account, and your first E-mail with Airmail. (Windows 95, 98, 2000, XP, Vista) No TNC required.

  Estimated time 30 – 60 minutes.

• ASSIGNMENT #4 (Paclink) - Installing the Paclink program, registering for a WL2K account, configuring a connect channel for Telnet Client, configuring your WL2K E-mail account in Outlook Express (OE,) and sending your first E-mail using WL2K.

  Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes after reading the introductory information.

• ASSIGNMENT #5 - Confirming the TNC Works

  REQUIRED: TNC with RS-232 to computer com port. (Sound Card applications not covered here.) No radio required.

  Time required – Minutes if the TNC is working – wasted hours if not!

• ASSIGNMENT #6 (Airmail) – Configuring a TNC in Airmail.

  REQUIRED: TNC that is supported by Airmail and works with a com port on this computer.

• ASSIGNMENT #6 (Paclink) - Installing and configuring AGW Packet Engine free and establishing a Paclink MP AGW channel to use a TNC with AGW Packet Engine.

  TNC required. No radio required.

  Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes.

• ASSIGNMENT #7 (Paclink) – Configuring a Paclink Packet TNC channel.

  REQUIRED: TNC that is supported by Paclink MP and works on a comport on this computer. Radio not required.