The Antietam Amateur Radio Association (ARA) of Hagerstown MD is sponsoring WinLink 2000 Training THIS SATURDAY (MAY 11), 2019. Seats are still available for both ARA and Non-Members; the updated portion of this announcement are in the details:
WinLink 2000 Training Class:
The Antietam Radio Association is sponsoring a hands-on WinLink 2000 (WL2K) Training Class this Saturday May 11, presented by ARRL Maryland-DC Section Emergency Coordinator Jim Montgomery, WB3KAS. WinLink 2000 (WL2K) combines radio and Internet connectivity to allow worldwide email-over-radio capability, with the radio transparent to the user. WL2K figures prominently in emergency and contingency communications support:
" WinLink is...a worldwide radio email service that uses radio pathways where the Internet is not present, and is capable of operating completely without the internet--automatically--using smart-network radio relays. WinLink provides its users email with attachments, position reporting, weather and information bulletins, and is well-known for its role in emergency and disaster relief communications."
- winlink.org
Attendees will load software files and applications onto their personal computers and receive user training that will equip them to use the WinLink service.
Advanced Registration is Required:
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Class size is limited to 20 people.
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Sign-ups are first come, first served.
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Antietam Radio Association Members will be given first preference for 50% of the seats.
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We will try to accommodate all who are interested by giving repeat classes, if necessary, at later date(s).
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As of Monday May 6, Seats are still available for both ARA Members and Non-Members
How to Register:
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Email: Steve Struharik WA8EIH at: struhariks@gmail.com or wa8eih@arrl.net
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Please include "WinLink 2000 Training" in the subject line
Equipment Required:
PC architecture notebook computer, running whatever Windows versions Microsoft supports. From the WinLink website: https://winlink.org/WinlinkExpress:
System Requirements: Microsoft-supported 32 or 64 bit Windows OS (Windows Vista, Windows 7, 8, 10 or Windows 2003 Server, or later, or under Windows on Apple Mac and Linux machines using a VM engine or dual boot arrangement. Windows XP is not recommended nor supported. The program makes minimal CPU demands with the exception of WINMOR operation. The heavy DSP demands of WINMOR require a computer of at least 700 MHz Pentium/Celeron class and at least 512 Meg of memory. It runs well on all modern computers and Windows tablets. If multiple applications are running concurrently, we recommend a fast computer with extra RAM.
There are some people who have gotten WinLink to work on their MACs using CrossOver software ... see the link below (proceed at your own risk)
https://n2al.us/amateur-radio/how-to-setup-rms-express-on-os-x-apple/
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Wi-Fi capability. Software files will be accessed via Wi-Fi. The class can use the building Wi-Fi network, but bringing your own internet hot spot, if you have one, will speed up your access and help your classmates too.
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Limited AC outlets will be available, so charge your batteries. Bring your charger if you think you may need it, and we will try to accommodate you.
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VHF/UHF handheld radio with internal TNC interface: Not required, but useful if you have it. For example, Kenwood D72, D74, or D710, which have internal TNC's. Larger radios and power supplies are not encouraged because they clutter the tabletop workspace. Remember to bring the associated cables to connect to your computer.
We hope to see you there!
73,
Steve Struharik WA8EIH
ARA Activities Coordinator
Training Class Event Details: