Middle Georgia Data Network

Packet Radio

Packet radio is a digital communication mode used by amateur radio operators (hams) to send data over radio frequencies using a computer and a terminal node controller (TNC) or modern software equivalents. It works much like email or messaging over the airwaves, using protocols like AX.25 to format and transmit information.

Packet radio is especially useful for sending text messages, bulletins, and even weather or emergency data without relying on the internet or phone networks. It's widely used in emergency communications (EMCOMM), remote telemetry, APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System), and supporting amateur radio networks like BBSs and chat nodes. In essence, packet radio lets hams build and use a resilient, decentralized digital network—all with just radios, antennas, and a bit of tech know-how.

In Middle Georgia, amateur radio operators have built a reliable data network that allows for communications any time, all across our area.

Frequency

The Middle Georgia Data Network operates on 145.030 MHz.

Node Listings

Nodes are listed with Callsign-SSID and (ALIAS)
You may connect to either.

KN4DS-1 (PXEBBS) Packet BBS
at Lake Joy
Route via KQ4DVS-7 or HOCO
KN4DS-5 (PXECHT) Chat Server
at Lake Joy
Route via KQ4DVS-7 or HOCO
KN4DS-7 (LKJOY) Primary Node
at Lake Joy
Route via KQ4DVS-7 or HOCO
NOTE: Node runs BPQ, requires a PORT number for the MHEARD (MH) command. Use MH 1
KN4DS-10 (PXERMS) RMS Gateway
at Lake Joy
Route via KQ4DVS-7 or HOCO
KQ4DVS-7 Network Access Node/Digipeater
near Lake Joy Rd and Russell Pkwy
AE4XO-7 (HOCO) Network Access Ndoe/Digipeater
N4ARY-1 PBBS
at Bonaire
N4ARY-7 Network Access Node
at Bonaire
N4ARY-10 RMS Relay (WinLink)
at Bonaire

Useful Links

Equipment

SignaLink USB - USB soundcard device to connect to your computer, allowing use of digital modes - cables/instructions available for virtually all radios.
DigiRig - USB soundcard device to connect to your computer, allowing use of digital modes - cables/instructions available for virtually all radios.

Software

UZ7HO Soundmodem - software that emulates a hardware TNC, allowing packet radio using a soundcard interface
DireWolf Software TNC - software to emulate a hardware TNC, which allows you to use packet radio with just your soundcard interfaced to your radio.
EasyTerm Terminal Program - an easy to use terminal program that allows you to connect to other packet stations.