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LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 1 LAN-LINK Copyright (c) 1988, 1989, 1990 by G3ZCZ All Rights Reserved Joe Kasser G3ZCZ POB 3419 Silver Spring Md., 20918, U.S.A. (301) 593 6136 U.S.A. Packet BBS Routing G3ZCZ @ N4QQ World Packet BBS Routing G3ZCZ @ N4QQ.MD.USA.NA _______ ____|__ | (tm) --| | |------------------- | ____|__ | Association of | | |_| Shareware |__| o | Professionals -----| | |--------------------- |___|___| MEMBER LAN-LINK is a Personal Packet Terminal Program for the TNC1, TNC2, KPC-2 and most of all a smart multimode digital communica- tions controller for the KAM, MFJ1278 and the PK-232. LAN-LINK is written and supported by Joe Kasser, G3ZCZ. The program is distributed as a Shareware product. You may freely copy and share the product for noncommercial use, with your friends, associates and other radio hams. If you decide to use the product, you are asked to become a registered user by com- pleting the registration form and sending it, and $35.00 or equivalent in foreign currency to the author. Upon receipt of your registration, you will receive one free update disk, telephone and mail (electronic and regular) support. This product may not be sold or distributed with another product without the express written permission of Joe Kasser, G3ZCZ. Joe Kasser, G3ZCZ will only support unmodified copies of this software. Your comments and suggestions for changes are however welcome. If you are the first to suggest a change that is imple- mented, you will be sent a complimentary copy of the disk with the change incorporated. Potential Commercial Users please contact Joe Kasser directly for modifications and/or details of Site licensing. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS 1.1.1 Packet Radio 1.1.2 AMTOR 1.1.3 Morse/BAUDOT/ASCII 2.0 Getting Started 2.1 Bringing LAN-LINK Up the First Time 2.2 Using the Quick Menu 2.3 Connecting to Other Stations 2.4 Upgrading from YAPP 2.5 Using Different TNCs 2.6 Using Different HF and VHF Configuration Files 2.7 Using the AMTOR/PACKET Robot/Automatic Contest Station 3.0 Things You Should Know 3.1 Memory Requirements 3.2 PC to TNC Communications 3.3 Open Loop 3.4 Problems 3.5 The Contents of the Status Window 3.6 Logbooks 4.0 Function Keys 4.1 Capture to Disk Toggle 4.2 Send Brag Tape 4.3 Transmit Callsign Sequence 4.4 Send/talk Brag Tape 4.5 Show Packet MHlist and Point and Shoot Connect 4.6 Auto CQ Call 4.7 Activate Type Ahead Buffer/AMTOR Relink 4.8 Disconnect/Receive 4.9 Put TNC in CMD Mode 4.10 Put TNC in CONVERSE /Transmit Mode /AMTOR FEC 4.11 Alternate Function Keys 4.12 Shift Function Keys 4.13 Control Function Keys 5.0 Main Menu 5.1 Quick Menu 5.2 Auto CQ 5.3 Send Brag Tape 5.4 Call Someone 5.5 Log Menu 5.6 Change Mode 5.7 Call CQ 5.8 Send/Talk File 5.9 QRZ 5.10 Send/Talk LAN-LINK files 001..010 LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 3 6.0 BBS Menu 6.1 Download Text Files 7.0 Call Menu 7.1 Alert Call/ARQ Call 7.2 Connect/Call 7.3 Enter Call 7.4 reMember Path 7.5 Packet Cluster 7.6 Call CQ 7.7 Retry 7.8 Show Directory 7.9 Target Call 7.10 aUto CQ 7.11 Toggle DX Flag 7.12 Zap BBS 8.0 Edit Menu 8.1 Edit Brag Tape 8.2 Edit Call Directory File 8.3 Edit any other file 8.4 Answer Ctdsk File (Split Screen) 8.5 Answer Incoming Messages (Split Screen) 8.6 Leave Note for Someone 8.7 Edit Capture-to-Disk File 8.8 Edit Two files (Split Screen) 8.9 Edit LAN-LINK.SYS File 8.10 Edit LAN-LINK.001 through LAN-LINK.010 files 8.11 Pick Capture-to-disk to Edit 8.12 Pick Message file to Edit 9.0 Event/Clock Menu 9.1 Set Alarm 9.2 Connect 9.3 Display Event 9.4 Periodic Event 9.5 Turn Robot ON/OFF 9.6 Turn Contest Mode ON/OFF 9.7 Time Display ON/OFF 9.8 Cancel Event 9.9 Zap BBS 10.0 Files Menu 10.1 Send Brag Tape 10.2 File Directory 10.3 Erase File 10.4 Rename File 10.5 Send File 10.6 Send/Talk File 10.7 Send Uppercase File 10.8 View File 10.9 View Runfile LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 4 10.10 View Incoming Messages 11.0 Help Menu 12.0 Jump to Dos 13.0 LAN-LINK Menu 13.1 :QBU: External Protocols 13.2 :QBM: File 13.3 :QSM: File 13.4 :QSP: Message 13.5 :QDB: File 13.6 :QRU: Messages 13.7 :QRA: Who is "ON-LINE" 13.8 :QTA: Messages 14.0 Log Menu Log Mode Function Keys 14.0.1 Alt-A Append Entry 14.0.2 Alt-E Edit Log Entry 14.0.3 Alt-F Find an Entry 14.0.4 Alt-S Scan Log by Call 14.0.5 Alt-U Toggle Delete Mark 14.0.6 Alt-Z Pack Log 14.0.7 Ins Toggle Insert Mode 14.0.8 End Show Last Page 14.0.9 Home Show First Page 14.0.10 PgUp Move Up One Page 14.0.11 PgDn Move Down One Page 14.0.12 Up Arrow Move Up One Entry 14.0.13 Down Arrow Move Down One Entry 14.1 Append Entry 14.2 Scan Log by Band 14.3 Change Log 14.4 Find Date 14.5 Edit Log Entry 14.6 Find an Entry 14.7 Import-Convert Log 14.8 Help Function Keys 14.9 Scan Log by Mode 14.10 Print Log 14.11 Scan Log by Call 14.12 Update from Old data 14.13 Exit From Log Menu 14.14 Fuzzy Scan 15.0 Message Menu 15.1 BBS Command Files 15.2 Current Messages 15.3 View Message 15.4 Leave Note 15.5 Old Messages LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 5 15.6 Time Tag 16.0 TNC Menu 16.1 Set TNC Date/Time 16.2 Flush TNC Buffer 16.3 Initialize TNC 16.4 Show Calls Monitored List 16.5 Show Connect Status 16.6 Change CTEXT 16.7 Acitivate TNC Mailbox 16.8 Deactivate TNC Mailbox 17.0 AMSAT-OSCAR Menu 17.1 UoSAT ASCII Beacon 17.2 Phase 3 RTTY Beacon 17.3 SAREX Menu 17.3 1 Attack Mode ON/OFF 17.3.2 Change SAREX Call 17.3.3 SAREX Packets Capture to Disk ON/OFF 17.4 SAREX Orbiter Features 18.0 Parameter Menu 18.1 Turn Beacon Mode ON/OFF 18.2 Clear Connect Count 18.3 Turn Digipeat Detect ON/OFF 18.4 Turn Beacon Control ON/OFF 18.5 Turn Command Echo ON/OFF 18.6 Change Keyboard Beep Count 18.7 Set Message Count 18.8 Turn NODE Drop Link ON/OFF 18.9 Turn Printer ON/OFF 18.10 Turn QTC Snatch ON/OFF 18.11 Turn :QSP: Relay Flag ON/OFF 18.12 Turn Sound ON/OFF 18.13 Turn Contest Mode ON/OFF 18.14 Turn DCD Flag ON/OFF 18.15 Turn BBS Snatch ON/OFF 18.16 Turn Time Id. ON/OFF 18.17 Turn Automatic Capture-to-Disk Flag ON/OFF 18.18 Change BBS Parameters 18.18.1 Local BBS Callsign 18.18.2 Mail-Snatch Trigger Word 18.18.3 Read Request Command 18.19 Change Callsigns 18.19.1 Callsign 18.19.2 The SELCAL 18.19.3 The PacketCluster Call 18.20 Change Directories 18.20.1 QBM Download Directory 18.21 Enter Common Calls 18.22 Change File Names 18.22.1 VHF Logbook File (VHF.DBF) LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 6 18.22.2 HF Logbook File (HF.DBF) 18.22.3 Path Directory File (LAN-LINK.DIR) 18.22.4 Brag Tape (LAN-LINK.TXT) 18.22.5 QBU Upload File Name (QBU-TX.BAT) 18.22.6 QBU Download File Name (QBU-RX.BAT) 18.23 Change LAN-LINK Parameters 18.23.1 Change CQ Text 18.23.2 Set the Default Band 18.23.3 Set the Default Transmitter Power 18.23.4 Set CQ Delay Time Seconds 18.23.5 Set CQ Delay Time Minutes 18.23.6 Set Number of Lines in a Non Contest CQ Call 18.23.7 Set Shut Down Mode (QRT Flag) 18.23.7.1 QRT 18.23.7.2 QRV 18.23.7.3 QRV + CTEXT TOGGLE 18.23.7.4 BBS 18.23.7.5 SOLO 18.23.7.6 BBS+SOLO 18.23.8 Set Default Users 18.24 Change PC Communications Parameters 18.24.1 The Communications Port 18.24.2 The Terminal Baud Rate 18.24.3 TNC Data Bits 18.24.4 TNC Parity 18.24.5 Number of TNC Stop Bits 18.25 Change Colors 18.25.1 OutWindow Color 18.25.2 StatusWindow Color 18.25.3 PromptWindow Color 18.25.4 LogWindow Color 18.25.5 InWindow Color 18.25.6 ScrollBackWindow color 18.25.7 MHWindow Color 18.25.8 Alarmwindow Color 18.25.9 BottomWindow Color 18.25.10 Emphasis Color 18.25.11 Prompt Color 18.25.12 Option Color 18.25.13 Connected Text Color 18.25.14 Computer Color 18.25.15 VHF Header Color 18.25.16 HF Header Color 18.25.17 Alert Call Color 18.25.18 Outgoing Text Color 18.25.19 Multi I/O Stream Color[1] 18.25.20 Multi I/O Stream Color[2] 18.25.21 Multi I/O Stream Color[3] 18.25.22 Multi I/O Stream Color[4] 18.25.23 Multi I/O Stream Color[5] 18.25.24 Multi I/O Stream Color[6] 18.25.25 Multi I/O Stream Color[7] LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 7 18.25.26 Multi I/O Stream Color[8] 18.25.27 Multi I/O Stream Color[9] 18.25.28 Multi I/O Stream Color[10] 18.26 Change SAREX Parameters 18.26.1 SAREX CallSign 18.26.2 Change SAREX Capture to Disk File 18.27 Update LAN-LINK.SYS 18.28 Verify Changes 18.29 Change Scan Words 18.30 Turn Misc. Flag ON/OFF 18.30.1 All Modes:- Debug or state-sequence numbers 18.30.2 BAUDOT Mode:- Navy MARS Protocol Verify 18.31 Change Band/Mode 18.32 Zap BBS on Next Mail Beacon 18.33 BBS Zap, Don't Disconnect After Sequence 19.0 Q Codes [NC/L] 20.0 Communications Modes 20.1 VHF PACKET 20.2 HF PACKET 20.3 ASCII (RTTY) 20.4 BAUDOT (RTTY) 20.5 MORSE (CW) 20.6 AMTOR (STANDBY RECEIVE) 20.7 AMTOR (ALIST [CHIRPCOPY]) 20.8 SIGNAL 20.9 NAVTEX 21.0 Terminal Mode Menu 21.1 Packet Terminal Menu 21.1.1 Change Packet Baud Rate 21.1.2 CQ/Beacons 21.1.3 Everything 21.1.4 Read the Mail 21.1.5 Just My Station (Solo) 21.1.6 All Traffic 21.1.7 Single User Connects 21.1.8 Multiple User Connects 21.1.9 Conference 21.1.10 Conference Bridge On/Off 21.2 AMTOR Terminal Menu 21.2.1 Force Break [ACHG] 21.2.2 Start Mode B [FEC] 21.2.3 Force LETTERS case 21.2.4 Read the Mail [ALISTEN] 21.2.5 Override ROBOT/Mailbox 21.2.6 Standby Receive [ARQ] 21.2.7 Set ROBOT/Mailbox 21.2.8 CW Identification 21.2.9 Set ROBOT infinite Delay LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 8 21.3 Baudot Terminal Menu 21.3.1 Set Baud Rate 21.3.2 Select Shift 21.3.3 NAVY MARS Message Protocol 21.3.4 USOS On/Off 21.3.5 SELCAL set/reset 21.3.6 CW Identification 21.4 ASCII Terminal Menu 21.4.1 Set Baud Rate 21.4.2 Select Shift 21.4.3 SELCAL On/Off 21.4.4 CW Identification 21.5 CW Terminal Menu 21.5.1 Lock to Receive Signal 21.5.2 Set Morse Speed 21.5.3 Unlock Morse Speed 22.0 eXit to DOS 23.0 Hot Key Combinations 23.1 Alt-A - Alert Call (Packet)/ARQ Call/Talk (AMTOR) 23.2 Alt-B - Send Break/AMTOR Changeover 23.3 Alt-C - Call/Connect to 23.4 Alt-D - Disconnect or Receive 23.5 Alt-E - Enter Call 23.6 Alt-F - Flush TNC Buffer 23.7 Alt-J - Jump to DOS Shell 23.8 Alt-K - Jump to DOS Shell with Quick Return 23.9 Alt-L - Edit Log 23.10 Alt-M - Message Scan 23.11 Alt-N - Multi Connect Stream Next 23.12 Alt-O - Turn Robot On 23.13 Alt-P - Turn Printer ON/OFF 23.14 Alt-Q - Call QRZ 23.15 Alt-R - Retry Call/Connect 23.16 Alt-S - Scan Log 23.17 Alt-X - Exit to DOS 23.18 Alt-Y - Zap Packet Cluster 23.19 Alt-Z - Zap BBS 23.20 Alt-= - Toggle Miscellaneous Flag 23.21 End - > +? [Over] 23.22 PgUp - Scrollback (Scrolls back incoming text) 23.23 The HOME Key 23.24 The DOWN ARROW Key 23.25 Shift/Baudrate Control keys 23.26 Control-Z (Ctrl-Z or ^Z) 24.0 LAN-LINK Disk files 24.1 LAN-LINK.EXE 24.2 LAN-LINK.SYS 24.3 *.RUN (YYMMDD.RUN) 24.4 *.DBF (VHF.DBF and HF.DBF) LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 9 24.5 LAN-LINK.DIR 24.6 CONFIG.SYS 24.7 *.MBX 24.8 *.BBS 24.9 LAN-LINK.001 .. LAN-LINK.010 24.10 QBU-RX.BAT 24.11 QBU-TX.BAT 24.12 LAN-LINK.QTA 25.0 Mailbox features 25.1 Answering Machine 25.2 Mail Beacon (Annunciator) 25.3 How to leave a message 25.4 Remote Beacon shutdown APPENDIX 1. Anomalies and Bugs A1.1 Command/Converse Mode anomalies A1.2 Buffer messages in AMTOR Beacon CQ Mode A1.3 FEC +? responses in AMTOR Beacon CQ Mode A1.4 Using a CGA card with a monochrome monitor A1.5 The Packet Conference Mode A1.6 Packet Conference Mode disconnects A1.7 Strange Events A1.8 *** DISCONNECTED A1.9 *** CONNECTED A1.10 Greek Characters on Incoming Screen A1.11 Dumb TNC A1.12 Intermittent Lockup APPENDIX 2. Local Area Network Capability A2.1 LAN Protocol (G3ZCZ Version) A2.2 Message Format A2.3 File Uploading/Downloading A2.4 Path Determination to a DX Station APPENDIX 3. NC/L Dictionary A3.1 :QBM: File Download A3.2 :QDB: File Upload A3.3 :QMH: Monitor Heard List A3.4 :QSM: Send Repeat of Message A3.5 :QSP: Send Message A3.6 :QRA: Who is About? A3.7 :QRT: Shut Up A3.8 :QRU: Upload Messages in Batch A3.9 :QNO: Negative Response A3.10 :QJG: Task Completed Response A3.11 :QRV: Ready Response A3.12 :QSL: Confirmation Response A3.13 :QTA: Messages A3.14 :QTC: List of Messages A3.15 :QYU: YAPP Binary File Transfer Upload A3.16 :QYD: YAPP Binary File Transfer Download LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 10 APPENDIX 4. USING OTHER TNCs A4.1 TNC2 (MFJ 1270) Version 1.1.2 A4.1.1 Default Commands A4.1.2 Program differences A4.2 TNC1 (HD-4040) A4.2.1 Default Commands A4.2.2 Program differences A4.3 Kaypro KPC-2 A4.3.1 Default Commands A4.3.2 Program differences A4.4 KAM A4.4.1 Default Commands A4.4.2 Program differences A4.5 PK-232 EPROM Versions JUN 1987 and later A4.6 MFJ1278 EPROM Version 3.3 A4.6.1 Default Commands A4.6.2 Program differences A4.7 Heath HK-21 APPENDIX 5. UPDATES/REVISION HISTORY APPENDIX 6. Registration Form APPENDIX 7. Problem Reporting Form APPENDIX 8. Other PC Software by Joe Kasser G3ZCZ APPENDIX 9. How Shareware Works ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Thanks to Milt, 4X1AA. If it wasn't for Milt, Version 1.00 would never have been written. Thanks to Jim, WB8QJL, who loaned me his MFJ1278 for several months but died in a plane accident before he got to use LAN-LINK on his MFJ1278. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 11 1.0 INTRODUCTION LAN-LINK is a Personal Digital Communications Terminal Program for a Packet Radio TNC. The program is designed to optimize the configuration of the TNC in each communications mode and to provide some smart terminal features. It takes advantage of the extra features of the PK-232 which is made by Advanced Electronics Applications Inc. It is designed to allow anyone to use and get the most out of their packet TNC as well as from the PK-232, the MFJ1278 and the KAM for Morse, ASCII, BAUDOT, AMTOR as well as Packet Radio communications without having to keep the manual handy. LAN-LINK is a sophisticated program. In its basic state it allows you to use the TNC in an optimal manner. It configures the TNC (it types the commands) for you to maximize the communications efficiency in the communications mode of your choice. That means, for example, when working Packet on HF you need to program the TNC parameters to different values than you would use on VHF to make maximum use of the mode. One significant difference is the length of the packet itself, for the longer it is, the greater the probability of QRM destroying it. This program will adjust the packet parameters for you. Since the computer is now involved, other features have been added to simplify operation, and several features have been automated. All these operations are performed using menus and function keys as documented below. It will take a while to learn how to use this program in a manner that suits you, read this document and have fun, after all, isn't that one of the purposes of Amateur Radio. This manual is organized by menu. It describes the operation of each menu option and function key in each Communications Mode. It is not organized in a how to do something manner. Any Terminal Node Controller (TNC) is a complex piece of equipment. It can operate in a Command Mode, in which you tell it to do something, or in a Converse Mode in which you are using it to talk to other stations. Many people confuse the two when first getting on Packet. If you monitor the channels you will recognize Command Mode TNC instructions on the air, and when you use the TNC you will receive the "error" reply when you type something thinking that you are in the Converse Mode but are really in the Command Mode. LAN-LINK is designed to make Packet operation simple using Menus and high level (Function and Hot key combinations) commands. Morse, ASCII, BAUDOT communications modes are HALF DUPLEX. One station is transmitting at any time. You thus have to use the Transmit/Converse and Receive/Disconnect function keys to turn the transmitter on and off respectively. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 12 AMTOR is also HALF DUPLEX but has some of the attributes of full duplex. In this Mode you control who is talking through software, only one station can send data at a time, but you can type characters in to the buffer and they will be transmitted automatically when the other station turns the QSO over to you. Once you have linked with someone, you do not use the Receive/Disconnect function UNTIL THE QSO IS OVER. Both stations are communicating automatically thanks to the TNC. If you want the other operator to respond type the +? key sequence (or use the 'End' Key). Packet Radio communications on the other hand is a full duplex mode of communications. Once you have connected with someone, you do not use the Receive/Disconnect function UNTIL THE QSO IS OVER. Both stations are communicating automatically thanks to the TNC. If you want the other operator to respond type the > key followed by the 'Enter' Key, better yet, use the 'End' Key. Note that Morse, AMTOR, ASCII and BAUDOT are character mode communications in that each character you type is sent as you type them. In Packet Communications, the TNC stores them up and sends out a burst or packet when you type the 'Enter' Key or you type enough characters to fill up a packet. Studies have shown that the human attention span when sitting at the keyboard is of the order of 2 seconds. If you are in a keyboard to keyboard packet radio connect, remember this and don't forget to use the 'Enter' Key frequently, especially before you stop to think about what to send next. Note that AMTOR and PACKET are full duplex modes of communications. When you connect with someone, there is no need to use the transmit and receive function keys. In fact you will have problems if you do. Do not disconnect or break the link until the QSO is over. 1.1 PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS Function key and Menu driven. Automatic logbook entries for Packet and Mailbox/Beacon Mode AMTOR Connects, semiautomatic logbook entries for other modes. Logbook file is dBASE compatible and can be processed by the LOGBOOK Package of PC-HAM by G3ZCZ for indexed listings, tracking of DXCC and other AWARDS, etc. Contest operation, sends standard message and automatically increments QSO count. Automatic optimized configuration of the TNC for each com- LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 13 munications mode. All mode Function key 'OVER' feature (End). There are 10 files with fixed names (LAN-LINK.001 through LAN-LINK.010) which may be viewed and transmitted by means of function keys. They may also be edited from the Edit Menu. Set up of TNC for AMSAT-OSCAR Telemetry reception. Time display and event scheduler. ASCII Text Editor. Customizable Colors. Access to the TNC Command Mode is provided in case the user wishes to override any defaults. 1.1.1 PACKET RADIO Automatic capture to disk of all packet radio connects. Automatic indication of the number of Packet connects. Local Area Network (LAN) message store and forward capability. Capable of automatic connect attempts to download a QTC from another station in the LAN. Capable of automatic connect attempts to a packet BBS to download your incoming messages, when your callsign appears on the BBS mail beacon annunciator. Capable of automatically requesting Bulletins on subjects that interest you from your local packet BBS. Digipeat monitoring and capture. Alert signal to let you know when a predetermined call shows up in a packet header on frequency. Conference Mode in multiconnect situations. Bridge Mode in multiconnect situations. Path determination to DX station via :QMH:. Indicator that a specific station designated as the 'target' call connected in Packet Mode, or linked to AMTOR Beacon/Mailbox while you were away. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 14 Automatic NET/ROM and KA Node path set up from LAN-LINK.DIR call/path directory file. Selective answering machine and MAILBOX using NC/L command dialogue. Screen indication of connect by desired station (target call). Automatic Beacon Mode CQ caller Automatic contest (DX-pedition) mode Will call CQ repetitively and either work the connect and keep going after disconnect or signal you when a reply is received. SAREX special features :QRA: trigger to determine who else is on channel Single keystroke Packet Cluster connect 1.1.2 AMTOR Automatic SELCAL determination. Automatic CQ caller. Will call CQ repetitively and signal you when a reply is received. Local Area Network (LAN) message store and forward capability. Selective answering machine and MAILBOX using NC/L command dialogue. Function key change from monitoring FEC CQ's to QSO's in progress (chirpcopy). Automatic Beacon Mode CQ caller Automatic contest (DX-pedition) mode Color changes between incoming and outgoing (echoed as sent) text. 1.1.3 MORSE/BAUDOT/ASCII Automatic CQ caller. Will call CQ repetitively and signal you when a reply is received. RTTY SELCAL LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 15 NAVY MARS RTTY file transmitting protocols for the PK-232. 2.0 Getting Started MAKE A BACK UP COPY OF THIS DISK, BEFORE YOU REMOVE THE WRITE PROTECT TAB. If you don't have a PK-232 then rename the LAN-LINK.SYS file to PK232.SYS and rename your TNC.SYS file as LAN-LINK.SYS. For example, if you are using a TNC2, perform the following operations in DOS. RENAME LAN-LINK.SYS PK232.SYS RENAME TNC2.SYS LAN-LINK.SYS For details of the rest of the customization possibilities in the 'LAN-LINK.SYS' file, read Section 23.2. YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE to change the TNC Type from within LAN-LINK. YOU MUST rename the SYS files BEFORE you begin the customization sequence. 2.1 Bringing LAN-LINK Up the First Time. 2.1.1 Turn on the TNC. 2.1.2 If the date and time in the PC are not set to UTC (GMT), set them using the DOS date and time commands. 2.1.3 Load the program by typing LAN-LINK in the way that you normally load a program. 2.1.4 WAIT until the program says that it has initialized the TNC and shows the band and power in the status window at the top of the screen. 2.1.5 If there is no battery in your TNC do what the TNC manual tells you to do to synchronize the TERMINAL baud rate to 1200 baud. In the case of the PK-232, LAN-LINK will send the PK-232 three * characters to set the PK-232 to 1200 baud. 2.1.6 After LAN-LINK has loaded, use the Parameters Menu option "2" to replace G8BTB with your callsign and Selcal information. If your TNC does not support AMTOR you still need a dummy entry in that line (which is taken care of automatically). You may also change the colors at this time. Use the "U" option to save the updated file. After reading the rest of this manual, you may want to change other defaults to set up LAN-LINK the way you like it. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 16 2.1.8 Use the "N" and "I" options in the TNC Menu to configure the TNC. Then select the desired mode of operation from the displayed menu by pressing the appropriate key. 2.1.9 Exit from LAN-LINK by using the Alt-X Key or the Esc Key followed by the X Key. 2.1.10 Reload LAN-LINK the same way you did before. This will load the edited LAN-LINK.SYS file with the new settings. You are now ready to use LAN-LINK. If this is your first time, try the Quick Menu (See Sections 2.2 and 5.1). NOTE: If you have batteries in the TNC, make sure that the TNC is set for a terminal baud rate of 1200, and try to run the program. If you see Greek characters or it doesn't work, remove the batteries and try again (Refer to Appendix 1.10). You can then replace the batteries and from then on the program will be correct. Make sure you leave the TNC on when you replace the batteries or your initialization will revert to the TNC default settings - the batteries are there to power the TNC RAM while your primary power is off. 2.2 Using the Quick Menu The Quick Menu is designed for new users and provides the most commonly used functions in a single Menu. You bring up the Quick Menu be touching the Escape key to access the Main Menu and then selecting the 'A' option. The Quick Menu is described in Section 5.1. 2.3 Connecting to other stations LAN-LINK treats incoming connects and outgoing connects differently. To connect to another station, Use the Alt-C hot key, Function key 5, or bring up the Quick Menu using the 'Esc A' character sequence as described in Section 5.1, or by bringing up the Call Menu via the 'Esc C' character sequence as described in Section 7. DO NOT TYPE 'C Call- sign' in the command mode. If you do, the connect will still take place (the TNC won't know if you or LAN-LINK issued the command) but LAN-LINK will treat it as an incom- ing connect and issue the "[ZCZ] LAN-LINK 1.58>" handshaking signal (if the LAN-LINK flag is in its default, or enabled state) as described in Section 18. If you connect to a BBS or a Node this way, you will get an error message back from the BBS or node, since it does not recognize LAN-LINK's handshake. When you use the menu, Alt-C or F5 approach you can also LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 17 make use of the 'path memory' feature in the LAN-LINK.DIR file. 2.4 Upgrading from YAPP A YAPP.CNF file is provided to facilitate conversion from YAPP to LAN-LINK. YAPP.CNF is a configuration file for YAPP Version 2 that will configure the PK-232 for YAPP and then back to LAN-LINK. If you are currently using YAPP, replace your YAPP.CNF file with this one and load YAPP. Then terminate the program in the normal manner by using the Alt-X Key. You should then be able to load and run LAN-LINK without any problems. Each time you subsequently want to run YAPP, YAPP will set up the PK-232, execute and then reconfigure the PK-232 back for LAN-LINK. If you are using a YAPP.DIR file, rename it to LAN-LINK.DIR. 2.5 Using Different TNCs There are differences between the command dialogue and the features offered by the PK-232, KAM and MFJ1278. LAN-LINK makes use of many of them. For example, as the KAM shows the HF and VHF packets as if they ware separate streams, LAN-LINK detects them and displays the different headers in different colors. As this feature is not present in the PK-232, LAN-LINK does not offer it. From time to time, as each manufacturer updates the firmware (EPROM) in the TNC, LAN-LINK may be updated and incorporate them. LAN-LINK is normally loaded by typing LAN-LINK followed by the 'Enter' key. In this instant, LAN-LINK gets its configuration information from the LAN-LINK.SYS file. LAN- LINK.SYS is the default SYSTEM or configuration file. If you have more than one TNC you may want to set up different configuration files for each TNC. You must set up your different configuration files with the filetype ".SYS", examples being TNC1.SYS, TNC2.SYS, KAM.SYS, PK232.SYS as well as the default LAN-LINK.SYS. Edit the sample files on the distribution disk to customize them to your requirements. To load LAN-LINK with the optional configuration file, type 'LAN-LINK' followed by the name of the file (without the filetype) on the command line then press the 'Enter' Key. For example, if you have a PK-232 and a TNC2 and occasionally use the TNC2, set up the LAN-LINK.SYS file for the PK-232. Then type 'LAN-LINK' to run the program normally. On the rare occasions when you want to use the LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 18 TNC2, you may type 'LAN-LINK TNC2' to run LAN-LINK with the TNC2.SYS configuration file. 2.6 Using Different HF and VHF Configuration Files You can also use two SYS files, one for HF and one for VHF/UHF. If you name them HF.SYS and VHF.SYS you can bring the relevant one up by typing 'LAN-LINK VHF' or 'LAN-LINK UHF' as desired. You can also use a different one for a contest, or for any reason you wish. 2.7 Using the AMTOR/PACKET Robot/Automatic Contest Station In order to use the Robot in the AMTOR Mode, you need to have a Brag Tape file. The default name for this file is LAN-LINK.TXT. If this file does not exist, you will not be able to activate the Robot. You activate the Robot by using the Alt-O hot key combination. The Robot will then call CQ and wait for a reply. If no reply is received, it will call again. It will continue to call at preset intervals until a reply is received (you may change the interval via the Parameters Menu). In AMTOR, the Brag Tape will be transmitted and one (and one only) transmission accepted from the linking station, unless the linking station uses a NC/L command on the same line as the +?. In that case, the Robot will respond to it. All incoming text will be captured to disk in the Capture-to-disk file (LAN-LINK.RUN). The Robot will then sign off and drop the link. If it has not managed to recognize a valid call from the linking station it will ask for a retransmission of the callsign. In the Packet Communications Mode, the CTEXT will ONLY be transmitted if you have set CMSG to ON (in the TNC Command Mode), the Brag Tape will not be transmitted. NC/L will be active. When the connecting station disconnects, the Robot will restart the CQ cycle. In AMTOR turn the answerback off if the Robot is on. In this way other stations will not be able to mess up the sequencer. When you touch the F8, F3, Alt-D, Alt-Q or 'End' keys, you turn the Robot off. The PK-232's flush command is used before each robot CQ message is transmitted to synchronize the text to the Robot software. The KAM however, does not have a way to flush its LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 19 internal transmit buffer. Under QRM conditions or if sta- tions do not sign on correctly, the sequence can get out of order due to the wrong text being transmitted. To use the Automatic Contest mode, enable the contest mode from the Parameter menu, then activate the Robot using the Alt-O function key. To turn the Automatic Contest Mode off, deselect (turn off) the contest mode from the Parameter Menu. 3.0 Things You Should Know 3.1 Memory Requirements LAN-LINK 1.58 requires a minimum of 450k of RAM. You will need more RAM if you wish to use the Editor. The Editor files will each take a maximum of 64K additional RAM. If your memory is marginal, you may get an error when you try to log a station or edit a file/message. 3.2 PC to TNC Communications All communications between the computer and the TNC normally use the 8 BIT NO PARITY and 1 stop bit RS-232 Serial Port configuration. You CAN THUS SEND FOREIGN LANGUAGE CHARACTERS FROM THE KEYBOARD OR FILES. If you want to limit the char- acter set to the 7 bit ASCII set, set the TNC parameters accordingly. The baud rate defaults to 1200, but you may set it to 2400, 4800 9600 or even 19200 if your CPU clock is fast enough and the TNC will respond correctly. 3.3 Open Loop IF YOU USE THIS PROGRAM, YOU STILL MUST READ THE TNC MANUAL. WARNING .... THIS PROGRAM OPERATES IN AN OPEN LOOP MODE. IT REMEMBERS WHAT INSTRUCTIONS OR COMMANDS IT GAVE THE TNC. IF FOR SOME REASON, THE TNC IS NOT SYNCHRONIZED TO THE PROGRAM YOU WILL NOT GET CORRECT DISPLAYS ON THE SCREEN. 3.4 Problems In case you have problems, always check the default settings using the 'Verify Changes' option of the Parameters Menu. Further information is contained in Appendix 1. Problems can be caused by incorrect settings of the TNC parameters. If all else fails, (hard) reset the TNC. Make sure XFLOW and FLOW are OFF. 3.5 The Contents of the Status Window The indicators in the status line depend on the state of the LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 20 LAN Link and are described in the sections that deal with the functions they area associated with. This section is a summary of the displays in the Status Window. Some typical status window displays are shown below. 2 Meters 2 Watts PACKET 1200 W [R] TRFC ->N4QQ 20 Meters 100 Watts MORSE TEST[4] 20 Meters 100 Watts PACKET 300 N TRFC CAPTURE TO DISK PACKET 300 N [C1][Z] TRFC ->N4QQ If the automatic Capture-to-disk is turned off, a yellow bug will be flashing on the left side of the line. If the Printer Flag is set, a yellow [P] will be flashing on the left side of the line. If the miscellaneous flag is set, an asterisk '*' followed by two numbers and a ']' will be displayed. The first number is the BBS Sequence State, the second is the Connect Sequence State. These numbers reflect the internal state of LAN-LINK and should be quoted when describing problems. If a message transfer is taking place, the callsign of the station involved will be displayed. When the Capture-to-Disk is turned on, a 'CAPTURE TO DISK' will be shown, if it is turned off, the operating band (Meters) and power (Watts) will be shown. If a ZapBBS is in operation, the Bulletin Request Count will then be shown in square brackets ('[]'). The communications mode will be shown next, it may be one of the following; PACKET AMTOR AMTOR-(MAIL) AMTOR-FEC BAUDOT ASCII MORSE NAVTEX SIGNAL ???? DEFAULT {boot up} A flashing yellow musical note following the Communications Mode indicates that the sound has been inhibited. The next number to be displayed is the RF communications baudrate. The letter 'W' or 'N' indicates that the Wide shift or the Narrow shift has been selected. A 'down arrow' will be shown if the shift is normal. If the shift is re- versed a flashing yellow 'up arrow' will be displayed. In the BAUDOT mode, 'USOS' will be displayed if 'Unshift-on-space' is selected. If the Contest Mode is selected, the word 'TEST' will then LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 21 be displayed followed by the Contest QSO number in '[]'. In certain Robot and AutoCQ states, namely while the comput- er is waiting for a reply, a flashing cumulative CQ count will be displayed next. If the RTTY SELCAL is active the word 'SELCAL' will be displayed next. If the Navy MARS BAUDOT RTTY protocol is enabled, a '[n]' will be displayed. In the packet and AMTOR Robot modes, if at least one station has connected or linked, a flashing yellow '[C]' will be displayed next. The number in the square brackets with the 'C' is the number of stations that have connected/linked. If the target call station was one of those station, a happy face will also be displayed in the square brackets. If at least one QTC snatch has taken place a flashing yellow '[Q]' will be displayed next. The number in the square brackets is the number of QTC Snatches that have taken place. In the packet communications mode, if a ZapBBS, a QTC Snatch or a PacketClusterZap is in progress a flashing yellow '[Z]' will be displayed next. However, if LAN-LINK is set to stay connected when the sequence ends, the flashing indicator will be a {Z} instead of a [Z]. In the packet or AMTOR communications mode, a '[R]' will be displayed next if LAN-LINK is configured for 'store and forward' (:QSP:). In the packet and AMTOR communications modes, if the beacon mode is enabled a '[B]' will be displayed next. if someone has connected and sent a :QRT: sequence, the '[B]' will be flashing. The '[B]' will be followed by a '[M]' if there are messages pending. The number in the square brackets with the '[M]' is the number of messages (*.OUT files) pending. In the packet communications mode, if the SAREX mode is enabled, a '[S]' will be shown next. The '[S]' will be flashing while capture to disk is in progress. If SAREX packets have been copied a happy face will be displayed in the square brackets together with the 'S'. In the packet communications mode, if the digipeat Detect mode is enabled a '[D]' will be displayed next. In the packet communications mode, the terminal sub-modes LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 22 (see Section 21) are then displayed as follows; SOLO This lets you only see messages addressed to you. CQ/B This lets you see beacons and CQ calls as well. TRFC This lets you see packets containing messages as well. EVRY This lets you see everything on channel, including the link control packets. MAIL This lets you monitor packets from a specific station. In the PK-232, you can do it without displaying the headers. The next item to be displayed is a callsign, under the following conditions; the call of the station connected with, will be prefixed by a '*>' when connected, and by a '->' when a connect request is in progress. if a disconnect is in progress, the callsign will be replaced by a '$$$$'. The callsign will be seen as flashing when a connect is in progress. In the MAIL mode, the callsign of the station that you are "reading the mail" on will be displayed, otherwise the call sign displayed will be that of the one you are connected to. If an Alert Call has been entered, it will be displayed next, similarly for a target call. The display will be slightly different of the calls have been heard/worked. The next items to be displayed are the packet multi user mode displays. If the conference bridge is up, a flashing yellow bridge will be shown. If only the conference mode is set, the word 'C will be flashing, if the basic multi user mode is set, the word 'M will be seen. The callsign will be prefixed by the I/O channel number/letter, and will be in the color allocated to the traffic on that channel. The number shown after the flashing letter is the number of streams that LAN-LINK thinks that you are connected on. In the non packet modes, the callsign displayed will be that of the station being worked (entered by the AMTOR robot, the automatic CQ call recognition, or by the operator using the Alt-C or Alt-E keys). In AMTOR, the SELCAL of the other station will also be displayed sometimes, usually if you entered the call. An '[L]' will be displayed in the non packet modes when a callsign is entered. The '[L]' will flash to remind you (to log it) until the QSO is logged. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 23 3.6 Logbooks LAN-LINK uses two dBASE 3 compatible logbook files. One is used for VHF packet logging (VHF.DBF), the other for all HF modes (HF.DBF). See Section 14 for more information. 4.0 Function Keys Function keys are used to perform operations common to all communications modes, or to allow fast performance of a function without having to go through several layers of menus. The action of each of the function keys is described in the following sections. The function key number corresponds to the paragraph number, namely 4.1 refers to Function Key 1 (F1), etc. 4.1 Capture to Disk Toggle (F1) This key toggles the "capture-to-disk" command. When the "capture-to-disk" is active, all incoming text (including 'Echo as sent' outgoing text) is stored on a disk (floppy or hard) in a file called 'YYMMDD.RUN' where YY is the last two digits of the year, MM the month and DD the day (EG. 900824.RUN). If this file does not exist the first time that LAN-LINK is loaded, it is created. From that time on, for the rest of that day, successive activations append new data to the contents of the file. Each time the command is activated a datestamp (or timetag) will be written to the file. When a Packet station connects "capture-to-disk" will be activated automatically unless you instruct LAN-LINK not to do so with the Capture-to-disk flag (Section 18.17). Packet connects will thus be recorded in their entirety automati- cally unless you turn off the "Capture-to-disk" during the course of the QSO. "Capture-to-disk" will be stopped at disconnect time. You may later edit the file at your convenience with your favorite word processor or the included Editor. However, if your word processor can only handle files smaller than 64k, make sure that the 'capture-to-disk' file remains smaller. You can do this by renaming the file to something like 'LAN- RUN.001'. LAN-LINK will automatically close the "capture-to-disk" file when you terminate the program and return to DOS. Capture-to-disk is active when you scroll back. You can use this feature to save data that has already scrolled by the window. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 24 4.2 Send Brag Tape and Talk (F2). This command lets you transmit the Brag Tape (Default LAN- LINK.TXT. In the non packet modes, it will leave the trans- mitter on after sending the file. In the packet mode it will send a ^Z after sending the file to notify the recipi- ent that the file is complete. 4.3 Transmit Callsign Sequence (F3) This command lets you transmit the following sequence <other call> DE <your call>. For example if you are 4X6AA and you are working G3ZCZ then this command would transmit the sequence 'G3ZCZ de 4X6AA'. You use this at the start and end of a transmission in any mode except Packet. 4.4 Send Brag Tape (F4) This command lets you transmit the Brag Tape (Default LAN- LINK.TXT. In the non packet modes, it will turn the trans- mitter off after sending the file. 4.5 Show Packet 'MH' list and Point and Shoot Connect (F5). This command lets you see what calls the TNC has heard recently on the Packet channels. You can see up to 18, with the data and time they were last logged by the TNC. Refer to the 'MH' command in the TNC manual for the particulars of the display. The MH list shows up in a special window and freezes until you depress any key. While the list is frozen, LAN-LINK is not monitoring received data, so don't freeze it too long. If the MH list is blank, or information comes in from the TNC between the time you entered the command and the time the list is sent back, subsequent text from the TNC will show up in the MH window until the next 'Cmd:' appears or 18 lines of text have been received. You can also use this command in a point and shoot method for attempting a connect with a station you have heard. Bring up the MH Window and move the cursor to the desired callsign. When the cursor is positioned on any character in the call, press the 'Enter' Key and that call will be recognized as the callsign. If the call is joined to the word "Cmd:" or the cursor is positioned on a space or blank, the connect attempt will be inhibited. This command does not work on the TNC1. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 25 4.6 Auto CQ Call (F6) This command will send a CQ sequence, wait a preset delay and then repeat the CQ sequence until it receives your call back from someone else. When it does so, it will alert you with a Connect Alarm signal, reset the delay timer and revert to the normal or listening mode. In AMTOR it will revert to the mode in which it is waiting for an ARQ call and is able to copy FEC signals on frequency. When the Automatic CQ sequence is in operation, an indication will be shown in the status window. The indicator will be steady while the transmitter is sending the CQ text, and will blink while the receiver is listening for a reply. The time delay between calls is set using the 'Q' command in the Parameters Menu (Set CQ delay time). It is also set as a defined default by you when you setup your LAN-LINK.SYS file. The automatic CQ command will only work in the TNC non packet modes if the 'Echo as Sent Mode' is set to 'ON' per the LAN-LINK.SYS file. In other words, you must be able to see the CQ text slowly echo in the incoming window for the command to work. The reason for this is that the "K K K" (or "+?" in AMTOR) sequence is used to arm the software to look for a reply. In AMTOR you will get the connect alarm only when the replying station transmits the '+?' character combination. The check for the detection of your callsign and the connect alarm sequence only occur after a line feed character has been received. Under most conditions in AMTOR, many in RTTY, and some in MORSE, LAN-LINK will recognize the callsign of the station answering your CQ and display it in the status window. In the event that it fails completely, the sequence '--?--' will show up in the status window. Since the recognition algorithm used just looks for the first word following the 'DE space' sequence and assumes that it has the callsign, be careful to check it when operating under QRM conditions. You can override the automatic call selection with the Enter Callsign command in the Call Menu. The automatic CQ sequence is canceled when an incoming call is detected (only if the Beacon or Robot/Mailbox Mode is not selected), if you push the disconnect command key, or if you change communications modes. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 26 4.7 Activate Type Ahead Buffer/AMTOR Relink (F7) This key is not available in the Packet Communications Mode. It also functions somewhat differently in the AMTOR and other communications modes as described in the following sections. 4.7.1 Activate Type Ahead Buffer The use of this key sets LAN-LINK to the "Type Ahead" Mode. This is necessary for the PK-232 only, the KAM and the MFJ1278 have the feature built in. Any charac- ters then typed at the keyboard will be placed into the TNC transmit buffer. The contents of the buffer will be transmitted over the air when the transmit command is invoked with Function Key 10 [F10]. This feature allows you to 'type-ahead' as you can enter text into the transmit buffer while viewing incoming words in the INPUT window in the screen. Any characters typed from the keyboard will be echoed in the OUTGOING window on the screen. 4.7.2 AMTOR Relink If you return to the Command Mode when linked to another station in AMTOR, use this key to get back to the Converse Mode. If the link times out, you can try to relink with this key if you have entered the SELCAL of the other station. 4.8 Disconnect, Disengage or Receive (F8) This function key returns the station to the receive communications (TNC command) mode. It may also be used to abort the automatic CQ sequence. If you use it to abort a CQ sequence while the transmission is in progress, you may also want to flush the PK-232 transmit buffer by using the Flush command in the TNC Menu or the Alt-F hot key combination. In a multiconnect situation the program will prompt you to tell it which I/O channel to disconnect. In AMTOR this command key toggles LAN-LINK between the Chirpcopy Mode (listening to a QSO in progress) and monitoring FEC transmissions (CQ calls). 4.9 Put TNC in CMD Mode (F9) This command puts the TNC into the Command Mode. At this time, the program is transparent and acts as a dumb terminal LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 27 (except for placing incoming and outgoing text in the relevant windows). You use this Mode for overriding any of the TNC default conditions. (SEE I TOLD YOU THAT YOU HAD TO READ THE TNC MANUAL). 4.10 Put TNC in CONVERSE /Transmit Mode /AMTOR FEC (F10) This command places the TNC into the transmit or Converse Mode. The transmitter is turned on and the contents of the transmit buffer are transmitted. In the non packet communi- cations modes, the outgoing characters will be echoed back from the TNC and displayed in the INCOMING window on the CRT as they are transmitted on the air. In the AMTOR modes this key puts the TNC in the FEC Mode and turns the transmitter on. 4.11 Alternate Function Keys These keys transmit the files with the fixed names LAN- LINK.001 through LAN-LINK.010 (the suffix number corresponds to the function key) which must be located in the same directory as the LAN-LINK.EXE program. The transmitter is left on when the file has been sent. 4.11.1 Send/Talk file LAN-LINK.001 4.11.2 Send/Talk file LAN-LINK.002 4.11.3 Send/Talk file LAN-LINK.003 4.11.4 Send/Talk file LAN-LINK.004 4.11.5 Send/Talk file LAN-LINK.005 4.11.6 Send/Talk file LAN-LINK.006 4.11.7 Send/Talk file LAN-LINK.007 4.11.8 Send/Talk file LAN-LINK.008 4.11.9 Send/Talk file LAN-LINK.009 4.11.10 Send/Talk file LAN-LINK.010 In the non packet communications modes, the transmitter is left on when the file has been sent. In AMTOR, the change- over character pair (+?) is not sent. 4.12 Shift Function Keys These function keys show the contents of the files with the fixed names LAN-LINK.001 through LAN-LINK.010 (the suffix number corresponds to the function key) which must be located in the same directory as the LAN-LINK.EXE program. 4.12.1 Show contents of file LAN-LINK.001 4.12.2 Show contents of file LAN-LINK.002 4.12.3 Show contents of file LAN-LINK.003 4.12.4 Show contents of file LAN-LINK.004 4.12.5 Show contents of file LAN-LINK.005 LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 28 4.12.6 Show contents of file LAN-LINK.006 4.12.7 Show contents of file LAN-LINK.007 4.12.8 Show contents of file LAN-LINK.008 4.12.9 Show contents of file LAN-LINK.009 4.12.10 Show contents of file LAN-LINK.010 4.13 Control Function Keys These function keys show the first lines of the files with the fixed names LAN-LINK.001 through LAN-LINK.010 (the suffix number corresponds to the function key) which must be located in the same directory as the LAN-LINK.EXE program. 5.0 Main menu When you press the Escape Key, the Main Menu appears on your screen and provides a number of choices which are described in the following sections. A Quick menu B BBS Menu C Call Menu D eDit Menu E Event Menu F Files Menu H Help Menu J Jump to DOS Shell K LAN-LINK Menu L Log Menu M Message Menu N TNC Menu O AMSAT-OSCAR Menu P Parameter Menu Q Q Codes [NC/L] S communicationS Mode Menu T Terminal Mode Menu X eXit LAN-LINK Type in the single letter to make your choice. NOTE: Different options will show up in each menu depending on the connect state (in packet) or the type of TNC that you are using. For example, if you are using a TNC that only supports packet, the non packet menus will not be seen. An other example is that the BBS Menu is only active when you are connected to another station. 5.1 The Quick Menu The Quick Menu is designed for new users and provides the most commonly used functions in a single Menu. The Quick Menu Provides the following options. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 29 A Auto CQ B Send Brag Tape C Call Someone L Log Menu M Change Communications Mode Q Call CQ S Send/Talk File Z QRZ 1..0 Send/Talk LAN-LINK files 001..010 Type in the single letter to make your choice. Each option is described below. 5.2 Auto CQ This option initiates the automatic CQ sequence in which LAN-lINK sends out a CQ call, listens for a reply, and if none is received, sends out another CQ call, and so on, ad infinitum. It is the same as using Function Key 6 (F6) and is described in Section 4.6. 5.3 Send Brag Tape This option transmits the Brag Tape is the same as using Function Key 2 (F2) and is described in Section 4.4 and 10.3. 5.4 Call Someone This option is used when you want to call or connect to another station. It is described in Section 7.2. 5.5 Log Menu This option invokes the logbook, described in Section 14. 5.6 Change Communications Mode This option invokes the Communications Mode Menu, described in Section 20. You use it to change TNC communications modes. 5.7 Call CQ This option described in Section 7.6 is used to initiate a single CQ call. 5.8 Send/Talk File This option is used to send a file. When the file has been sent, the transmitter will stay on. This option performs the same function as does Function Key 4 (F4). LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 30 5.9 QRZ This option is the same as using Alternate Q Function Key (Alt-Q) and is described in Section TBS. 5.10 Send/Talk LAN-LINK files 001..010 This option is used to transmit the contents one of the LAN-LINK buffer files. You select the number, LAN-LINK does the rest. The option is the same as that provided by the Alternate Function Keys and is described in Section 4.11. 6.0 The BBS Menu This menu gives you smart file transfer capabilities with a BBS. The menu is only active when you are connected to another packet station. The BBS Menu provides the following capability. D Download Text Files. Type in the single letter to make your choice. 6.1 Download Text Files This option lets you download a text file from the BBS into a separate text file on your disk. Enter the full BBS download command at the prompt line. To download a file from a W0RLI BBS such as FILENAME.TYP in the A subdirectory you'd enter 'DA FILENAME.TYP'. To download the same file from the PACKET subdirectory of a WA7MBL BBS you'd enter the command 'D \PACKET\FILENAME.TYP'. If you use the 'D' command to download a text file, it will end up in a separate file on your disk ONLY IF a file of the same name does not exist on your drive. If a file with the selected name already exists on your disk drive you will get an error message. 7.0 The Call Menu The call menu is used to enter calls, either to call/connect/link a station or to remember a call or path. Each time you are prompted for a call, LAN-LINK will remember the previous 15 calls and you may use the Up and Down arrows to move the cursor to a remembered call. If you wish to capture a call from the incoming text window, push Function Key 10 (F10) to enter the window and move the cursor to the desired callsign. When the cursor is positioned on any character in the text, push the 'Enter' Key and that word will be recognized as the callsign. Any characters joined to the call (such as a '.') will be picked up as part of LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 31 the call. If the cursor is positioned on a space or blank, the connect attempt will be inhibited. In AMTOR, whenever you are asked to enter a callsign, LAN-LINK will prompt you with its guess at the SELCAL. If you agree with it, just press the 'Enter' Key, if you disagree, enter your choice over the prompt version. The Call Menu provides the following choices. A Alert Call (packet) or ARQ Call Talk (AMTOR) C Connect/Call D Show Directory E Enter Call M reMember Path P Packet Cluster Q Call CQ R Retry T Target Call U aUto CQ X Set DX Flag On/Off Z Zap BBS Type in the single letter to make your choice. 7.1 Alert Call/ARQ Call 7.1.1 Alert Call The Alert call feature is used in the Packet Communications Mode when disconnected and the terminal set for 'TRFC' or 'CQ/BEACON'. LAN-LINK will scan the packet headers received from the TNC, and, when it sees a packet originated (or digipeated if the MRPT parameter in the TNC is set to 'ON'), by the station whose call you have entered as the 'Alert' call, it will sound an alarm at the console. The line containing the packet header will also be displayed in light green. This option toggles the Alert call feature on and off. If it is off, you are prompted for the call to be monitored, and, if it is on, it is turned off. The toggle is set when you enter a callsign, and cleared when you depress the 'Enter' Key instead of a callsign. The Alert call will be shown flashing in the status window when in the disconnected state. NOTE: If the terminal is set for 'CQ/BEACON' the Alert will only sound if the specified station transmits CQ or BEACON packets. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 32 7.1.2 ARQ Call In AMTOR, this option will attempt to send an ARQ call to the desired station, transmit the callsign sequence when linked and allow you to continue typing text (Note that the C option sends the '+?' after the callsign sequence). 7.2 Connect/Call This option works in almost the same manner in both the packet and non packet communications modes as described in the following sections. 7.2.1 Non packet Modes You use this option to call a station heard on the band. In AMTOR the link request will be sent in the ARQ Mode to the SELCAL of the desired station. 7.2.2 Packet Mode You use this option to attempt a connect with another packet station. In a multiconnect situation the LAN- LINK will automatically select a free I/O channel to try the connect. 7.2.2.1 Names, Handles and Paths If you so desire, you can create a directory file (default name is LAN-LINK.DIR) and keep a list of names and calls. The computer will look up a name and call the station by its callsign. For example if you put Joe G3ZCZ as a line in the file, when you tell the computer to connect to Joe, it will try to connect to G3ZCZ. If you enter 4X4HF 4X4HF V 4X1AA, 4Z4ZB, 4X4IL you only need to type '4X4HF' to set up the correct connect path. You can also use this feature to automate a NET/ROM and/or a KA Node path connection. 7.2.2.2 NET/ROM and TheLink In the manual NET/ROM path setting up mode, you would first connect to your local node, then when you are connected with it, connect to the next node, and so on LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 33 through any intermediate nodes within the whole path before you finally connect with your destination station. You may also have digipeaters in any of the paths. For example if you wish to connect to K1HTV who is in range of the SSCT node, and you are in Washington DC, you might first have to connect to your local NET/ROM node (ELK) via a digipeater, then each of the intermediate nodes, SNJ3, NNJ, WMA before you could try to connect with K1HTV. Consider the manual sequence to make the connection. K1HTV is the station the contact is being attempted with, and he is located within range of the SCCT NET/ROM node. The station attempting the connect is located in the Washington DC area one digipeat away from the ELK NET/ROM node. The connection to the local node is performed first. The operator has to type 'C ELK v WB4APR-5' to make that link. When the connect with the node is achieved, the operator must type 'C SNJ3' to connect to the next node. Each time the connection is made, the operator must type in the command to make the next one, until finally the last node is reached and a connect request can be made to the destination station (either direct or via a digipeater). Sometimes there may be an intermediate non-NET/ROM connection between two stations somewhere in the path. This procedure is tedious and time consuming, because it may take several seconds to complete each stage of the link. LAN-LINK automates this sequence by scanning the line in the LAN-LINK.DIR file associated with the callsign entered and transmitting each section of the line when it recognizes the 'Connected to' reply from each NET/ROM node in the path. When it finally gets to the destination it sounds a chime to alert you that the connect has been achieved. The LAN-LINK.DIR file entry for this path is as follows: K1HTV ELK v WB4APR-5!SNJ3!NNJ!WMA!SCCT!K1HTV where the '!' separates each stage of the link. The key word is K1HTV. LAN-LINK then scans the line to see if there is a '!' in it. If there is it knows that it is dealing with a NET/ROM path. It then tells the TNC to attempt a connect with the characters following LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 34 the key word up to the first '!'. In this case it tells the TNC to connect to ELK via WB4APR-5. When the TNC sends back the connected message, LAN-LINK tells the TNC to try to connect to the next node in the path, namely in this example, SNJ3. The sequence continues each time a connection is made until the link is complete. To set up a directory entry just use the format shown above. Place a '!' sign after the uplink path and different node segments. Do not place one after the downlink path. Depending on the configuration, LAN-LINK will issue a 'disconnect' command to the TNC in the event the NET/ROM or KA-Node connect attempt fails. This feature is designed for known paths not for general path determination. 7.2.2.3 KA-Nodes You can connect or cross connect via KA-Nodes using the directory file. You must still use the ! separators as well as two new symbols % and &. Use % for 'C' and & for 'X' in KA-Node links.. For example, given that a path to W9TNN-2 is first to a local KA node [JRW] then to a second node on the same VHF frequency [W3EAX-7] and lastly via a cross connect on 40 Meters to W9TNN-2, the line in the LAN-LINK.DIR file would be as follows. w9tnn-2 jrw!%w3eax-7!&w9tnn-2 You can mix NET/ROM and KA-Node paths as in: n7dva!g3zcz-9!&WA6IEL-4!n7dva v kl7vz-3 The different symbols are used for the KA node to tell LAN-LINK which replies to look for as well as what to prefix the call with. Depending on the Node Drop Link Flag configuration, LAN-LINK will issue a 'disconnect' command to the TNC in the event the NET/ROM or KA-Node connect attempt fails. This feature is designed for known paths not for general path determination. 7.2.2.4 Loop Backs In the Packet Communications Mode, if you want to loop back through someone else you would have to type LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 35 C <yourcall> V <hiscall>. For example if I (G3ZCZ) wanted to loop back through 4X6AA, I would have to type the command C G3ZCZ V 4X6AA to the TNC. In LAN-LINK you just have to enter the '/' character followed by the call of the station you want to loop back through. For example if I (G3ZCZ) wanted to loop back through 4X6AA, I just need to enter /4X6AA as the call to connect to at the correct prompt, and LAN-LINK will tell the TNC to try to connect to G3ZCZ via 4X6AA, namely issue the command 'C G3ZCZ V 4X6AA' to the TNC. 7.3 Enter Call This option lets you enter the call of any station calling you into the program. If you type the Enter Key in response to the prompt, you can later use Function Key (F3) to transmit the sequence "DE <yourcall>". You may also use the Retry feature to call that station. In AMTOR, you use the feature to enter the callsign and SELCAL of the station you are listening to and may want to call later. 7.4 ReMember Path You may use this option to put an entry in the LAN-LINK.DIR file. 7.5 Zap Packet Cluster This option firsts prompts you with the callsign of the PacketCluster. If you enter a callsign, the entered callsign will become the new PacketCluster call. LAN-LINK then issues a connect request to the PacketCluster. When the connection is achieved, and the PacketCluster sends you a '>' character at the end of a line of text, LAN-LINK will issue a 'SHOW/WWV' command followed by a 'SHOW/DX' command to the PacketCluster and return to manual operation. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 36 Note: PacketCluster is a specialized BBS/conference by Pavilion Software for DX chasers. 7.6 Call CQ You use this command key to call CQ. In the Packet Communications Mode, the TNC will transmit a line of text along with the CQ packet. The line of text is set up in the LAN-LINK.SYS file described in Section 22. In the AMTOR Communications Mode, your SELCAL will be transmitted along with the CQ call in the FEC Mode. 7.7 Retry This option (also activated by the Alt-R function key) allows you to retry a connect that for some reason did not go through the first time. It saves wear and tear on your fingers particularly if the desired connect path is via a number of digipeat relays or through a number of NET/ROM NODES. In the non packet modes, it allows you to retransmit a call to another station without having to reenter the call. If you have previously used the Enter feature to put a callsign in the program when you hear that station, you can then use the Retry command to call him later when the QSO in progress terminates. 7.8 Show Call Directory This option displays the contents of the call directory file (LAN-LINK.DIR). 7.9 Target Call The Target call feature is used in the Packet Communications Mode when disconnected. LAN-LINK will monitor the stations connecting to you. When it sees a connect by the station which you have entered as the 'Target' call, it will set the flashing Connect Count display to show a 'happy face'. This option toggles the Target call feature on and off. If it is off, you are prompted for the call to be monitored, if it is on, it is turned off. The toggle is set when you enter a callsign, and cleared when you press the 'Enter' Key instead of a callsign. The Target call will be shown flashing in the status window when in the disconnected state. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 37 7.10 Auto CQ This option is the same as Function Key 6 (F6). 7.11 Toggle DX Flag LAN-LINK allows you to call either 'CQ' or 'CQ DX'. If this flag is set, all CQ calls will be to "CQ DX". If it is cleared, all CQ calls will be plain CQ's. 7.12 Zap BBS The BBS Mail Snatch can be initiated in two ways. It can be initiated when your incoming screen displays a "Mail" beacon (received from your local BBS) with your call in the first line following the header, or by LAN-LINK's Zap BBS function. The automatic BBS Zap will not take place if LAN- LINK is in the multi-user mode. In the event of a BBS Mail-Snatch, if the *.BBS file exists for that BBS, the file will be processed and the contents sent to the BBS. Thus if you don't get a chance to send the mail before LAN-LINK downloads the mail from the BBS, it will send it for you. When the BBS has accepted the commands the name of the file is changed from '*.BBS' to '*.n', where 'n' is a number increasing sequentially each time the function is performed. For example, the file name KE8X.BBS will be changed to KE8X.001 the first time it happens. In this way, you will have a copy of the outgoing file on your disk until you choose to delete it. In the real world however, message formats are nonstandard, and can contain any set of characters. The algorithm developed here transmits the next line in the *.BBS file when LAN-LINK sees a 'trigger' character-string unless one of the 'inhibitor' character-strings is also present on the line of the message text received by LAN-LINK. These 'trigger' character-strings are '>' (as the last character of the line of text ), 'Enter', 'Subject', 'Sj:' and 'Msg:'. The 'inhibitor' character-strings are 'R:', '<' and 'Message'(R: as in routing headers and < and Message as in Message-Id: <message number> in message headers). This should cover most simulated manual BBS message reading (WA7MBL and W0RLI/VE3GYQ) and avoid false triggering due to '>'s showing up in message and routing headers. NOTE that when LAN-LINK finishes processing the *.BBS file, it will send a 'B' command to the BBS to terminate the LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 38 session. This feature is designed to minimize the time you spend connected to the BBS by allowing you to scan the message list when automatically receiving your mail, prepare your replies and download requests off-line and then later read the incoming messages or files without tying up the BBS. It thus positively disconnects you from the BBS. In the Packet Communications Mode, the Alt-Z key initiates a BBS Mail Snatch. You use this key if you connect to a BBS before you hear its beacon, or if you have disabled the BBS Mail Snatch feature. If you are connected to a BBS, the key must be used BEFORE the first '>' is received. Note: it is that first '>' that triggers the sequence. If you have already received that first '>', send the BBS any command, and the sequence should begin when the BBS signals that it has completed processing that command. If you are not connected, LAN-LINK will first try to connect to the BBS, then perform the sequence. When you use this command you will be asked if you want to upload or download. If you want to download, just push the 'Enter' Key. A Download (Mail from the BBS to you) will automatically be followed by an Upload if the *.BBS file exists. The download sequence performed by the BBS Mail Snatch is as follows: RM To read your messages, (Configurable) L To let you know what is new on the BBS, LM To list ALL your messages on the BBS, B To log you off the BBS. LAN-LINK will wait for the '>' as the last character of the line of text being received from the BBS, before issuing the next command in the sequence. Your messages will be placed in a message file <yourcall>.OUT as if someone else had left a message for you. The 'RM' may be customized in the LAN-LINK.SYS file to 'RN' or 'VM' depending on the software in your local BBS and your preference. During the time that the BBS is responding to the 'L' command with a list of new messages, LAN-LINK is scanning the lines containing the messages to see if it finds one containing a Scan Word. If it does it will queue a request to download that message. If you wish to add a 'KM' to the sequence, place it in the BBS.BBS file. If you use 'KM' as you may delete mail BEFORE reading it. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 39 If you use the 'D' command to download a text file, the file will end up in a separate file on your disk ONLY IF a file of the same name does not exist on your drive. Do delete 'read' mail from your local BBS. Don't clutter the BBS's disk with your read mail. The 'LM' command is built into LAN-LINK to remind you of what you have out there. The BBS 'S' command (including its variations such as 'SP') is the only multiple line command allowed. You can thus put all the single line commands such as D, H, ?, L, and R in the BBS.BBS file. A 'multiple command' is defined in this instance as a command which allows you to enter multiple lines before the BBS will send back a '>' character (i.e. one that the BBS tells you to type in text and terminate it with the Control Z character). Each message must be in the format expected by the BBS and must end with the " :EOF: " character string, but there is no need for any special end of BBS file character. A typical message could be as shown below. SP G3ZCZ @ N4QQ LAN-LINK I think it is great. However, why don't you change the following...... (add your comments here). :EOF: {last line may also be '/EX'} 8.0 Edit Menu This menu provides the following choices. B Brag Tape D Call Directory File F Any other File K Answer Ctdsk File M Answer Incoming Mail N Note O Pick *.OUT (Message) File to Edit P Pick Ctdsk File to Edit R Capture to Disk File S LAN-LINK.SYS T Two Files 1,2 - 0 LAN-LINK.001 - 010 Type in the single letter to make your choice. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 40 LAN-LINK contains an ASCII text editor suitable for files less than 64k in size. It is built based on Borland's Turbo Pascal Editor Toolbox and the commands are compatible with Sidekick and Wordstar. A summary of the editor commands is shown below. F10 Switch Windows (if more than one window open) Backspace Delete left char Del Delete Char Enter New line Ins Toggle insert mode PgUp Move cursor up one page PgDn Move cursor down one page ^A Move cursor left one word ^C Move cursor down one page ^D Move cursor right one character ^E Move cursor up one line ^F Move cursor right one word ^G Delete one character ^H Delete left one character ^I Tab ^L Find/replace next occurrence ^P Insert a control character into the text ^M New line ^N Insert line ^R Move cursor up one page ^S Move cursor left one character ^T Delete one word after cursor ^V Toggle insert mode ^W Scroll up ^X Move cursor down one line ^Y Delete line at cursor ^Z Scroll down ^K^B Mark beginning of block ^K^C Copy block to position of cursor ^K^D Save file and exit edit ^K^H Hide block marker ^K^K Mark end of block ^K^Q Abandon file and exit edit ^K^R Read file into screen ^K^T Mark single word as block ^K^V Move block to position of cursor ^K^W Write block to disk file ^K^Y Delete block ^K 1..9 Set marker 1 .. 9 ^Q^A Find text and replace ^Q^B Move to beginning of block ^Q^C Move to end of file LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 41 ^Q^D Move to right of line ^Q^E Move to top of window ^Q^F Find text ^Q^I Toggle autoindent mode ^Q^K Move to end of block ^Q^R Move to top of file ^Q^S Move to left of line ^Q^X Move to bottom of window ^Q^Y Delete to end of line ^Q 1..9 Jump to marker 1..9 The following options can be set in the Find/Find and Re- place (^Qf and ^Qa) operations. # locates #th occurrence G global replace N replace without Y/N question U ignore upper case/lower case W match whole words only Notes 1 The ^ key in front of a character identifies that character as a 'control' character. To activate it, hold down the Control key AND the character key. 2 Some of the commands require two keystrokes. WHILE USING THE EDITOR, LAN-LINK can't receive characters from the TNC. All other features ARE INHIBITED OR LOCKED OUT. THUS IF SOMEONE CONNECTS TO YOU, THE TNC WILL KNOW BUT LAN-LINK WILL NOT. BE WARNED !!! The Edit menu allows you to call up the various files for editing as follows. 8.1 Edit Brag Tape This option allows you to create and edit the Brag Tape File (LAN-LINK.TXT). 8.2 Edit Call Directory file This option allows you to create and edit the Call Directory File (LAN-LINK.DIR). 8.3 Edit any other file This option allows you to create and edit any other file. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 42 8.4 Answer Ctdsk File (Split Screen) This option allows you to edit the capture-to-disk file and reply to incoming bulletins/messages in a split screen mode. The contents of the incoming bulletins and messages will be displayed in the top window, and the reply file in the lower window. The reply file is assumed to be named according to the Zap convention (*.BBS file). You will have to set up the replies/outgoing messages in the form shown below. SP Call @ BBS Subject of the message content lines End the message with either ':EOF:' , '/ex' or '/EX' as the first word on a separate line (without the '). For example, SP G3ZCZ@N4QQ Test This is a test 73 /ex Use Function key 10 (F10) to switch windows. At this time you cannot transfer text between windows. 8.5 Answer Incoming Messages (Split Screen) This option allows you to answer incoming messages in a split screen mode. The contents of the incoming messages will be displayed in the top window, and the reply file in the lower window. The reply file is assumed to be named according to the Zap convention (*.BBS file). Reply messages are set up as described in Section 8.4. Use Function key 10 (F10) to switch windows. At this time you cannot transfer text between windows. 8.6 Leave Note for Someone In all modes you can leave a brief note (message) for another station. When you invoke this option, you will be prompted for the call of the station that you want to leave a note for. The date/time header is written to the message file, then as you enter the text it is stored on the disk in LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 43 the usual format. After you have left the note and received the 'QSL' message from LAN-LINK, if you are in the Packet Communications Mode, press Function Key 8 (F8) or Alt-D to load the callsign of the recipient into the beacon. When you leave a note, leave it for the root call of the connectee, for example to leave a note for G3ZCZ/W3 leave it for G3ZCZ, similarly to leave a note for WB8WKA-1 leave it for WB8WKA. LAN-LINK is smart enough to extract the root call from any callsign it links/connects with. 8.7 Edit Capture-to-Disk file This option allows you to edit the Capture-to-Disk file as long as it is smaller than 64k. 8.8 Edit Two Files (Split Screen) This option allows you to create and edit any two files. Use Function Key 10 (F10) to switch windows. At this time you cannot transfer text between windows. 8.9 Edit Configuration file This option allows you to edit the Configuration File (LAN- LINK.SYS). 8.10 Edit LAN-LINK.001 through LAN-LINK.010 files This option allows you to create and edit the 10 files (LAN- LINK.001 to LAN-LINK.010). Use the suffix number to access the respective LAN-LINK.* file, use the number 0 to access the LAN-LINK.010 file . 8.11 Pick Capture-to-disk to Edit This option presents you with a directory window containing a list of capture-to-disk files (YYMMDD.RUN). Move the cursor down to the desired file and touch the 'Enter' key. If you don't want to edit any of them, then move the cursor down to a blank line. If you have more files than one screen full, use the Pgdn (Page Down) key to show the next screen full. 8.12 Pick Message file to Edit This option presents you with a directory window containing a list of message files (*.OUT. Move the cursor down to the desired message file and touch the 'Enter' key. If you don't LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 44 want to edit any of them, then move the cursor down to a blank line. If you have more files than one screen full, use the Pgdn (Page Down) key to show the next screen full. 9.0 Event/Clock Menu LAN-LINK contains some time dependent features which allow you to schedule events. These features are controlled from this menu and are listed below. A Set Alarm C Connect/Call D Display Event P Periodic Event R Turn Robot ON/OFF S Turn ConteSt ON/OFF T Turn Time Display ON/OFF X Cancel Event Z Zap BBS Type in the single letter to make your choice. To set a scheduled event, first select the event, then enter the time. You may set the event to occur once a day, or once an hour. If you wish the event to occur once an hour, enter an hour value greater than 23 when asked to enter the hour. Each time the event occurs, the feature will be cleared. 9.1 Set Alarm This option allows you to set an alarm clock. 9.2 Connect This option allows you to set LAN-LINK to issue a call or connect request at some later time. 9.3 Display Event This option allows you to display the scheduled event. 9.4 Periodic Event This option allows you to set a periodic connect request or call event. You can set the start time, the end time and the time interval between the connect/call attempts. The first connect that goes through will clear the event scheduler. 9.5 Turn Robot ON/OFF This option allows you to turn the AMTOR/Packet Robot on or LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 45 off at a fixed time. 9.6 Turn Contest ON/OFF This option allows you to turn the AMTOR/Packet Automatic Contester on or off at a fixed time. You will be prompted for the time, a starting QSO number (in case you a restart- ing the contest) and the Contest Text (in case you wish to change it). 9.7 Turn Time Display ON/OFF This option allows you to turn the clock display on or off. 9.8 Cancel Event This option allows you to cancel a scheduled event. 9.9 Zap BBS This option allows you to schedule a BBS Zap at a predetermined time (like in the middle of the night). You may for example set it to attempt to connect to a BBS at a fixed time or hourly at any desired minute after the hour. Should the connect be made, the event scheduler will be cleared and no further connect attempts will be made. 10.0 Files Menu The Files Menu provides the following choices. B Send Brag Tape D File Directory E Erase File R Rename File S Send File T Send/Talk File U Send Uppercase File V View file Type in the single letter to make your choice. During the file transfer, the outgoing text will appear in the OUTwindow. If the text is long enough and fills the TNC buffer, you will see it stop, and then continue when the TNC is ready to accept more text, the message sequence will resume. NOTE hard- ware flow control NOT ^S/^Q software is used. When you transmit a file (B or S) you are returned to the receive mode after the file is sent except in the Packet Communications Mode. In the Packet Communications Mode, when the file has been loaded into the TNC the computer will add the ^Z character to the LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 46 outgoing text to signal to the recipient that the file transmis- sion is over. The computer will signal you (using the bell character) when the file has been loaded into the TNC, Note that is not the same as the time that the TNC has transmitted the file, because the TNC incorporates a character buffer. 10.1 Send Brag Tape This command allows you to transmit a standard text file historically known as a "Brag Tape". The default name of the brag tape file is LAN-LINK.TXT, and it should be created with a word processor in the non-document mode. 10.2 File Directory This command shows you the directory of the disk drive. 10.3 Erase File This command allows you to erase or delete a file. 10.4 Rename File This command allows you to rename a file. You could for example rename a document file to a "<callsign>.OUT" file so that someone will receive it automatically next time they connect. 10.5 Send File This option lets you transmit an ASCII file. In the non packet modes, it will turn the transmitter off after sending the file. In the packet mode it will send a ^Z character when the file is complete. 10.6 Send/Talk File This option lets you transmit an ASCII file. In the non packet modes, it will leave the transmitter on after sending the file. 10.7 Send Uppercase File This option lets you transmit an ASCII file and converts each line of text in the file to UPPERCASE before transmitting it. The file itself is not changed. In the non packet modes, it will turn the transmitter off after sending the file. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 47 10.8 View file This option lets you view the contents of a file. Use it if you must on long files. On files with less than 64k charac- ters, use the Edit Menu. 10.9 View Ctdsk File This option lets you view the contents of the capture-to- disk file (YYMMDD.RUN). Use it if you must on long files. On files with less than 64k characters, use the Edit Menu. 10.10 This option lets you view the contents the Incoming message file (yourcall.OUT). Use it if you must on long files. On files with less than 64k characters, use the Edit Menu. 11.0 Help Menu This option will activate the HELP display. Help displays a brief summary of the function and hot keys. This window will remain on display until a character is typed at the keyboard. 12.0 Jump to DOS Shell This option allows you to enter a DOS shell. If you do not restore the system to the directory which contains LAN-LINK before you EXIT from the shell, LAN-LINK will do so for you. You may use the DOS shell while in QSO when you have loaded the computer/TNC output buffers and output will continue to flow. To exit from the DOS shell back to LAN-LINK, enter the command 'EXIT'. LAN-LINK will automatically return you to the correct subdirectory. 13.0 LAN-LINK Menu The LAN-LINK menu provides different options depending on whether you are connected to another station or not. The following options are available when connected. B :QBU: External Protocols M :QBM: File P :QSP: Message Q :QDB: File S :QSM: File T :QTA: Messages U :QRU: Messages The following option is available when not connected. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 48 W Who is "ON-LINE" Type in the single letter to make your choice. Each of the features (except the :QBU:) may also be performed manually by typing the full sequence of Network Control Language (see Appendix 3) character strings. 13.1 The :QBU: Command This is a Sequence for external operations and only shows up in the LAN-LINK Menu when connected. It requires that the batch file 'QBU-TX.BAT' be present in the initiating sta- tion, and that the batch file 'QBU-RX.BAT' be present in the receiving station. When the QBU sequence is executed the following occurs:- The transmitting station sends a :QBU: The receiving station sends a :QRV: and an amount of memory left on disk, enters the transparent mode, jumps to dos and executes the batch file 'QBU-RX.BAT'. Upon receipt of the :QRV:, the transmitting station then puts the TNC in the transparent mode and jumps to Dos and executes the batch file 'QBU-TX.BAT'. The batch file should exit and return to LAN-LINK. LAN-LINK then exits the trans- parent mode. When the receiving station batch file finishes and returns to LAN-LINK. LAN-LINK then exits the transparent mode and transmits a :QSL: if the DOS Error level was 0 and a :QNO: error if it wasn't. At this time both stations are back in the converse mode. You may use this technique for transmitting pure binary files using external (to LAN-LINK) protocols). You may change the default names of the batch files in the LAN- LINK.SYS configuration file. 13.2 :QBM: File You use this option to download a file from another LAN-LINK station. It is the same as manually typing ':QBM: FILENAME'. 13.3 :QSM: Message You use this option to request a repeat of a message. It is the same as manually typing ':QSM:'. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 49 13.4 :QSP: Message You use this option to store a message on another LAN-LINK station. It is the same as manually typing ':QSP: <callsign>'. LAN-LINK contains store and forward routines for messages in a Local Area Network (LAN) as described in Appendix 2. When connected to another LAN-LINK station, you may use the NC/L :QSP: command to leave a message at that station. This QSP command automates that feature for you. It lets you just enter the callsign of the station you wish to leave a message for. It will then send the text sequence :QSP: <callsign>. The other LAN-LINK HOST station will either reply :QNO: followed by a number or :QRV: <callsign>. The 'QNO' message means that the other computer cannot accept the message, the :QRV: message means that it is waiting for you to send it. If you get the :QRV: reply, go ahead and type the message, or send the text file containing the message. If you type the message, use a control Z (^Z) character and carriage return to terminate the message. (In AMTOR, LAN-LINK will translate the ^Z to :EOF: +? to terminate the message). You will then receive either a :QSL: from the other station meaning that the message is accepted, or a :QNO: followed by a message that something went wrong and the message was not stored. 13.5 :QDB: File You use this option to upload a file to another LAN-LINK station. It is the same as manually typing ':QDB: FILENAME'. This option saves you typing the file name twice. 13.6 :QRU: Messages The NC/L QRU command allows you to upload a number of messages to the other station. You use it when you have messages pending on your system and want to pass them to a third computer for storage in the LAN, while you take your computer off-line. You use this option to begin the upload sequence to transfer messages for a number of stations to another LAN- LINK station. It is the same as manually typing :QRU:. You can only use this option with a station which you have LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 50 previously designated as a store and forward mail box, for specific stations, namely one for which you have set up a <callsign>.MBX file. This command may be triggered by you using this choice or by the connecting station sending you a :QRU: command. When the sequence is over, the computer sending the messages will transmit the NC/L command word :QJG: to signal that the sequence is complete. Should you receive it before you get any messages, then there weren't any pending. If you want to download messages from another LAN-LINK system, connect to it and type the sequence :QRU: followed by the 'Enter' character. That system will then respond to you as if the operator there had initiated a QRU command. Appendix 2 contains more information on the LAN capabilities of LAN-LINK. 13.7 Who is "ON-LINE" You use this option (when unconnected and monitoring the traffic on a channel) to see who is 'ON-LINE' on the LAN. It is the same as going manually into the Converse Mode and transmitting an unconnected packet containing the character string :QRA:. 13.8 :QTA: Messages If you have a bad path (See Section 24.12) and your messages are not automatically deleted by the other station after they have been sent to you, you use this option to delete your message. It is the same as manually typing ':QTA:'. 14.0 Log Menu LAN-LINK performs automatic logbook entries for Packet and AMTOR Beacon mode Connects, and semiautomatic logbook entries for other modes. The Log files are in dBASE 3 format and can be processed by the DBASE Logbook Package in PC-HAM for indexed listings, tracking of DXCC and other AWARDS, etc. This is ideal for special event stations and DX-peditions, for the whole QSL process and further statistical analyses of their operation. The structure of the logbook files are as shown below. Field Field Name Type Length Dec 1 DATE Character 8 2 TIME Character 4 3 BAND Character 3 4 CALL Character 10 5 RX Character 3 LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 51 6 TX Character 3 7 MODE Character 4 8 POWER Character 4 9 QSLSENT Character 1 10 QSLRX Character 1 11 COMMENTS Character 20 ----------------------------------------------- ** Total ** 62 The size of the COMMENTS field is a compromise. Each field is a fixed size so that each log entry takes up 52 characters worth of space on the disk even if all the character space is unused. You may change the size of the field if you wish, but to do that you will have to use dBASE. Note also, that if you do make the comments field longer, the display will be screwed up. For the logging feature to work, the logbook file VHF.DBF or HF.DBF) must be present on the disk. When an AMTOR beacon mode or packet connect occurs, the connect is automatically logged. In the Packet Mode, the connect path is placed in the comments section of the logbook entry. In the non packet modes, the log data entry is set up for you with default 599 values for the reports exchanged. When you bring up the Log Menu you will be shown the last screen or page of log entries. The last entry will be highlighted. At this time a number of function keys can be used, or you may depress the 'Escape' key to bring up the Main Log Menu. The following are the Function Keys are active in the Log Menu. Alt-A Append Entry Alt-E Edit Log Entry Alt-F Find an Entry Alt-S Scan Log by Call Alt-U Toggle Delete Mark Alt-Z Pack Log Ins Toggle Insert Mode End Show Last Page Home Show First Page PgUp Move Up One Page PgDn Move Down One Page Up Arrow Move Up One Entry Down Arrow Move Down One Entry The operation of each function key is described below. 14.0.1 Alt-A Append Entry This function key allows you to manually append an entry to LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 52 the log. You can also use this command to enter the odd SSB contact into the logbook file. If you do, use the characters 'SSB' or 'FM' for those voice modes to remain compatible with the rest of the DBASE logbook package. When appending or editing an entry, LAN-LINK will automatically enter the date, time, callsign of the other station, band, mode and QSL information in upper case. The comments field in the LAN-LINK logbook file is restricted to a maximum of 20 characters. If you try and enter more than 20, the surplus will be ignored. 14.0.2 Alt-E Edit Log Entry This function key allows you to edit the highlighted entry. Move the cursor with the arrow keys, and end the edit process by depressing the 'Escape' key. You may use the 'QSL' entry to tag the fact that you have written out or received a QSL card. 14.0.3 Alt-F Find an Entry This function key allows you to find an entry by the (record) number assigned to it by LAN-LINK. This is the number displayed in the first column. 14.0.4 Alt-S Scan Log by Call This function key allows you to scan the logbook by callsign prefix. 14.0.5 Alt-U Toggle Delete Mark This function key allows you to mark an entry for deletion, or un-mark it in case you change your mind. Entries marked for deletion will be flagged by an '*' character next to the record number. 14.0.6 Alt-Z Pack Log This function key allows you to pack the logbook files. All entries marked for deletion will really be deleted at this time. 14.0.7 Ins Toggle Insert Mode This function key allows you to turn the insert mode ON and OFF for the edit/append functions. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 53 14.0.8 End Show Last Page This function key moves you to the last page of the logbook. 14.0.9 Home Show First Page This function key moves you to the first page of the logbook. 14.0.10 PgUp Move Up One Page This function key moves the display up one page of the logbook. 14.0.11 PgDn Move Down One Page This function key moves the display down one page of the logbook. 14.0.12 Up Arrow Move Up One Entry This function key moves the highlight up one entry in the logbook. 14.0.13 Down Arrow Move Down One Entry This function key moves the highlight down one entry in the logbook. When you bring up the Main Log Menu, it provides the following choices. A Append Entry B Scan Log by Band C Change Log D find Date E Edit Log Entry F Find an Entry I Import-Convert Log H Help Function Keys M Scan Log by Mode P Print Log S Scan Log by Call U Update from Old data X eXit From Log Menu Z fuZzy scan Type in the single letter to make your choice. 14.1 Append an Entry This option lets you append an entry. It is the same as the LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 54 Alt-A logbook mode function key. 14.2 Scan Log by Band This option lets you scan the logbook file and display QSOs made on a particular band. 14.3 Change Logbook File This option lets you temporarily change the logbook file. If you want to change it permanently, change it in the LAN- LINK.SYS file. When you enter the new name, LAN-LINK will assume that it is a filetype DBF. For example, if you have different logbooks for different operations on-line, such as 4X.DBF or W8.DBF, you only need answer 4X in response to the question to change to the 4X.DBF logbook. In accordance with the dBASE convention, you cannot use any filetype other than DBF. 14.4 Find Date This option lets you locate and move the highlight to entries for a particular date. If no entries are found for the desired date, the first entry after that date will be highlighted. Note you can also scan for parts of a date such as "90/01" for the first entry in January 1990. 14. 5 Edit Log Entry You invoke this option to edit the highlighted entry. This function is the same as that invoked with the Alt-E function key. 14.6 Find an Entry This option lets you find an entry by its number. It is the same as the Alt-F logbook mode function key. 14.7 Import-Convert Log This option lets you import logs from earlier releases of LAN-LINK (up to and including Version 1.56). It can also be used to import a log generated by the PC-HAM CONTEST program. 14.8 Help Function Keys This option brings up a menu for the function keys. 14.9 Scan Log by Mode This option lets you scan the logbook file and display QSOs LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 55 made using a particular mode. 14.10 Print Log This command prints the contents of the logbook file in a formatted manner to the printer. 14.11 Scan Log by Call This command displays the contents of the logbook file in a formatted manner on the screen. It requests the callsign of the log entry to be displayed. If you want to see entries for particular calls or parts of call, enter those call or parts of calls. Valid entries are G, G3, G3Z etc. If you want to see every entry in the log, don't use this command, use the Page Up and Page Down keys from the Main Log menu. 14.12 Update from Old data This option is identical to the Append option except that the date and time are not entered for you automatically. You'd use this option to manually enter old data into the logbook. 14.13 Exit From Log Menu This option lets you exit from the Log Menu. It provides the same function as the Alt-X key. 14.14 Fuzzy Scan This option allows you to scan the callsign or the comment field (your choice) for a character string. For example you could scan the comments field for all entries with the word "Joe". You could scan the callsigns for all calls with the suffix of "ZCZ". 15.0 Message Menu The Message Menu provides the following choices. B BBS Command Files C Current Messages N leave Note O Old Messages T Time tag V View Message Type in the single letter to make your choice. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 56 15.1 BBS Command Files This option shows you a list of the BBS command files on the default directory. In other words, all files with the file extension of '.BBS'. 15.2 Current Messages This option shows you a list of the outgoing messages that have not been sent. In other words, all files with the file extension of '.OUT'. 15.3 View Message This feature allows you to view messages in the computer. After depressing the key you will be prompted for INcoming or OUTgoing (I/O) messages. If you request 'I' (Incoming) messages you will see the messages addressed to your callsign. If you request 'O' (for OUTgoing) you will be presented with a directory window containing a list of messages. Move the cursor down to the desired message, and touch the 'Enter' key. If you don't want to view any of them, then move the cursor down to a blank line. If you have more messages than one screen full, use the Pgdn (Page Down) key to show the next screen full. 15.4 Leave Note This feature allows you to leave a note for another station on the LAN in your system. It works in the manner described in Section 8. 15.5 Old Messages This feature shows you a list of the messages that have been sent. In other words, all files with the file extension of '.OLD'. 15.6 Time Tag This option is used to place a date time header on a message file previously prepared by a word processor. The name of the file must be in the format 'CALLSIGN.OUT' (For example, G3ZCZ.OUT). It requests the callsign of the message file. It then opens a new file, writes the header to the new file and copies the contents of the original '*.OUT' file to the new one. When all is done, the original filename is changed to '*.BAK' and the new one becomes '*.OUT'. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 57 16.0 TNC Menu The TNC Menu provides the following choices. D Set TNC Date/Time F Flush TNC Buffer I Initialize TNC M calls Monitored List S Show Connect Status Q Change CQ Text X Change CTEXT Y Activate TNC Mailbox Z Deactivate TNC Mailbox Type in the single letter to make your choice. 16.1 Set TNC Date/Time This feature puts the TNC into the Command Mode and loads the date into it from the computer time of day clock. This command does not work on the TNC1. 16.2 Flush TNC Buffer This option is used to flush the program's outgoing text buffer and that of the PK-232. When used with other TNCs it will only flush contents (if any) of the outgoing buffer in the PC. 16.3 Initialize TNC This feature sets up the defaults for the TNC from the file LAN-LINK.SYS. If you have put batteries in the TNC, you should normally only have to run this command when you first power up the TNC or change the batteries. However, the batteries must be removed initially since they are there to retain the default settings of the TNC (particularly the PK- 232). Once the initialization is complete, you can replace the batteries but leave the TNC on since the battery pro- vides power to the RAMs after the TNC power is turned off. It will also set the date and time within the TNC from the computer clock, and, when it has loaded the configuration file, may prompt you to set the TNC Terminal mode. If you are using a TNC1 or a TNC2, it will not prompt you because it assumes that they only operate on VHF packet. If you are using a KPC-2, you may select 'H' or 'V', and of course, if you have a PK-232, you may choose any of the options. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 58 16.4 Show Calls Monitored List This feature performs the same operation as Function Key 5 (F5). 16.5 Show Connect Status When you are in the Packet Communications Mode, this command lets you see the state of the connection. It will show you if there are any unacknowledged packets en route to the other station. If you have been sending text, it is advisable to use this command before you disconnect, to ensure that all the data has been received and acknowledged by the other party. You may use this command in either the TNC Command or the TNC Converse Mode. In a multiconnect situation, it will show you the status on all the I/O channels. You may also use this command to reset the status window display after a relink or any other event which was not reflected in the status window. 16.6 Change CTEXT This feature allows you to change the message that will be received by another packet station when it connects to you. Refer to the 'CTEXT' command in the TNC manual. 16.7 Activate TNC Mailbox This option allows you to activate the Mailbox in your TNC. You use it to read your mail, or before shutting down, if you have not set the shut down mode to 5. When reading your TNC Mailbox mail, you must type the commands listed in your TNC manual. 16.8 Deactivate TNC Mailbox This option allows you to deactivate the Mailbox in your TNC. You use it after you have read your mail. 17.0 AMSAT-OSCAR Menu This menu allows you to configure the KAM, MFJ1278 or the PK-232 to copy signals from AMSAT-OSCAR Spacecraft telemetry beacons. The following options are available. A UoSAT ASCII Beacon B Phase 3 RTTY Beacon C SAREX Menu (only if you are in the Packet LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 59 Communications Mode) Type in the single letter to make your choice. 17.1 UoSAT ASCII Beacon This option is only available on the PK-232. It configures the PK-232 for receiving UoSAT 1200 Baud ASCII signals in the following manner. ASCII AB 1200 VHF ON (Bell 202 tones) RXR OFF TXR OFF WI ON (850 Hz shift) Signals from UoSAT-OSCAR 11 may be copied in this configura- tion. Note that although UoSAT-OSCAR 11 transmits Bell 202 compatible tones, the data sense is reversed. A hardware modification is required in the PK-232 to reverse the sense of the data at the modem output BEFORE it passes to the digital section of the unit. 17.2 Phase 3 RTTY Beacon This option configures the KAM, the MFJ1278 and the PK-232 for receiving the AMSAT-OSCAR 10 and 13 RTTY telemetry beacons in the following manner. BAUDOT WI OFF (170 Hz shift) [ KAM : SH 170] TXR OFF RXR OFF RB 50 (50 baud) USOS OFF (Unshift on space off) 17.3 SAREX Menu This menu is only active in the Packet Communications Mode. It is designed for use with the Shuttle Amateur Radio Exper- iment (SAREX) and the packet radio Microsats. Apart from the Attack Mode, it can also be used as a diagnostic LAN tool for monitoring LAN traffic. 17.3.1 Attack Mode ON/OFF If the Attack Mode is set, this option will cause LAN- LINK to issue a connect request to the SAREX Call whenever a packet sent to or from it is heard. The mode is cleared when the connect is made (and does not retry out) or when the 'A' option is selected a second LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 60 time, or when the Alert Call is cleared. If this mode is enabled, the Alert/SAREX Call prefix shown in the Status Window will indicate accordingly. A happy face will be displayed next to the '>' before the call once the connect has been achieved. Be careful using this feature, as it has the potential to cause a great deal of QRM. It can also be cleared by another station connecting to you and telling you to ':QRT:'. In the SAREX configuration you are listening on one channel while transmitting on an other. If this feature was used on a simplex channel (everyone transmits and listens on the same channel) aimed at a DX-pedition, there is a potential lockout mode, in which any one station sending a connect request to the desired/SAREX call will trigger the other ones on frequency who will in turn trigger the first. If this pile up situation occurs, I hope the DX-station will QSY and leave the automatic stations to do their thing. IN any event, if you use this feature and cause QRM, anyone can connect to you with the callsign of the DX station (as a pirate) and shut you down. You will then not get the coveted DX QSL. 17.3.2 Change SAREX Call This option lets you temporarily change the SAREX call. 17.3.3 SAREX Packets Capture to Disk ON/OFF This option allows you to configure LAN-LINK to capture to disk any packets addressed to or from the SAREX callsign. A [S] will be displayed in the status window when this option is active. The capture to disk file is opened by a packet header containing the SAREX call, and closed by another packet header not containing the call. When the file is open, the [S] will blink. Packet headers are considered to be lines with a '>' character in them. LAN-LINK thus considers both of the lines below as packet headers. N4QQ*>G3ZCZ N4QQ BBS> If you use this feature for monitoring BBS traffic, the BBS prompt lines ('E.G. N4QQ BBS>') will not be cap- tured to disk. Do not get your SYSOP to remove the '>' from the prompt line, or the ZAP feature will then not work. A happy face will be displayed in the [S] after the LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 61 SAREX call has been heard. If you want to see an ORBITER menu, temporarily change the SAREX call to be the same as your call and bring up the AMSAT-OSCAR Menu. 17.4 SAREX Orbiter Features You need the ROBOT EPROM for this menu to actually do any- thing. The EPROM may be available from The Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation (AMSAT) for DX-pedition use. In the Orbiter mode, LAN-LINK does not scan incoming text for the 'CONNECTED' and 'DISCONNECTED' messages when the SAREX Robot is active. This inhibits the bells and the capture-to-disk. It also means that the Robot must be OFF for any :Q: code uploads or downloads to occur. 17.4.1 Status Window Display A flashing '>>' appears in the status window when the SAREX robot is active. The SAREX Configuration boots up assuming that the SAREX Robot is active (Default). 17.4.2 Alt-O Function key. The Alt-O Function Key brings up the Orbiter menu. This is a faster route than the 'Esc O' sequence. 17.4.3 The Meta Beacon The Meta beacon is loaded from the contents of one of the META.00n files. These files may be created by the LAN-LINK editor. When loading, LAN-LINK will insert a pass charac- ter (^V) into the text before a carriage return, so as not to end the packet before at least 240 characters, and not more than 255 characters have been output to the TNC. The maximum number of characters that can be loaded into the Meta beacon is 1776. The maximum number of packets in a Meta beacon is 7. You can also end force a hard carriage return or 'end of packet' in the Meta beacon by using the '\' (backslash) character, which will not be transmitted. 17.4.4 SAREX Orbiter Menu The following commands are active in the Orbiter Menu. 17.4.4.1 Activates Beacons/SAREX Robot. This option activates the SAREX Robot and loads Meta Beacon. This command is designed for use when the LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 62 SAREX is returned to the regular frequency. 17.4.4.2 Set QRZ/QSL Beacon Interval This command allows you to change the beacon timer. The default value is 120. 17.4.4.3 Set SAREX Call. This command allows you to change the SAREX call. Don't use this command on orbit (its for ground use only) 17.4.4.4 Turn SAREX ROBOT OFF The Robot must be turned On and Off this way to syn- chronize LAN-LINK to the TNC. When the Robot is turned OFF the following commands are sent to the TNC by LAN- LINK. USERS 1 |A RO OFF CMSG OFF NO OFF 17.4.4.5 Set SAREX ROBOT Heard Count This command lets you set the Heard Count number. 17.4.4.6 Show I/O Status Shows who is on each stream, the SAREX Robot state, the number of USERS, the beacon timer value, the metabeacon timer value and the CTEXT. 17.4.4.7 ChecK Count Shows both heard and worked counts. 17.4.4.8 List Heard Calls Lists calls of the last few stations heard. 17.4.4.9 Load Metabeacon This command loads the Metabeacon. You will be prompt- ed for a text file number in the META.00n series. Enter a number 1-9 corresponding to META.001-META.009. The 0 value is file META.010. Note the delays after loading the file to allow the TNC to stabilize. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 63 17.4.4.10 Show Worked Calls Shows the last 35 or so calls worked. 17.4.4.11 Turn SAREX ROBOT ON The SAREX Robot must be turned On and Off via the menu. When the Robot is turned ON the following commands are sent to the TNC by LAN-LINK. USERS 9 CONOK ON CMSG ON RO ON NO ON 17.4.4.12 Stop Metabeacon This command stops the Meta beacon. When activated, the contents of the beacon are dumped to the UNPROTO address (default SAREX) by the TNC, rather like a regular BBS dumping packets when a user disconnects abnormally. 17.4.4.13 Set Metabeacon Interval This command allows you to set the Meta Beacon timer. It will be loaded into the TNC the next time that the Meta Beacon is loaded. Even though loaded into the TNC immediately, it does not take effect till then. 17.4.4.14 Set SAREX ROBOT Worked Count Lets you set the number. 17.4.4.15 Set Connect TeXt This is the text (CTEXT) that will be transmitted to an incoming station when the ROBOT mode is off. This option lets you set up a new text string to go with the QSO number. 17.4.4.16 Selects Silent Mode This command turns off the beacons, the SAREX Robot and also stops the Meta beacon. This command is designed to be used just before any prearranged packet activity. 17.4.4.17 Restart TNC This command RESTARTs the TNC, loads the date from the computer's clock and turns the 'EC OFF'. It seems to LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 64 have no effect on the SAREX ROBOT and counters, but does kill the Meta beacon. 17.4.4.18 Capture QSL/QRZ Calls This command initiates the log-to-disk operation. It turns the capture-to-disk 'on' and sends the following commands to the TNC :- 'DA', 'SERW', 'SERH','MW',MH'. When the calls have stopped scrolling, use Function key 1 to turn the capture-to-disk off. 18.0 Parameter Menu The Parameter Menu provides the following choices. B Turn Beacon Mode ON/OFF 0 Change Band/Mode C Clear Connect Count 1 Change BBS Parameters D Turn Digipeat Detect ON/OFF 2 Change Callsigns E Turn Command Echo ON/OFF 3 Change Directories F Stay Connected after BBSZapp 4 Enter Common Calls I Turn Beacon ON/OFF 5 Change File Names K Change Keyboard Beep Count 6 Change LAN-LINK Parameters L Turn Ctdsk ON/OFF 7 Change PC Communications Params M Set Message Count 8 Change Colors N Turn NODE Drop Link ON/OFF 9 Change SAREX Parameters P Turn Printer ON/OFF U Update LAN-LINK.SYS Q Turn QTC Snatch ON/OFF V Verify Changes R Turn :QSP: Relay Flag ON/OFF W Change Scan Words S Turn Sound ON/OFF T Turn Contest Mode ON/OFF X Turn DCD Flag ON/OFF ! Zapp BBS on Next Beacon Y Turn BBS Snatch ON/OFF + Turn Misc. Flag ON/OFF Z Turn Time Id. ON/OFF The colors used for the option letter differentiate between those options that are "remembered" in the SYS file and those that are only set temporarily for the session. Type in the single letter to make your choice. 18.1 Turn Beacon Mode ON/OFF This command toggles the beacon option for the automatic CQ caller in the AMTOR and Packet Communications Modes. When it is active a [B] will be displayed in the status window. In this mode, the Automatic CQ sequence will resume after the AMTOR link is dropped or a Packet Communications Mode disconnect. In the Beacon Mode, the last few logbook entries will be displayed in the logpage window which overlays the outgoing text window at the bottom of the screen. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 65 In the Packet Mode, the CTEXT message is the only transmis- sion from you that the other station will receive, so make it good and don't forget to set 'CMSG ON'. In the AMTOR Mailbox/Beacon Mode, the contents of the LAN- LINK.TXT file will be transmitted to the station who called you. The capture-to-disk will then be turned on to record one transmission from that station. The QSO will then be logged to the logbook file. Don't forget to check the entries in the LAN-LINK.LOG and text in the LAN-LINK.RUN files in case the computer made a mistake in recognizing the call sign of the other station. THE BEACON MODE IS DESIGNED TO ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO QSY OFF THE CROWDED PACKET HF CHANNELS. DO NOT USE IT ON A CROWDED HF CHANNEL OR ON AN ACTIVE VHF CHANNEL. IF YOU DO, YOU WILL SOON FIND THAT OTHER STATIONS HAVE SET THEIR TNCS TO REJECT YOUR PACKETS, AND YOU WILL NOT WORK ANYBODY, YOU WILL JUST BE A SOURCE OF QRM AND WILL BE KNOWN AS SUCH. THE MODE IS ALSO DESIGNED FOR ROBOT BEACONS FOR THE HIGHER FREQUENCIES. FOR EXAMPLE IF YOU LEAVE IT RUNNING ON 6 OR 10 METERS YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN A SHORT OPENING WILL ALLOW A QSO TO SOME PART OF THE WORLD, A DX CONTACT YOU WOULD HAVE OTHERWISE MISSED. DO NOT LEAVE IT RUNNING ON 20 METERS WHEN THE BAND IS OPEN. FURTHER APPLICATIONS ARE IN METEOR- SCATTER AND OTHER "EXOTIC" MODES OF COMMUNICATIONS. If you are using this Mode in a special event station or DX- pedition you may type characters into the transmit buffer, while the other station is sending to you. When he, she or even it turns it back to you, you will transmit those characters before the sign-off sequence. In both the Packet and AMTOR communications modes, the robot may be shut down by stations connecting to you and telling you to QRT. 18.2 Clear Connect Count You use this option to reset the PACKET and AMTOR Beacon Mode "connect has taken place indicator" and QTC Snatch count. These are flashing [C] and [Q] displays in the status window. Whenever someone else connects or links up to you the [C] display will be incremented. The number shown with the 'C' is the number of connects that have taken place since the Indicator was last reset. If a 'happy face' is flashing along with the connect count, your "target station" was amongst those connecting. The [Q] indicator alerts you to the fact that LAN-LINK tried to connect to another station after recognizing your call in a mail LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 66 beacon. Both are reset by this option. If you are monitoring Packet traffic on a channel, you may not notice that a connect has previously taken place. These indicators alert you to check the contents of the Incoming mail file ('yourcall.OUT') for any incoming messages. If the 'Q' count is much greater than the 'C' count you may be copying a beacon from a station that you cannot connect with directly. 18.3 Turn Digipeat Detect ON/OFF This option toggles the digipeat display command on and off. If the Digipeat Display is active, any signals digipeated through you will be stored to the LAN-LINK.RUN file and a 'beep' will be sounded for each packet being digipeated. The status display window will also contain a [D]. 18.4 Turn Beacon Control ON/OFF This option toggles the LAN-LINK Handshake features. When they are on (default), the Connect handshake message [ZCZ] *** LAN-LINK 1.58> will be transmitted on incoming connects. The beacon text and time will be controlled by LAN-LINK as a function of the messages you have posted on your system. When they are off, LAN-LINK does not do anything to your beacon, nor does it transmit the handshake. 18.5 Turn Command Echo ON/OFF This option toggles the 'Command ECHO ON/OFF' flag. If the Command Echo flag is set, the commands and (contents of) files that LAN-LINK sends to the TNC will be displayed in the outgoing window. Set this flag to see how LAN-LINK commands the TNC in the different modes. 18.6 Change Keyboard Beep Count LAN-LINK counts the number of characters entered on a line at the keyboard. When it gets to a preset value it will beep, signaling you to start a new line. This option changes the value that the keyboard beep counter is compared with to sound the audio signal. 18.7 Set Message Count As an alternative to Function Key 8 (F8) or Alt-D, using this option will also load a QTC 'Mail' list into your Packet Communications Mode Beacon and initiate a beacon LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 67 transmission every 30 minutes (Refer to the BTEXT command in the TNC manual). If no messages are present, or the only message is to you (incoming or snatched), beacon transmissions are inhibited. This conforms to good operating practice on crowded Packet channels. 18.8 Turn NODE Drop Link ON/OFF When connecting via NET/ROM, the normal way of operating is to disconnect if the connect attempt fails. You may configure the NET/ROM connect attempt flag to stay connected at the node where the failure occurred. Use the normal mode when trying to get through on a known path, and the stay alive mode when exploring NET/ROM circuits. 18.9 Turn Printer ON/OFF This option toggles the printer on and off. When the printer is turned on, any incoming data will be printed in real time. If you intend to print files received at 1200 baud in the Packet Communications Mode, use a print spooler or you may lose data. The printer is automatically turned off in the Packet Mode when a disconnect occurs. 18.10 Turn QTC Snatch ON/OFF This option toggles the QTC Snatch flag on and off. If the QTC Snatch flag is enabled, LAN-LINK scans the contents of packets appearing in the Inwindow on the screen while the terminal is disconnected. Should it recognize the three text strings 'LAN-LINK', ':QTC:', and 'your callsign' in the contents of a packet, it will then issue a connect request to the callsign of the LAN-LINK station that originated the beacon transmission. If the connect is made, the other station will send you the message automatically which LAN-LINK will "capture to disk". The connect will time out and terminate a few minutes later. The normal connect request will be made DIRECT to the station. If you expect messages from stations you can only connect with via a digipeater, place the path in your LAN- LINK.DIR directory file. It should be there anyhow if you connect to the station regularly. For example, if you expect messages from 4Z4ZB whom you can only work if digipeated via 4X1AA then place an entry like 4Z4ZB 4Z4ZB V 4X1AA in the LAN-LINK.DIR file. The QTC Snatch leaves your messages in a message file <yourcall>.OUT. It is triggered by the first > in the LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 68 initial connect response of LAN-LINK 1.55R> (note the '>') and terminated by the 'over' at the end of the message ea. G3ZCZ/W8> (note the '>'). If you train stations not using LAN-LINK who want to leave you messages to trigger your QTC- Snatch, by transmitting the following unaddressed packet LAN-LINK :QTC: <yourcall> your system will connect to them. (For example to leave a message for me, they would send LAN-LINK :QTC: G3ZCZ as an unaddressed packet [in Converse Mode when not connected, or in their beacon text].) If they then send you a '>' on a line by itself, followed by the message itself, and terminated by another '>' as the last character of the line, the message will end up in a message file rather than in the LAN-LINK.RUN file and you can scan it fast using Alt-M (Message Scan Menu Options). It goes without saying that the message itself should not contain the '>' character. If it does, by the way, the first part of the message will be in the message file, while the remainder will be in the LAN-LINK.RUN file. 18.11 Turn :QSP: Relay Flag ON/OFF This option toggles the Store and forward Message Relay Capability of your system on and off. If the Message Relay Capability is active (toggled on), any one who connects can store a message in your system using the ':QSP: <callsign>' NC/L command. If the Message Relay Capability is not active anyone who attempts to ':QSP: a message' will receive a ':QNO: 1' "error" message. The status display window will show a [R] when the Message Relay Capability is active. The default state for the Message Relay Capability is loaded from the LAN-LINK.SYS file. When the Store and forward capability is active, the suffix 'R' will be added to the '[ZCZ] *** LAN-LINK 1.58' ie., '[ZCZ] *** LAN-LINK 1.58R' message received by anyone connecting to your system to notify them that they can store messages. In this manner they don't have to try to leave a message and then get ':QNO:' error message to find out that the feature is toggled off. Remember, if you configure your computer to store and forward messages, you have a moral obligation to deliver LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 69 them. 18.12 Turn Sound ON/OFF This option toggles the sound on and off. If the sound is off, a flashing indicator will be displayed in the Status Window. When the sound is toggled on again, a chime will sound to verify the audio. 18.13 Turn Contest Mode ON/OFF This option first toggles the Contest Mode. If the Contest Mode is active, the word 'TEST' and the number of the next QSO will be displayed in the status window. When the Contest Mode is toggled on, this command then prompts you to set the starting QSO number and the standard message that will be transmitted as part of the exchange of messages during a contest. The QSO number will be incremented each time you log a contact. There are two special character sequences that you can enter in the contest text string. If you enter a double '#' sign, as in '##', it will be replaced by the QSO number when the text is transmitted. You may also use '#1' to represent the callsign of the station being worked in the contest text string. For example, use the following entries for the following contests; '##1 UR ##A' ... in the Sweepstakes, '5905' ... in the WAZ, '59 MD' ... in the ARRL DX, and '59 ##' ... in the WPX. As an example, if I (W3/G3ZCZ) was in the Sweepstakes con- test, and my Contest text line was, '##1 UR ##A W3/G3ZCZ 68 MDC'. If the next QSO number is 345, and I am working KW3C, LAN- LINK would transmit the following line when I touch the 'End' key; 'KW3C UR 345A W3/G3ZCZ 68 MDC'. The contest feature is toggled off the next time you select this feature. Note that while this does give you some semiautomatic contest operation by using command keys, there is no checking of callsigns for duplicates built into the program. You may do that by using the Alt-S hot key. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 70 In a contest, you enter the callsigns and call the other station in the normal manner, then use the 'End' Key to transmit the exchange (QSO number and standard text). LAN- LINK will only transmit the contest text in this manner. If you want to add a 'K' or 'KN', you will need to put it in the contest text string. It is also advisable to use a different log file for each contest to cut down the search time. The contest QSO number increments each time you log the QSO (Alt-L). You may put the Contest Mode into automatic if you are operating AMTOR or packet. To do so, use the Alt-O function key. 18.14 Turn DCD Flag ON/OFF If you are using a KAM or a PK-232 then this flag should be set to ON. If you are using another TNC, if you can jumper the TNC so that pin 8 on the RS-232 interface changes state when connected, do so and set this flag to ON. If you can't, then set this flag to OFF. If this flag is OFF, the multiple connect modes will not work so don't attempt to invoke them. If this flag is OFF, the words '*** CONNECTED' and '*** DISCONNECTED' when seen in the LAN may cause spurious apparent connects and disconnects in LAN-LINK. 18.15 Turn BBS Snatch ON/OFF If the BBS Mail Snatch is enabled, when a BBS sends a packet announcing 'Mail', if your callsign is in the first line of that message, LAN-LINK will issue a connect request (again via the path in LAN-LINK.DIR) to that BBS. When connected, it will act as if you have initiated a ZapBBS command. The Zap counter will be incremented each time a BBS Mail Snatch takes place. A typical KAM display which triggers a BBS Mail Snatch for any of the calls listed below follows. N4QQ>MAIL/V [09/03/89 18:49:24]: LstMsg# 19428 Mail: N4FG KL7VZ WA6IEL N7DVA W4TNX G3ZCZ Note if the BBS Mail beacon has an extra line in it (between the header and the list of calls) as follows, the BBS Mail snatch will not work. N4QQ>MAIL/V [09/03/89 18:49:24]: BBS Serving Silver Spring Md. LstMsg# 19428 Mail: N4FG KL7VZ WA6IEL N7DVA W4TNX G3ZCZ If a message is posted for any call containing the character string "N4FG" such as N4FGA, N4FG will respond to the mes- LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 71 sage. This gives rise to a lock out situation, because N4FG will respond to the beacon, go through the sequence de- scribed in the Zapbbs section and disconnect. The beacon message will not be cleared because it was not read, so the next mail beacon from the BBS will contain the call N4FGA, and N4FG will once again respond to it. Should you be unlucky and happen to be in this situation, disable the BBS Snatch flag and set a Periodic Event to Zap your BBS sometime in the middle of the night. Alternatively, when you come into the shack and the BBS is in use, set the 'Zapp BBS on Next Mail Beacon' parameter to ON (See Section 18.32). 18.16 Turn Time Id ON/OFF This option is only active in the PK-232. It allows you to determine if the callsign sequence transmitted using Function key 3 (F3) will contain a date/time stamp. If the Id is set ON a date/time stamp will be transmitted. 18.17 Turn Automatic Capture-to-Disk Flag ON/OFF This option allows you to turn the automatic capture-to-disk ON and OFF. 18.18 Change BBS Parameters This sub-menu allows you to change the BBS Parameters, as described in the following paragraphs. 18.18.1 Local BBS Callsign This option lets you change the call of the local BBS. This is the call that LAN-LINK will show in the prompt for the 'Zap' command. 18.18.2 Mail-Snatch Trigger Word You can set the Mail-Snatch Trigger in the BBS Mail beacon. Most BBS's use word 'Mail' and a string of calls to indicate the presence of messages. If your BBS uses something else, you may customize LAN-LINK on this line to tell it what word your BBS uses. Note that if your BBS uses 'QTC' you may end up calling yourself if you disconnect while traffic is flowing on the LAN. 18.18.3 Read Request Command This is the command LAN-LINK issues to the BBS during a LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 72 Zap sequence to request your mail. The default value is RM for Read Mine. On a WA7MBL BBS you may change it to VM for a Verbose Read of the full packet headers. On a W0RLI BBS you may change it to RN to only request new messages. If you do change it, use the 'V' option in the Parameters Menu to make sure it is correct. If it isn't correct, the Zap BBS feature will not work. 18.18.4 Read Bulletin Request Command This is the command LAN-LINK issues to the BBS during a Zap sequence to read bulletins identified by the scan words. The default value is R for Read. On a WA7MBL BBS you may change it to V for a Verbose Read of the full packet headers. On a W0RLI BBS you may change it to RH. 18.19 Change Callsigns This sub-menu allows you to change the Callsign and AMTOR SELCAL, as described in the following paragraphs. 18.19.1 Callsign The default callsign is G8BTB. Please do not use G8BTB. Replace G8BTB with yours. You may use / characters if you wish. This is the call sign that will be used in the non packet modes. You may thus use "portable designators" such as G3ZCZ/A, G3ZCZ/W3, W3/G3ZCZ or G3ZCZ/4X, which you cannot do in Packet. This is the call that will be monitored for in the Digipeat Monitoring Mode. In this Mode, which is toggled on and off by the selection of the D Option included in the Parameter Menu (PK-232 only), if someone uses you as a digipeater while you are not connected to anyone else, the event will be logged to disk. This Mode will only work if your callsign as stored in this line is a valid (uppercase only) packet callsign. For example, in the PK-232, if the callsign is G3ZCZ then the sequence >G3ZCZ> will be recognized as a digipeat and the event logged. Thus 4X6AA*>G3ZCZ>4Z4ZB would be logged as a digipeat event. Store your callsign using UPPERCASE characters if you want the DIGIPEAT DETECT option to work (EA. G3ZCZ). If you use lower case (ea. g3zcz), recognition will never take place. The TNC automatically converts case to upper case in the non packet communications modes. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 73 If you are using an SSID (e.g. G3ZCZ-8) in the Packet Communications Mode, you should enter the whole call INCLUDING the SSID. 18.19.2 The SELCAL This is your AMTOR SELCAL. LAN-LINK will try to guess it and prompt you with a SELCAL configured for your callsign. If you want a different one, overwrite the prompted version. If you are not using a PK-232 or KAM or the MFJ1278, the SELCAL must still be in the Configuration file. 18.19.3 The PacketCluster Call This option allows you to change the PacketCluster Call without connecting to it. 18.20 Change Directories This sub-menu allows you to change the Directories used by LAN-LINK, as described in the following paragraph. 18.20.1 QBM Download Directory This is the directory the :QBM: command will search to find a file to be downloaded. The default value is \LAN-LINK\FILES\. Set them up using DOS. If you are using a hard disk, put LAN-LINK in a LAN-LINK subdirectory. Note: that last '\' MUST be present. 18.21 Enter Common Calls Each time you call another station, LAN-LINK remembers it (up to the last 16). When you update the SYS file, these calls that you use most commonly will be saved to disk. You can use this option to add calls, delete calls or edit calls in the list. Use the 'Delete' key to delete a call. 18.22 Change File Names This sub-menu allows you to change the default file names used by LAN-LINK, as described in the following paragraphs. 18.22.1 VHF Logbook File (VHF.DBF) This is the name of the file to be used as your VHF Packet logbook. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 74 18.22.2 HF Logbook File (HF.DBF) This is the name of the file to be used as your HF logbook. It is used for all modes, including HF packet. 18.22.3 Path Directory File (LAN-LINK.DIR) This is the name of the file used as your call directory. 18.22.4 Brag Tape (LAN-LINK.TXT) This is the name of the file used as your brag tape. 18.22.5 QBU Upload File Name (QBU-TX.BAT) This is the name of the batch file used to initiate a QBU. 18.22.6 QBU Download File Name (QBU-RX.BAT) This is the name of the batch file used when a :QBU: command is received from a remote station. 18.23 Change LAN-LINK Parameters This sub-menu allows you to change the LAN-LINK Parameters, as described in the following paragraphs. 18.23.1 Change CQ Text This feature allows you to change the contents of the CQ text message string. This is the message string that is transmitted along with the CQ call. Think of this message as a CQTEXT line. 18.23.2 Set the Default Band The default value is 2 for 2 Meters. Use the Meter value for the band to keep the display correct. It is displayed in the status window. If you normally operate on another band change the default value to reflect your usual default state. 18.23.3 Set the Default Transmitter Power The default value is 10 for 10 watts. It is displayed in the status window. If your transmitter uses a different power level change the default value to reflect your usual default state. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 75 18.23.4 Set CQ delay time Seconds This option allows you to change the time (seconds) that the LAN-LINK waits for a response after a CQ call until the following one is transmitted. The default value (in minutes and seconds) is loaded from the LAN- LINK.SYS file. 18.23.5 Set CQ delay time Minutes This option allows you to change the time (minutes) that the LAN-LINK waits for a response after a CQ call until the following one is transmitted. The default value (in minutes and seconds) is loaded from the LAN- LINK.SYS file. 18.23.6 Set Number of lines in a Non Contest CQ Call This option allows you to change the number of lines in a CQ call from the default value of 3 to any number you wish. Note that in the contest mode, this option has no effect. This parameter is not remembered when LAN- LINK is terminated, so if you want to use a value other than 3, you will have to set it each time you operate this program. 18.23.7 Set Shut Down Mode (QRT Flag) This option allows you to customize the shut down sequence of the TNC. You have the choice of QRT, QRV and QRV + CTEXT Toggle as described in the following sections. 18.23.7.1 QRT Turns the TNC into a VHF Digipeater and turns CONOK OFF (CFROM NONE for the PK-232). In this condition the TNC will reject connect requests. 18.23.7.2 QRV Allows you to stay alive on turnoff. It will send MON OFF (MON 0 for the PK-232) to the TNC at shutdown without touching CONOK/CFROM {PK-232}, and at turn on. You will then have to initialize the terminal and Communications Mode after reading your mail. Connects should then be logged at the time you read the mail, not at the time they took place. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 76 18.23.7.3 QRV + CTEXT TOGGLE This is the same as the QRV state but CMSG is toggled on/off. When stations connect to you while LAN-LINK is active, they will not receive the CTEXT message. When other stations connect to you while LAN-LINK is not active, they will receive the CTEXT message 18.23.7.4 BBS This option lets you activate the PBBS in the TNC when you close LAN-LINK. It inhibits the PBBS when you bring LAN-LINK up the next time. 18.23.7.5 SOLO This option puts the TNC in the SOLO mode when you shut down, so as not to fill the buffer in the TNC. 18.23.7.6 BBS+SOLO This option combines the two previous ones. Set this value as follows, 0 = QRT, 1 = QRV, 2 = QRV + CMSG toggle, 3 = BBS, 4 = SOLO, and 5 = BBS+SOLO. 18.23.8 Set Default Users This option allows you to set the maximum number of multiple users that can be connected to your TNC at the same time, and to configure the default start up mode of the program. If this parameter is set to 1, LAN- LINK will configure itself to the single user mode, and set the maximum number of users to 9. If this parameter is set to any number other that 1, LAN-LINK will assume that value to be the maximum number of allowed connects, and configure itself in the Multiple user Mode (equivalent to the TNC Menu Option 0). 18.24 Change PC Communications Parameters This sub-menu allows you to change the Communications Param- eters between the PC and the TNC, as described in the fol- lowing paragraphs. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 77 18.24.1 The Communications Port This is the default Communications port. The default value is 1. You may set it at any value between 1 and 4. If you only have one serial port in your PC, set the parameter to '1' even if your card is configured as COM2. LAN-LINK will ALWAYS assume COM1 for a single card. The Com3 and Com4 port addresses are as follows. Port Address IRQ Com3 3E8 4 Com4 2E8 3 18.24.2 The Terminal Baud Rate This Parameter tells LAN-LINK what baud rate the TNC is set to. This is the baud rate on the RS-232 line between the TNC and the computer. Valid baud rates for LAN-LINK are 300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600 and 19,200. If you specify something else LAN-LINK will default to 1200. You may experience problems when using baud rates greater than 1200. It depends on the CPU clock rate and the I/O card in the PC. LAN-LINK scans the incom- ing text constantly, something which requires time. My PK-232, when used with my XT Clone at 10MHz, does not like baud rates faster than 2400, and sometimes not even that. The PK-232 seems to drop the first charac- ter of some lines at 4800 baud. Use 1200 until you have tested and are sure that a faster one will work. This program has been tested on a TNC2 and an MFJ1278 using a terminal baud rate of 9600 baud and worked correctly. It also works correctly with a KAM at 2400 Baud. 18.24.3 TNC Data Bits You can set the number of data bits on the RS-232 line between the computer and TNC to 7 or 8. Use 7 with a TNC 2 if you have problems with Greek characters. Set this value to either 7 or 8. 18.24.4 TNC Parity Use this parameter to set the Parity bit on the RS-232 line between the computer and TNC as described below. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 78 0 = None, 1 = Odd, 2 = Even, 3 = Mark, 4 = Space. 18.24.5 Number of TNC Stop Bits You can set the number of stop bits on the RS-232 line between the computer and the TNC to 1 or 2. Use 1 at all terminal (not packet) baud rates except 300. Set this value to 1 or 2. 18.25 Change Colors This option lets you change the default colors. A display of all of the combinations is shown on the left side of the screen. You will then be prompted to sequence through each window/message color that can be customized. Enter the number shown in the combination window followed by the 'Enter' key to set a value. If you don't wish to make a change, just press the 'Enter' Key. The following identifications are made to the color choices: 18.25.1 OutWindow Color This is the color of the text (typed at the keyboard) in the outgoing window. 18.25.2 StatusWindow Color This is the color of the Status Window. 18.25.3 PromptWindow Color This is the color of most of the menus. 18.25.4 LogWindow Color This is the color of the text in the log window. 18.25.5 InWindow Color This is the color of the text in the window showing the incoming characters. 18.25.6 ScrollBackWindow color This is the color of the text in the Scroll back window. 18.25.7 MHWindow Color This is the color of the text in the monitor heard LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 79 calls (MH) window. 18.25.8 Alarmwindow Color This is the color of the text in the Error and Alarm window. 18.25.9 BottomWindow Color This is the color of the text in the prompt line at the bottom of the screen. 18.25.10 Emphasis Color This is the color of the emphasized text in the Menu windows. 18.25.11 Prompt Color This is the color of the prompt text in the Menu windows. 18.25.12 Option Color This is the color of selected option text in the Menu windows. 18.25.13 Connected Text Color This is the color of the text in the incoming window when connected in the packet communications modes. 18.25.14 Computer Color This is the color of the computer generated text in the outgoing window when the Command Echo Flag option is enabled. 18.25.15 VHF Header Color This is the color of the VHF Header lines in the Incoming window when not connected. 18.25.16 HF Header Color This is the color of the HF Header lines in the Incoming window when not connected. 18.25.17 Alert Call Color This is the color of the packet header lines containing the Alert call in the Incoming window when not LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 80 connected. It is also the color of the non-permanent Parameter Menu prompts. 18.25.18 Outgoing Text Color This is the color of the outgoing text echoed in the Incoming window in the AMTOR Communications Mode. 18.25.19 Multi I/O Stream Color[1] This is the color of the text lines in the Incoming window in the Multiconnect Mode when connected to I/O stream 1. 18.25.20 Multi I/O Stream Color[2] This is the color of the text lines in the Incoming window in the Multiconnect Mode when connected to I/O stream 2. 18.25.21 Multi I/O Stream Color[3] This is the color of the text lines in the Incoming window in the Multiconnect Mode when connected to I/O stream 3. 18.25.22 Multi I/O Stream Color[4] This is the color of the text lines in the Incoming window in the Multiconnect Mode when connected to I/O stream 4. 18.25.23 Multi I/O Stream Color[5] This is the color of the text lines in the Incoming window in the Multiconnect Mode when connected to I/O stream 5. 18.25.24 Multi I/O Stream Color[6] This is the color of the text lines in the Incoming window in the Multiconnect Mode when connected to I/O stream 6. 18.25.25 Multi I/O Stream Color[7] This is the color of the text lines in the Incoming window in the Multiconnect Mode when connected to I/O stream 7. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 81 18.25.26 Multi I/O Stream Color[8] This is the color of the text lines in the Incoming window in the Multiconnect Mode when connected to I/O stream 8. 18.25.27 Multi I/O Stream Color[9] This is the color of the text lines in the Incoming window in the Multiconnect Mode when connected to I/O stream 9. 18.25.28 Multi I/O Stream Color[10] This is the color of the text lines in the Incoming window in the Multiconnect Mode when connected to I/O stream 10. NOTE that LAN-LINK does not overwrite all existing windows. Thus if you want to be sure of seeing the changed colors, save the color changes using the Update option, and then exit from and reload LAN-LINK. 18.26 Change SAREX Parameters This sub-menu allows you to change the SAREX Ground Station parameters, as described in the following paragraphs. 18.26.1 SAREX CallSign This is the callsign of the SAREX station. 18.26.2 Change SAREX Capture to Disk File This option lets you change the name of the SAREX Capture-to-disk file. Don't change file names while capture-to-disk is in progress (flashing [S] in the status window), or the old one will stay open and may not close properly when LAN-LINK is terminated, result- ing in data loss. 18.27 Update Configuration File Use this option to save the changes (permanently) in the configuration file (LAN-LINK.SYS). 18.28 Verify Changes This feature lets you display how LAN-LINK was configured by the LAN-LINK.SYS file. It also displays the state of any flags you have set/reset if they are not already shown in the Status window or Parameter Menu. YOU SHOULD USE IT LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 82 AFTER EDITING THE LAN-LINK.SYS FILE TO MAKE SURE THAT EVERYTHING IS CORRECT. 18.29 Change Scan Words In the ZAP BBS feature you can ask the program to scan the lines read from the BBS and if it sees any of the scan words in the line, it will queue a request for that bulletin by number. You can only set 16 such Scan words (should be enough) and request up to 63 messages/bulletins at a time. Use the 'Delete' key to delete a word from the list. NOTE that words that show up in the BBS prompt line are ILLEGAL. For example if your BBS prompts you with N4QQ BBS> then 'N4QQ' and 'BBS' should not be used as Scan Words. DON'T LEAVE A BLANK LINE IN THE SCAN WORD SECTION OF THE CONFIGURATION FILE. 18.30 Turn Misc. Flag ON/OFF The Miscellaneous Flag performs several different functions in the different Communications modes as follows. 18.30.1 All Modes:- Debug or state-sequence numbers Shows debug or state-sequence numbers in left hand corner of the status window. These are used to figure out what went wrong in the automatic sequences. 18.30.2 BAUDOT Mode:- Navy MARS Protocol Verify When the flag is set, and the BAUDOT Navy MARS option is enabled, the character string ':CR:' will be displayed in the outgoing window each time a carriage return character is received in the incoming window. Similarly, every time a line feed character is received, a ':LF:' will be displayed in the incoming window. You may use this feature to verify that another station is sending files using the correct protocol. If you do, make sure that you tell the PK-232 not to add a line feed to incoming carriage returns by setting 'ALFD OFF' in the Command Mode. You will have to set 'ALFD ON' again when you change communications modes or all incoming lines will overwrite each other. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 83 18.31 Change Band/Mode This option is used to set the band and radio mode without invoking the Log Menu. You use it when changing from packet vhf to an hf mode. 18.32 Zapp BBS on Next Mail Beacon This parameter causes LAN-LINK to Zapp your local BBS next time it beacons with a list of calls for which it has Mail. You use this when you want to upload a set of messages, and are not sure if there are any messages waiting for you on the BBS. A typical situation is where there are a lot of NTS messages stacked up in the BBS.BBS file waiting to go. This parameter will be reset when the connect goes through, so if the Zapp attempt failed, it will try again on the following Mail beacon. This will not work in the Multi-user mode. 18.33 BBS Zapp, Don't Disconnect After Sequence This parameter stops LAN-LINK from issuing the automatic disconnect when the Zapp sequence is over. You can set it during the Zapp sequence. Use it to stop the disconnect if the sequence gets out of sync with the messages, or if there is something interesting you wish to do to the BBS. This parameter resets when the Zapp sequence terminates. 19.0 Q Codes [NC/L] This option displays help information about the use of the Network Communications Language (NC/L) "Q" codes. 20.0 Communications Modes This menu allows you to change the communications mode of the TNC. If your TNC hardware cannot support those modes, don't bother to try them. This is software not hardware, and in spite of what people tell you, software can't do everything. The following communications modes are available. V VHF PACKET H HF PACKET A AMTOR (STANDBY RECEIVE) B BAUDOT (RTTY) C MORSE (CW) M AMTOR (ALIST [chirpcopy]) S ASCII (RTTY) G SIGNAL N NAVTEX Type in the single letter to make your choice. Don't forget to select the correct Radio port on the PK-232. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 84 20.1 VHF PACKET This is the 1200 baud VHF Packet Mode. LAN-LINK will opti- mize the TNC link parameters for this mode. 20.2 HF PACKET This is the 300 baud HF Packet Mode. LAN-LINK will optimize the TNC link parameters for this Mode. 20.3 ASCII (RTTY) This is the ASCII RTTY Mode. LAN-LINK will configure the TNC parameters for this Mode at 110 baud. 20.4 BAUDOT (RTTY) This is the BAUDOT RTTY Mode. LAN-LINK will configure the TNC parameters for this Mode at 45 baud. 20.5 MORSE (CW) This is the CW Mode. LAN-LINK will configure the TNC parame- ters for this Mode at 20 wpm (10 wpm for the KAM). In this Mode the ALT-D Key will disengage the receive speed lock inside the PK-232 to facilitate locking onto another signal and Function Key 8 (F8) will turn the transmitter off. 20.6 AMTOR (STANDBY RECEIVE) When you select the AMTOR Standby Mode you are placed into the 'Standby Receive' Mode. If you are in AMTOR Standby Mode, you will not be able to display signals of the Chirpcopy Mode (which means that you will not be able to display a QSO in progress). The Alt-D Key or Function Key 8 (F8) toggles between the AMTOR ARQ and the ALIST communications modes. 20.7 AMTOR (ALIST [chirpcopy]) If you want to read the mail on an existing AMTOR QSO in progress, select the AMTOR ALIST or Chirpcopy Mode. The Alt-D key or Function key 8 (F8) toggles between the AMTOR ARQ and the ALIST communications modes. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 85 20.8 SIGNAL Use the 'G' option to select the 'SIGNAL' Mode. Read the PK-232 documentation carefully to understand how this mode works. Once the PK-232 has identified the digital signal it is tuned to, use the Communications Mode Select Menu a second time to select the relevant mode and then set the baud rates and shift to display the data if necessary. 20.9 NAVTEX Use the 'N' option to select the 'NAVTEX Mode. Read the PK- 232 documentation carefully to understand how this Mode works. 21.0 Terminal Mode Menu This menu allows you to set the Terminal Configuration Mode. The Terminal Menu provides different choices depending on which communications mode you have selected. 21.1 Packet Terminal Menu The Packet Terminal Mode of operation will be shown in the Status window at the top of the screen. If you are reading the mail on a station, the callsign of that station will be shown next to the word "MAIL". If you are connected to someone, the call (and path) will be shown prefixed by the "*>" sequence. In the Packet Communications Mode, you are presented with the following choices. B Change Packet Baud Rate C CQ/Beacons E Everything M Read the Mail S Just My Station (Solo) T All Traffic 0 Multiple User Connects 1 Single User Connects F Conference R Conference Bridge On/Off Type in the single letter to make your choice. 21.1.1 Change Packet Baud Rate In the PACKET Mode you may change the RF baud rate between 300, 600, 1200 and 2400 baud. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 86 21.1.2 CQ/Beacons In this Mode, you will see CQ and BEACON packets on the channel. (This corresponds to 'MONITOR 1'on the PK-232). This Mode only works on the PK-232 and the KAM. 21.1.3 Everything You can set the TRAFFIC Mode to 'Everything'. It corresponds to 'MONITOR 6' on the PK-232. 21.1.5 Read the Mail You can read the mail on a BBS or other station and get bulletins without connecting to that station yourself. You use this Mode to do so. You will be prompted for the call whose packets you wish to monitor. Remember to enter the call of the station sending the packets, not the call of the one receiving them. (This corresponds to 'MONITOR 0' and 'MBX' callsign). This Mode only works without showing the packet headers on the PK-232. On the other TNCs the headers will also be displayed. You can also use this command to monitor both sides (read the mail) on a QSO on a busy packet channel. You may want to turn the Digipeat Data Display Mode off when reading the mail. 21.1.6 Just My Station (Solo) In this Mode, you will only see messages addressed to you. You will only get messages from people who connect to you. (This corresponds to 'MONITOR 0' or 'MONITOR OFF'). 21.1.7 All Traffic In this Mode you will see all of the data packet traffic on channel. You can use this Mode to check that the TNC is working. (This corresponds to 'MONITOR 4' or 'MONITOR ON'). 21.1.8 Single User Connects This is the normal one-on-one Mode of operation ('USERS 1'). 21.1.9 Multiple User Connects When you are in a Multiple Connect Mode, an asterisk will be shown in the status window next to the word 'PACKET'. Each I/O stream will show up in the Inwindow in a different color. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 87 LAN-LINK supports two multiple connect modes, Individual and Conference. An extract of an actual 'off the air' CRT display (showing received text only) in a multi-user mode is shown below. Note each line of text as received by the TNC is prefixed (by the PK-232) with the I/O channel number and callsign of the station its connected to. 1:4X4IL: *** CONNECTED to 4X4IL via 4X4IC, 4X6JP 0:4X4IC: joe do u read? 2:4Z4ZB: *** CONNECTED to 4Z4ZB 1:4X4IL: Look for me on PR via 4X6JP 73s and Shalom. 2:4Z4ZB: GE JOE I WILL DIS THEN U CAN GO VIA THE REP....> 1: *** DISCONNECTED: 4X4IL via 4X4IC, 4X6JP 0:4X4IC: UNPROTO CQ 2:4Z4ZB: GO AHEAD BOYS...DE ALON..> 0:4X4IC: 2: *** DISCONNECTED: 4Z4ZB This is the normal Multiconnect Mode as described in the TNC manual. Here you are connected to up to 10 stations and will send different traffic to each of them. Each time you wish to send something to a particular station, you must select the I/O channel the station is connected on before typing the text or sending the file. The stream change character for all TNCs in the VHF multiple connect modes is '|' ($7C). In the KAM, it is '\' on HF and '|' on VHF. They are both on the same key but one is in the shift case. Be careful on HF as the '\' shows up in file directories and confuses the computer. THESE VALUES ARE HARD CODED INTO LAN-LINK. IF YOU USE SOMETHING ELSE, THE COLOR AND OTHER MULTIPLE CONNECT FEATURES WILL NOT WORK CORRECTLY. You select the I/O channel using the Alt-N key and moving the cursor to the desired stream, or by typing the '|' character followed by (in the TNC) the channel letter/num- ber. For example to do it manually, if you are connected to G8BTB on I/O channel 0 and to G3ZCZ on I/O channel 1, then to talk to G8BTB you would type '|0' before any text, and similarly to send something to G3ZCZ you would type a '|1' before the text you're going to send me. If you are not using a PK-232, read the TNC manual to determine if the I/O streams are identified by numbers or by letters. The TNC2 standard configuration uses letters (|A etc.). Use the Alt-N key and move the cursor up and down to select the I/O channel automatically. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 88 21.1.10 Conference In the Conference Mode on the other hand, everything that you type at the keyboard is automatically transmitted to each station that you are connected with. Thus if you are linked to two stations each line will be packeted twice by the TNC. You don't have to worry about sending the wrong thing to the wrong person, as they will all get the stuff. You enter this Mode by selecting the 'F' option in the Terminal Menu. You terminate this Mode by selecting the '1' option. You connect in the usual manner using Alt-C or the Connect Option in the Call Menu. You MUST WAIT FOR A CONNECTION TO BE ESTABLISHED OR TIME OUT before attempting to connect to the next station. If you do not, you will get an error message back from the TNC. In the Conference Mode, as the same text is transmitted on all I/O channels, the throughput will be reduced. Slow down your typing speed or use short packets. Should you check the link status or call monitored list, you may not be able to get back into the Converse Mode if you have too many packets outstanding. If that happens, wait a while and then try to set the Converse Mode with Function Key 10 (F10). You may have to try it a few times, depending on how good your links are. DON'T TRY TO SEND A FILE IN THE CONFERENCE MODE, IT IS NOT DESIGNED FOR IT. KEEP THE PACKETS SHORT. BE ALSO WARNED THAT IF YOU USE THE CONFERENCE (BRIDGE) MODE ON BAD LINKS (SUCH AS CROWDED HF CHANNELS AND OTHERS WITH LOTS OF RETRIES), THE KEYBOARD MAY SEEM TO LOCK UP, WHILE LAN-LINK WAITS FOR SPACE IN THE TNC BUFFER TO OUTPUT THE TEXT. The Conference Mode will only work in the PK-232 if DCDCONN is set to ON. So if you are using a PK-232, LAN-LINK will do it for you when you enter the Conference Terminal Mode in case you forgot or/and haven't set the LAN-LINK.SYS file to include the line 'DCD ON'. At the same time set LAN-LINK.SYS default states to show the calls of other stations on each incoming line in the Multiconnect modes (read the TNC manual on how to do this). The Conference Mode will only work in the TNC2 if DCDCONN is jumpered so that Pin 8 of the RS-232 Interface changes state when you connect to someone else. If you get error messages and see the characters '|J' on your screen, then the jumper probably isn't set. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 89 The Conference Mode does not work on the TNC1. In the Conference Mode, if any one of the stations disconnects, the TNC will return to the Command Mode, and you must use Function Key 10 (F10) to return to the Converse Mode before you type another character of text. 21.1.11 Conference Bridge On/Off This option toggles the Conference Bridge on and off. In the Bridge Multiconnect Mode you are acting as a central switch. You can link together up to 10 stations in one multiway connection. In this Mode any packets arriving on any stream are echoed to all other streams that you have 'connects' on except the one that they came in on. Anything you type will be sent to all connected streams. In this manner, all stations will not see their own text echoed back. Each line of text output by LAN-LINK in this Mode will contain the callsign of the station originating the packet. Your packets will contain your call as entered in line 1 of the LAN-LINK.SYS file. Thus for example, if your call was KB8RP/4X and normally shows up in the packet header as KB8RP here it will show in the data as KB8RP/4X. Just remember that the Bridge puts out a lot of packets, so do multiway connects on a quiet frequency. You must be in the Conference Mode to turn the bridge on, and any disconnect will take the bridge down. Should that happen, toggle it on again. A bridge will be shown in the status window whenever the Conference Bridge is up. 21.2 AMTOR Terminal Menu In the AMTOR Communications Mode, you are presented with the following choices. C Force Break [ACHG] F Start Mode B [FEC] L Force LETTERS case M Read the Mail [ALISTEN] O Override ROBOT/Mailbox S Standby Receive [ARQ] R Set ROBOT/Mailbox W CW Identification Type in the single letter to make your choice. 21.2.1 Force Break [ACHG] This option forces a changeover or 'break in'. If for any LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 90 reason you want to interrupt the other station you send a 'BREAK' signal in software this way. 21.2.2 Start Mode B [FEC] This option places the terminal into the FEC Transmit Mode. This puts you on the air, anything you type will be transmitted. Function Key 10 (F10) does the same thing. 21.2.3 Force LETTERS case This option lets you force the PK-232 receiver to the letters case if for some reason you appear to be in the numbers case. It will return you to the Converse Mode. 21.2.4 Read the Mail [ALISTEN] This option lets you read the Mail on a QSO. Unfortunately, when you tune in a chirping AMTOR QSO in the ARQ or Standby Mode you won't get any copy on the QSO in progress. You can however read the mail on one by entering the ALISTEN Mode. 21.2.5 Override ROBOT/Mailbox This option lets you temporarily override the ROBOT BEACON and chat to a station that has linked to the ROBOT. Use it after the message in LAN-LINK.TXT has been sent, namely when the other station is sending a message to you. 21.2.6 Standby Receive [ARQ] This option returns you to the ARQ Standby Mode. You must be in this Mode to receive signals from another station who is calling you. When you tune for CQ calls, they sound somewhat like fast RTTY with a ringing sound similar to the connect alarm used by LAN-LINK (but at a faster ringing rate). 21.2.7 Set ROBOT/Mailbox This option lets you turn on the Mailbox during a regular AMTOR QSO so that the other station can leave a message or download a file remotely. You must only use it when the other station is sending text. 21.2.8 CW Identification This option is used to send a CW identification. The CWID is sent in the FEC Mode. The identification consists of the sequence 'DE <your callsign>' where your call sign is that entered into the PK- LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 91 232 as 'MYCALL'. You use this feature if your license requires you to identify in Morse code as well as in the operating mode. 21.2.9 Set ROBOT Infinite Delay You use this option to prevent the Robot from ever transmitting when not linked. In the normal manner, the Robot counts down the CQ delay parameter, and, when it gets to 0 puts a CQ call on the air. If the Infinite Delay is set, the CQ call will be inhibited. This option thus puts the Robot into an indefinite wait mode where it thinks it has sent out a CQ call and is waiting for a reply. You would use this Mode if you want to set up a MailBox on a known frequency for some group or organization. 21.3 Baudot Terminal Menu In the Baudot Communications Mode, you are presented with the following choices. B Set Baud Rate F Select Shift N NAVY MARS Message Protocol U USOS Off S SELCAL On/Off W CW Identification Type in the single letter to make your choice. 21.3.1 Set Baud Rate This feature allows you to set a desired communications baud rate directly. You will be prompted to enter the desired rate. Use this command to avoid having to shift through too many intermediate states, if for example, you want to make a direct change from 45 to 100 baud. 21.3.2 Select Shift This feature lets you select Wide (850 Hz) or narrow (170 Hz) shift directly. The PK-232 will copy 170 Hz signals using its internal 200 Hz circuitry. If you have a KAM, you may also select the Commercial Shift (425 Hz). The shift is displayed in the status window at the top of the screen. It is shown as 'W', 'N' or 'C' for wide, narrow or commercial respectively. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 92 21.3.3 NAVY MARS Message Protocol The Navy Mars option toggles the Navy MARS Mode on and off. This feature is only present on the PK-232. When active, the feature provides the following protocol. 21.3.3.1 Any Carriage Return or Enter (CR) from the keyboard is sent as CR, CR. (two sequential CR characters. 21.3.3.2 In a file transmission lines are terminated by a CR,CR,LF (Line Feed) sequence. 21.3.3.3 In a file transmission, blank lines are sent as a LF (without a CR). 21.3.3.4 In a file transmission, a plus sign '+' in the file is replaced by a sequence of 12 "letters" characters. There can be more than one + sign on a line. 21.3.3.5 In a file transmission, the sequence 'NNNN' is transmitted followed by a sequence of 12 "letters" characters. There can only be one 'NNNN' sequence on a line. When the NAVY MARS feature is active a [N] will be displayed in the status window. 21.3.4 USOS On/Off This option toggles the Unshift on space (USOS) feature on and off. When the USOS is on, the TNC reverts to the letters shift each time a 'space' character is received. It helps when displaying noisy copy. If USOS is active, 'USOS' will be shown in the status window at the top of the screen. 21.3.5 SELCAL On/Off This command key toggles the SELCAL feature on and off. When the SELCAL is activated, as shown in the status window, the incoming text from the TNC is scanned. When either the letters "ZCZC" or 'your callsign' (as entered in line 1 of the LAN-LINK.SYS file) is received the "capture-to-disk" is turned on. All subsequent text will be stored in the LAN- LINK.RUN file until the letters "NNNN" are received. At that time the "capture-to-disk" is turned off. You may use this feature when monitoring commercial RTTY broadcasts to record news and other information, or when LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 93 calling CQ to start recording all incoming text and keep the QSO on disk. You may use Function Key 1 (F1) to turn the capture to disk permanently on to override the automatic turnoff if you wish. 21.3.6 CW Identification This option is used to send a CW identification. You use this if your license requires you to identify in Morse Code as well as in the operating mode. The identification consists of the sequence 'DE <your callsign>' where your call sign is that entered into the PK- 232 as 'MYCALL'. 21.4 ASCII Terminal Menu In the ASCII Communications Mode, you are presented with the following choices. B Set Baud Rate F Select Shift S SELCAL set/reset W CW Identification Type in the single letter to make your choice. 21.4.1 Set Baud Rate This feature allows you to set a desired communications baud rate directly. You will be prompted to enter the desired rate. Use this command to avoid having to shift through too many intermediate states, if for example, you want to make a direct change from 110 to 1200 baud. 21.4.2 Select Shift This feature lets you select Wide (850 Hz) or narrow (170 Hz) shift directly. The PK-232 will copy 170 Hz signals using its internal 200 Hz circuitry. If you have a KAM, you may also select the Commercial Shift (425 Hz). The shift is displayed in the status window at the top of the screen. It is shown as 'W', 'N' or 'C' for wide, narrow or commercial respectively. 21.4.3 SELCAL On/Off This command key toggles the SELCAL feature on and off. When the SELCAL is activated, as shown in the status window, LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 94 the incoming text from the TNC is scanned. When either the letters "ZCZC" or 'your callsign' (as entered in line 1 of the LAN-LINK.SYS file) is received the capture-to-disk is turned on. All subsequent text will be stored in the LAN- LINK.RUN disk file until the letters "NNNN" are received. At that time the capture-to-disk is turned off. You may use Function Key 1 (F1) to turn the capture to disk permanently on to override the automatic turnoff if you wish. 21.4.4 CW Identification This option is used to send a CW identification. You use this if your license requires you to identify in Morse code as well as in the operating mode. The identification consists of the sequence 'DE <your callsign>' where your call sign is that entered into the PK- 232 as 'MYCALL'. 21.5 CW Menu In the CW Communications Mode, you are presented with the following choices. L Lock to Receive Signal S Set Morse Speed U Unlock Morse Speed Type in the single letter to make your choice. 21.5.1 Lock to Receive Signal This option locks the PK-232 to the speed of the incoming CW signal. 21.5.2 Set Morse Speed This option lets you set the CW speed. 21.5.3 Unlock Morse Speed This option unlocks the PK-232 from the incoming CW signal. It performs the same task as the Alt-D option keys. It is used to speed up capture of a new signal or to break the lock when the PK-232 appears to have locked up at the wrong speed. 22.0 eXit to DOS When you exit the program and return to DOS, if the Shut down LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 95 (QRT) flag is set to 0, the TNC is put into the VHF default mode in which it rejects calls from any other stations. (Read about the 'CFROM' command in the TNC manual). You can thus, if you wish, leave it powered, and if you also leave the VHF radio powered up, you will be active as a digipeater, but at the same time anyone trying to connect with you will receive a busy sig- nal. The MBX command (Reading the Mail) is also cleared at this time. If you want to leave the TNC set up to accept messages when LAN- LINK is not active, customize the shut down state as described in the Section 18.23. 23.0 Hot Keys LAN-LINK also contains a number of "Hot" keys to allow you to perform common operations with a minimum of key strokes. The keys perform related but slightly different tasks in each communications mode. A list of those available is shown in Table 23. Should you require any more hot keys, I suggest you use an external program with a Keyboard Macro capability such as Borland's Superkey. Consider the action of each key in detail. 23.1 Alt-A - Alert Call (Packet) and AMTOR ARQ call/talk In the Packet Communications Mode, this key combination performs the same task as the Alert Call option in the Call Menu. In the AMTOR Communications Mode, this key combination performs the same task as the AMTOR ARQ call/talk option in the Call menu. 23.2 Alt-B - Send Break/AMTOR Changeover In the Packet Communications Mode, activating this key combination sends a 'BREAK' signal to the TNC. Use this key combination to get out of the TNC's transparent mode. In the AMTOR Communications Mode, use this key combination to force a changeover. You can type text into the outgoing buffer and then force a changeover without losing that text. 23.3 Alt-C - Call/Connect to This key combination performs the same task as the Call option in the Call Menu. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 96 Table 23 Summary of Hot Keys ____________________________________________________________________ Hot Key Communications Mode _______________________________________________________________ Packet AMTOR BAUDOT/ASCII CW ____________________________________________________________________ A Set ALERT Call ARQ Call/Talk ------ ------ ____________________________________________________________________ B Send 'Break' Force Changeover ------ ------ to TNC ____________________________________________________________________ C Connect ARQ Call Call Call ____________________________________________________________________ D Disconnect Toggle Receive Receive Disengage Modes Mode Speed Lock ____________________________________________________________________ E Enter Call Enter Call and Enter Call Enter Call Selcal ____________________________________________________________________ F Flush TNC Buffer (all communications modes) ____________________________________________________________________ H Display Help Screen ____________________________________________________________________ J Jump to DOS (all communications modes) ____________________________________________________________________ K Jump to DOS quick return (all communications modes) ____________________________________________________________________ L Edit Log Entry (all communications modes) ____________________________________________________________________ M Scan Message (all communications modes) ____________________________________________________________________ N Next I/O Stream ____________________________________________________________________ O Turn Robot ON Turn Robot ON ------ ------ ____________________________________________________________________ P Turn Printer ON/OFF (all communications modes) ____________________________________________________________________ Q call QRZ call QRZ in FEC call QRZ call QRZ ____________________________________________________________________ R Retry Connect Retry last Call (entered). (not ZAP) ____________________________________________________________________ S Scan Logbook (all communications modes) ____________________________________________________________________ X Exit to DOS (all communications modes) ____________________________________________________________________ Y Zap PacketCluster ____________________________________________________________________ Z Zap BBS Drop Link after Receive mode after sending contents sending contents of buffer of buffer ____________________________________________________________________ LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 97 23.4 Alt-D - Disconnect or Receive This key combination performs the same task as Function Key 8 (F8) EXCEPT in MORSE and AMTOR. In Morse this key disengages the receive speed lock in the PK-232 to unlock the PK-232 from the last signal copied. It lets you lock onto another signal faster. In AMTOR this key toggles the receive mode between ARQ and FEC signals (Qso's in progress and Cq calls). 23.5 Alt-E - Enter Call This key combination performs the same task as the Enter Call option in the Call Menu. 23.6 Alt-F - Flush TNC Buffer This key combination performs the same task as the Flush TNC Outgoing buffer option in the TNC Menu. 23.7 Alt-J - Jump to DOS This key combination lets you "Jump to a DOS Shell". It performs the same function as the 'J' option in the Main Menu. 23.8 Alt-K - Jump to DOS, Quick Return This key combination lets you "Jump to a DOS Shell". it performs the same function as the 'J' option in the Main Menu. When the command is executed, control is returned to LAN-LINK without the 'type exit to quit the shell sequence'. 23.9 Alt-L - Edit Log This key combination performs the same task as the Edit option in the Log Menu. 23.10 Alt-M - Message Scan This key combination performs the same task as the Message Scan choice in the Message Menu. 23.11 Alt-N - Next Stream In the Packet Communications Mode, if you are using the multiple connect capability of LAN-LINK, this key combina- tion prompts you to change I/O streams, and display the state of the I/O streams showing which ones were last used to send or receive something. To change I/O streams, move LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 98 the cursor to the desired stream then push the 'Enter' Key. The calls in the Next Stream window update when stations connect and disconnect. In the event of the window not being correct, you may manually enter or delete calls using the 'Insert' Key to enter a call, and the 'Delete' Key to remove a call. The data about the streams will be shown in the same colors as the multistream text colors. 23.12 Alt-O - Turn Robot On This key combination performs the same function as the Set ROBOT option in the AMTOR Terminal Menu. The hot key combi- nation however, is active in both the Packet and AMTOR communications modes. This function key also puts the Packet and AMTOR Contest operation into automatic. 23.13 Alt-P - Turn Printer ON/OFF This key combination performs the same function as the toggle printer on/off option in the Parameter Menu. 23.14 Alt-Q - Call QRZ This key combination transmits the sequence 'QRZ QRZ QRZ DE YOURCALL' and turns the transceiver back to receive. In AMTOR, it sends the sequence in FEC and adds the SELCAL. 23.15 Alt-R - Retry Call/Connect This key combination performs the same task as the Retry choice in the Call Menu. 23.16 Alt-S - Scan Log This key combination performs the same function as the Scan option in the LOG Menu. 23.17 Alt-X - Exit to DOS This key combination performs the same task as the Exit to Dos choice in the Main Menu. It exits the program and returns you to DOS. 23.18 Alt-Y - Zap PacketCluster This key combination performs the same task as the Packet- Cluster choice in the Call Menu. It connects you to the PacketCluster and issues a 'SHOW/DX' instruction when con- LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 99 nected. 23.19 Alt-Z - Zap BBS This key combination performs the same task as the Zap BBS choice in the Call Menu. 23.20 Alt-= - Toggle Miscellaneous Flag This key combination performs the same function as the + option in the parameters menu. 23.21 End - > +? [Over] In the Packet Communications Mode this command sends your callsign followed by the > and Line feed characters. You may use this to signal 'OVER' in a packet contact. In the AMTOR Communications Mode this command sends the '+?' sequence of characters which is the software 'OVER' signal. In the MORSE and RTTY (Baudot and ASCII) communications modes, this command lets you transmit the 'KN' sequence and returns you to the Receive Mode. For example if you are 4X6AA and you are working G3ZCZ then you would use Function Key 3 (F3) to transmit the sequence 'G3ZCZ de 4X6AA' and this key to send 'KN' and revert to receive. You use this at the END of a transmission in any mode except Packet. If you have typed something into the 'type ahead buffer' then press this key, the contents of the buffer will be transmitted followed by the turnover command. 23.22 PgUp - Scrollback (Scrolls back incoming text) This key lets you repeat the display of up to 255 lines of incoming text which has scrolled out of the incoming window. You may print it or capture it to disk during the repeat. A small menu displays your options when showing the scroll back information. You may move the menu window up and down with the left and right arrow keys. Use the 'ESC' key to terminate the Scrollback Mode. You can save the contents scrollback buffer displayed on the screen by turning the "Capture-to-Disk' on, and then writing text to the window. Anything written will be captured. If the Capture-to-disk is ON before or during scrollback, you will get two copies of the text in the file. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 100 23.23 The Home Key The Home Key will clear the window screen that the cursor happens to be in at the time that the key was depressed, and will then position the cursor at the top left hand corner of that window. 23.24 The Down Arrow Key The Down Arrow Key toggles the Normal/Reverse Sideband command in all PK-232 communications modes except MORSE. The sideband is depicted in the status window by the Up and Down arrows. If the Down Arrow is showing, you are set for Lower Sideband (LSB) which is the one normally used. If you have reversed the sidebands a flashing Up Arrow will be displayed. If you set your transceiver to LSB you will be set correctly for all modes. For CW operation you may set your rig to the CW position and ignore the sideband setting. If you use FSK just set it so that it works for you. 23.25 Shift/Baudrate Control Keys The following keys are used to control the Shift (Wide or narrow) and the Radio link Baudrate in the BAUDOT and ASCII communications modes. In the BAUDOT and ASCII communica- tions modes all baud rates supported by the PK-232 may be selected. 23.25.1 RIGHT ARROW speeds up the baud rate. 23.25.2 LEFT ARROW slows down the baud rate. 23.25.3 UP ARROW toggles the shift from Wide (850 Hz) to Narrow (170 Hz) and back. 23.25.4 DELETE toggles the USOS command (RTTY only). In the CW communications mode, the left and right arrows change the CW speed by 1 wpm. The state of each of the above commands are displayed in the status window at the top of the screen. If USOS is active, 'USOS' will be shown. The shift is shown as 'W' or 'N' for wide or narrow respectively. 23.26 Control-Z (^Z) This key combination is used in the Packet Communication Mode to signal the end of a file or message, when loading LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 101 messages into another LAN-LINK system or into a BBS. In the AMTOR Communications Mode, it is automatically translated into the sequence ' :EOF: +? ' which can be used to termi- nate a message being stored in another LAN-LINK AMTOR mail- box. 24.0 LAN-LINK Disk Files The following disk files are associated with the program. LAN-LINK.COM LAN-LINK.SYS *.RUN LAN-LINK.LOG LAN-LINK.DIR CONFIG.SYS *.MBX *.BBS LAN-LINK.001 .. LAN-LINK.010 QBU-RX.BAT QBU-TX.BAT LAN-LINK.QTA Consider each of them in turn. 24.1 LAN-LINK.EXE This is the program. You activate it from DOS by typing the word LAN-LINK followed by ENTER in the normal manner of invoking DOS commands. 24.2 LAN-LINK.SYS This file contains the configuration information for both the program and the TNC. YOU MUST EDIT IT before you run the program on the air the first time. Use the customization options in the parameters menu to make the changes. The contents of first few lines of the default file together with an item number are shown below. 1. Callsign 2. Selcal 3. CQ Text 4. Band 5. Power 6. CQ Delay (seconds) 7. CQ Delay (minutes) 8. :QSP: Message Relay Flag 9. PC Serial Communications Port Number 10. TNC Type 11. PC to TNC Baud Rate LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 102 12. VHF Log Book File 13. HF Log Book File 14. Capture-to-Disk File name (spare/not used in 1.58) 15. Path Directory File name 16. Brag Tape File name 17. BBS Snatch Mail Trigger Word 18. QTC Snatch Flag 19. BBS Snatch Flag 20. Shut Down Mode 21. PC to TNC Data Bits 22. PC to TNC Parity Bits 23. PC to TNC Stop Bits 24. DCD Flag 25. QBM Download Subdirectory 26. BBS Read Request Command 27. Local BBS Callsign 28. SAREX Callsign 29. SAREX Capture to Disk File name 30. PacketCluster Call 31. Digipeat Detect Flag 32. Node Drop Link Flag 33. Sound Flag 34. Display Computer Generated Commands Flag 35. Digipeat PK-232 Date/timestamp in Call Sequence Flag 36. Keyboard Character Beep value. 37. :QBU: Receiving Station Batch file (QBU-RX.BAT) 38. :QBU: Originating Station Batch file (QBU-TX.BAT) 39. Capture-to-disk Flag 40. Beacon Control/LAN-LINK handshake Flag 41. Spare 42. Start of Scan Words (MUST HAVE AT LEAST ONE) 43. * end of Scan Words 44. Start of Common Calls (MUST HAVE AT LEAST ONE) 45. * end of Common Calls 46. Default users 47. Start of Custom Colors 48. Remaining TNC start up Commands. The contents of each line are described in the section of the Parameters menu which deals with customizing them. The remaining lines contain commands to the TNC. For further information about them refer to the TNC manual. LAN-LINK assumes different defaults in some instances to those set in the TNC. The SYS file contains only those that are differ- ent to the TNC default reset state. NOTE: If you are not using a TNC1 you MUST set the HEADERLN parameter to ON. The packet headers and the text of the packets must show up on your screen on separate lines. You must also have the "Echo as Sent" feature set ON ('EAS ON' for PK-232 and 'XM' ON ' for the KAM). LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 103 24.3 *.RUN These files contain incoming data from the TNC recorded while the 'capture to disk' function was active. LAN-LINK names them as YYMMDD.RUN automatically (YY = Year, MM = Month, DD = Date, i.e 900903.RUN is a file for 3 Sept 1990). 24.4 *.DBF (HF.DBF and VHF.DBF) These file contain the log entries. They are Dbase 3 and 4 compatible. The format of the logbook file is the same as that used by the LOGBOOK package of the PC-HAM software package, with more space for comments. 24.5 LAN-LINK.DIR This is the directory file as described in Section 6.1.2. You use it to store connect, NET/ROM, TheLink, KA-Node or digipeat paths as well as name/callsign relationships. Examples are Joe G3ZCZ Alon 4Z4ZB V 4X6AA Milt 4X6AA LR 4X6LR hf-il 4x4hf v 4z4zb 4x4il hf-rj 4x4hf v 4z4zb 4z4rj K1HTV ELK v WB4APR-5! SNJ3! NNJ! WMA! SCCT! K1HTV w9tnn-2 jrw !% w3eax-7 !& w9tnn-2 You create this file with your word processor in its non- document mode. You must leave AT LEAST one space character between the first (key) word and the connect path. When you type in the key word, the program does not care about upper or lower case. You may also use the 'reMember Path' option in the Call Menu to make entries in this file. If you already have a YAPP.DIR or a PK232COM.DIR file just rename it to LAN-LINK.DIR and add any NET/ROM and/or KA-Node paths. NOTE: All path entries in LAN-LINK.DIR must be on a single 80 column line. 24.6 CONFIG.SYS You must have a CONFIG.SYS file on the boot disk if you are going to use the disk logging features. This file must contain the line LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 104 FILES = 20 See the DOS manual for more information about the CONFIG.SYS file. 24.7 *.MBX These are the files associated with the stations you have designated as LAN store and forward mailboxes. Other sta- tions can only :QRU: with you if you have a 'theircall.MBX' file on your disk. Thus if for example you want to use 4Z4ZB as a store and forward mailbox, you will have to create an ASCII file called 4Z4ZB.MBX using Edit Menu, or the non-document mode of your word processor. In this file you will put a list of the call signs of the stations 4Z4ZB can connect to reliably. If for example you want 4Z4ZB to be able to store messages from you to 4X6AA, 4X6LR, G3ZCZ, ON8IK, F0WN,and G8BTB, you would put those call signs in the file, one call on a line as follows. 4X6AA 4X6LR G3ZCZ ON8IK F0WN G8BTB When the QRU function is invoked either by you manually or by 4Z4ZB connecting to you and sending you the command :QRU:, any message files present on your system addressed to any of those stations (E.G. G3ZCZ.OUT and ON8IK.OUT) will be transferred from you to 4Z4ZB just as if you had tried to :QSP: the messages manually or as if G3ZCZ or ON8IK had connected directly to you. The file names on your system will be changed to *.OLD. You must create one file for each designated store and forward station, ie. 4Z4ZB.MBX, G3ZCZ.MBX etc. 24.8 *.BBS These are BBS AUTO-Upload Command files. Each file is named for the callsign of the BBS that you wish to access. It must have exactly the name as the callsign of the BBS. Thus if the BBS is W9TNN-1 the name of the file must be W9TNN-1.BBS, or if the BBS is 4Z4ZB then the file must be called 4Z4ZB.BBS. The file must be an ASCII file. That means the word processor must be used in the non- document mode to create it. This file contains the command sequence that you would have LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 105 typed at the keyboard if you were accessing the BBS manually. The ONE difference is that the text of a message you are uploading with the S command must be followed by the character string :EOF: (on a separate line) as illustrated by the example below. The contents of A TYPICAL *.BBS file is shown below as an example. k 1234 d \net\lan-link.doc s g8btb Test Message This is a test message. :EOF: sp G3ZCZ @ N4QQ Greetings The text of this message is greetings from LAN-LINK. /ex lm r 567 r 593 24.9 LAN-LINK.001 - LAN-LINK.010 These are 10 different ASCII files with fixed names. They can be transmitted using the Alternate function keys. Their contents can be viewed using the Shift function keys. In all cases the function key to use for a particular file corresponds to the number in the file suffix. For example, use Alt/Shift Function Key 3 (Alt-F3) to transmit/view file LAN-LINK.003. You may also use the Edit Menu to edit/create the files. In case you forget what you put in each of the files, LAN- LINK allows you to take a peek into all of them at the same time. Use Control Function key 1 (Control-F1) to look at the first line of all the LAN-LINK.001 - LAN-LINK.010 files and the Brag Tape. 24.10 QBU-RX.BAT This is the command or batch file used in the :QBU: origi- nating station. 24.11 QBU-TX.BAT This is the command or batch file used in the :QBU: receiv- ing station. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 106 24.12 LAN-LINK.QTA You can leave a message on your system for someone else in a file named CALLSIGN.OUT. When the station with that callsign connects to you, the message will be sent, and the filename will be changed from CALLSIGN.OUT to CALLSIGN.OLD. This is fine as long as the path between the stations good. If the path is marginal, it is possible that your station will transmit the message and change the filename, but the link will drop out before the message is received at the other station. If the other station does not connect to you and :QSM:, the message may get lost. If this situation occurs, you can tell LAN-LINK that there is a bad path between you and that station, and not to change the file names without an explicit :QTA: instruction from that other station. You do this by putting the call of the station(s) having a bad path in an ASCII file called LAN-LINK.QTA. Put one call on each line in the form N9BE G8BTB You must use the root call of the station without an SSID. That means, if the station is N9BE-4, just put N9BE in the file. 25.0 Mailbox features This section describes the mail box and message handling features built into LAN-LINK. 25.1 Answering Machine LAN-LINK contains an AMTOR (Robot beacon CQ mode only) and PACKET Mode SMART "answering machine" facility. You can leave messages on your disk (in the same directory as the LAN-LINK.* files, if you are using a hard disk), for different stations. When someone connects to you, if you left a message for him, he (or she or even it as the case may be) and only that station will receive it automatically. No one else will normally be able to download that message. 25.2 Mail Beacon (Annunciator) To ensure that people know that you have left a message for them a 'MAIL for' list is loaded into your Packet Beacon and transmitted every 30 minutes (Refer to the BTEXT command in the TNC manual) as ':QTC:' followed by a list of calls. If no mail is pending, or the only message in your system is one addressed to you, the beacon transmissions are inhibited. This conforms to good operating practice on LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 107 crowded channels (at least inhibiting the beacon does). The mail beacon in the AMTOR Mode is transmitted as part of the beacon AUTOCQ message. It is automatically updated when a message is transmitted. If you don't set the beacon (see below) you will not transmit a mail beacon text in your AMTOR CQ message. The Mail beacon text is set up either when you tell the computer to set it up or when you disconnect a packet QSO from another station. In this manner you may update the list while the program is running, for example by using Sidekick or the included Editor, to write a message, or preferably the NOTE feature. Any station using LAN-LINK can be configured to automatically attempt a connect (QTC-Snatch) when seeing their callsign in someone else's LAN-LINK :QTC: beacon mail message list. If for some reason the message got lost (e.g. because the link was marginal), :QSM: will get you a repeat of that message. 25.3 How to leave a message You can use the note feature or type the message as a non- document file on Wordstar, the included Editor, or if you use another word processor, you must leave the message as an ASCII text file. If you use the Note feature, the message will be given a header as if it came in from someone else. if you use a word processor or the included Editor to write the message, you will have to write in a header or show somehow that the message is not 'live'. You may then later time tag a message header on message files created by the word processor. In this way people will realize that it is an automatic message by seeing the header. On the other hand, you may wish to fool people into thinking that you are home. You just name the message file as the callsign of the station to whom you wish the message to be sent at connect time. You must also give it the filetype of 'OUT'. For example a message for G3ZCZ would be stored on the disk as a file named 'G3ZCZ.OUT', and similarly a message to 4X6AA would be stored on disk as '4X6AA.OUT'. Once the message has been sent, an entry to that effect will be made in the LAN-LINK.RUN data capture file. The message LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 108 file will then be renamed and given the file extension '.OLD'. At that time any previously existing mail file with the file extension '.OLD' will be deleted. This stops the addressee receiving the message on successive connects if you can't delete it for some reason (you forget) while at the same time, the message is still available to you in case you need it. You should use a separate utility program if you want the calls in the mail beacon sorted. You may for example wish to sort them alphanumerically or in the order of the date that they were left in your answering machine. Incoming messages triggered by the QTC-Snatch will be left in a message file '<yourcall>.OUT', which can be scanned by using the Alt-M Key combination. If you have non LAN-LINK friends, train them to trigger the QTC-Snatch by simulating a beacon, and prefixing and ending their text with lines containing the '>' as the only character. Better yet, give them a copy of LAN-LINK and tell them to register it. 25.4 Remote Beacon Shutdown I recognize that some stations may abuse the beacon facility of this program. I have thus built into the program a 'remote shutdown' capability. If someone running LAN-LINK has their beacon timer set too often, connect to them in the AMTOR or Packet Communications modes, and tell them to :QRT: which will clear their beacon mode and take them off the air for a while at least. In the Packet Communication Mode, the CQ beacon is shut down but the 30 minute mail beacon is not touched. In the AMTOR Communication Mode, the CQ delay time is set to infinity. The LAN-LINK Mailbox will thus still be active in both modes, but will not call CQ on the air. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 109 APPENDIX 1. ANOMALIES and BUGS A1.1 Command/Converse Mode anomalies Since the Program has no way to check the command/converse mode status of the TNC, you may see various Cmd: and error messages from the TNC when using the menus or function key commands. Ignore them for now. If you get an error message, try using the function key again. A1.2 Buffer messages in AMTOR Beacon CQ Mode In the AMTOR Beacon CQ Mode, if the other station drops the link while you are recording the text, BEFORE the callsign has been recognized as a valid callsign, LAN-LINK will time out before logging the QSO and restarting the CQ sequence. If someone else calls in before the time-out has occurred, the text from both stations should be captured to disk, but the log entry may not show both stations, thus the 'LOG' must be compared with the 'RUN' file for QSO purposes. LAN-LINK in the Beacon/Mailbox Mode, normally logs the contact at the end of the line in which it recognized the callsign as a valid callsign. A1.3 FEC +? responses in AMTOR Beacon CQ Mode In the AMTOR Beacon CQ or Mailbox mode, if another station sends a +? in the FEC Mode, the beacon will attempt to send the LAN- LINK.TXT file. The PK-232 however is not in the Converse Mode at that time and will interpret the text of the file as commands. If by some chance, the text corresponds to a valid command the PK-232 will execute it and put the PK-232 in an unknown state and you may not notice that it did. As such I recommend that the first character of each line in the file LAN-LINK.TXT be a non valid command character such as a number or a period (.) or another punctuation sign. A1.4 Using a CGA card with a monochrome monitor If you are using a CGA card with a monochrome monitor, the text you type into the OUTWINDOW will be fainter than the incoming text. This is because of the colors used. If you are using a Hercules compatible card you will not notice any difference. Change the colors using the Parameter Menu. A1.5 The Packet Conference Mode The Conference Mode has been tested on a PK-232, KAM, a SANYO MBC-675 which has a clock speed of 4.7MHz and other PC clones with faster clock speeds. If you have problems with intermittent selection of I/O channels try slowing down your CPU clock. There LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 110 is a software delay loop in the program that is used to allow the TNC time to switch I/O streams after receipt of the stream change command. This delay is there because LAN-LINK tests for a connect on each channel before outputting any text, so that it does not send unaddressed packets on non connected I/O channels. A1.6 Packet Conference Mode disconnects A Packet conference Mode disconnect returns the TNC to the Command Mode, even if you remain connected to one or more other stations. A1.7 Strange Events If the TNC does not use an interrupt driven serial port you may experience problems when using baud rates greater than 1200. The PK-232 DOES NOT LIKE LAN-LINK to use RS-232 baud rates faster than 2400, and sometimes not even that. Use 1200 until YOU have tested and ARE SURE that a faster one will work. IF YOU HAVE ANY STRANGE PROBLEMs AND ARE USING an RS-232 TERMINAL BAUD RATE to the TNC WHICH IS GREATER THAN 1200, set the Terminal Baud Rate to 1200 and see if the problem goes away. Make sure that your configuration is set the way you think it is. Verify it using the 'display deFault' (and the Misc. Flag if necessary) option(s) in the Parameter Menu. You must have at least one common call or scan word in your SYS file, or you will get errors when you update the SYS file. A1.8 *** DISCONNECTED In the Packet Communications Mode, when you are connected to someone and the TNC sends this text string to the computer, LAN- LINK thinks you have been disconnected and resets. This normally only happens when a true disconnect occurs. However, if the text shows up in the middle of a line being sent to you, it WILL HAVE THE SAME EFFECT AND THINK THAT YOU HAVE DISCONNECTED if the DCD- Flag is not set in the SYS file, and the TNC does not use the DCD signal on pin 8 of the RS-232 interface. A1.9 *** CONNECTED In the Packet Communications Mode, when you are monitoring traffic on the LAN someone sends this text string, LAN-LINK thinks you have been connected if the DCD-Flag is not set in the SYS file, and the TNC does not use the DCD signal on pin 8 of the RS-232 interface. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 111 A1.10 Greek Characters and other garbage in the Incoming Screen. If you see Greek characters in the Incoming screen you probably have the wrong parity set in the TNC. first make sure that the RS-232 baud rate is correct. If it is, take the batteries out of it and reset it. If that fails, play with the parity. LAN-LINK sets the serial port as configured in the TNC.SYS file for each TNC. For example, for the PK-232 it is 8 bits, no parity, for the TNC2 it is 7 bits. If you still can't get it to work, set the interface to 7 bits in the configuration file. A1.11 Dumb TNC If the TNC seems to respond to commands but is not sending anything back, you may have one of two problems. You may have a bad RS-232 cable with on wire disconnected. If the computer can operate the TNC in another communications program, try to reset the TNC, take the batteries out, etc. You may also have a not- so-compatible PC. A1.12 Intermittent Lockup Watch out for flow control problems on the cable between the TNC and the PC and between the PC and the Display. Versions of LAN.LINK upto and including 1.55 used software handshaking. Anytime the program received a Control-S (^S) character from the TNC it waited until it subsequently received a Control-Q (^Q). These characters can appear on the LAN in a binary packet, either when binary file transfers are in progress, or in a Inter NET/ROM message. To avoid this lockup, a line containing 'MFILTER 19' was added in your LAN- LINK.SYS file so make the TNC filter the ^S character out and not pass it to LAN.LINK. LAN-LINK 1.56 and onward use hardware handshaking so this problem should not appear. However if the FLOW and XFLOW parameters are not set to OFF in your TNC, LAN- LINK can appear to lockup. Make sure that they are both set OFF in your TNC. APPENDIX 2. Local Area Network Capability VHF Packet radio systems can be considered as part of a Local Area Network (LAN) in which messages can be left by one station in the computer belonging to a second station. At HF the same is true, but the area becomes greater. The basic problem here is that people can only send and receive messages to or from you when you are on-line. To compensate for this, BBS stations were developed which allowed both messages and bulletins to be stored by anyone for later retrieval. LAN-LINK allows you to store messages in your computer so as to use it as an automatic answering machine. By storing the LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 112 messages in a file called by the name of callsign, with the file extension '.OUT', anyone connecting to the computer will get their message without having to request it. LAN-LINK also extends that concept to cover the eventuality of you wanting to take your computer off-line for some reason. You may now load the message into any other computer you can connect to using elements of the Q code adapted to the High Level Network Communications Language (NC/L) proposed in my book Software for Amateur Radio, (Book number 1560) published by TAB Books, Blue Ridge Summit, Pa. 17214 U.S.A. A2.1 LAN Protocol (G3ZCZ Version) The protocol is as follows. When connected to someone who has their LAN-LINK configured as a host, if you want to store a message you send the following instruction to the other station :QSP: <callsign> where <callsign> is the call of the station that the message is for, not the callsign of the host station in whose computer you are storing the message. [Note use only one space character after the :QSP:]. LAN-LINK sends the :QSP: message automatically using QSP option in the Message Menu. For example if you want to store a message for 4Z4ZB in 4X6AA's computer which is configured as a Store and Forward system, you would first connect to 4X6AA and then send the command as :QSP: 4Z4ZB . Better still use :QSP: option in the Lan-Link Menu to automate the sequence. The computer at 4X6AA will respond either with a statement saying that it is ready for you to go ahead, or send a message saying that it can't comply. If it is ready you get a positive reply which will take the form :QRV: <callsign> which if you know the Q code, means " I am ready to accept a message for <callsign>". At this time you may go ahead and send the message. If you type the message at the keyboard, you may use either a control Z (^Z) character or the character sequence :EOF: followed by a carriage return (the ENTER key) to terminate the message. If you have first written the message into a text file you may then send it using the 'Send File' option of the Files Menu and the termination sequence is automatic. Once you have completed the message, the other (host) computer will either reply that the message has been successfully stored or give you an error message. If the message is stored and ready to be sent next time the addressee connects to that computer, you will see the message :QSL: on your screen. If something went wrong, you will get back LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 113 a negative message taking the form :QNO: followed by a number. The number tells you why the operation failed. A2.2 Message Format The message is stored just as if you had left it in your system (except that a header is added identifying the time of reception and the call of the sending station). It will contain a header showing the date and time it was received and your callsign. Should a message for that station already be in the system, yours will be appended to it. In the event the your upload is aborted, the amount of text received before the abort occurred will be stored as the message. When you disconnect from the other LAN-LINK host station, its mail beacon will be updated. Once the message is loaded in the host, it can only be deleted by the operator of the host station. When the addressee connects to the host and receives the message, the file type will change from '.OUT' to '.OLD'. A2.3 File Uploading/Downloading There comes a time when you want to leave a file on your system for someone to download later. You can do this by using NC/L to control the transfer. You must leave the file in a subdirectory defined in the LAN-LINK.SYS FILE called \LAN-LINK\FILES. You must first create it if it does not exist. The station who wants the message just asks for it using :QBM: <filename>, note they do not need to use the full subdirectory path. They must however leave a single space character between :QBM: and the filename. In AMTOR the Mailbox must be turned on for remote functions. For example, you have the latest ARRL DX bulletin, and you want to pass it on. You could pass it to selected people by copying the file to individual messages with the filetype '.OUT', e.g. 4X6AA.OUT, 4Z4ZB.OUT or even G3ZCZ.OUT if you want me to get it, which wastes a lot of disk space. On the other hand you could tell people that the file was available for downloading, either in the CTEXT connect message line which everyone gets when connecting to you by configuring LAN-LINK accordingly, or in individual ('.OUT') messages. If you include the following in your CTEXT message "ARRLDX.015 now available" people will know that to download it, they just have to type the line ':QBM: ARRLDX.015' (one space character between :QBM: and the file name) to get the file. LAN-LINK is not designed as a LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 114 BBS, however, if you copy the contents of the \LAN-LINK\FILES subdirectory into a file called DIR (USE DIR > DIR in DOS), anyone can get a list of the files you have stored in it for downloading by typing :QBM: DIR. Since they do not get the real directory, just what was in it at the time you copied it into the file 'DIR', you may keep "hidden" files in this subdirectory. You may thus leave a file for someone to download, tell them that its there by leaving them a message (which they will get automatically when they connect) and no one else connecting will know that it is there. :QDB: allows you to upload text or ASCII files. If you use the 'lan-linK' option of the Packet Terminal Menu, LAN-LINK will automate the QDB and QBM features for you. A2.4 Path Determination to a Dx station If you want to establish a digipeat path to a station somewhat out of your direct range, you need to know which of the stations that you can connect to can hear that desired DX station. If you could get a call monitored (MH list) from the stations that you connect to, you would be able to see if the station you are connected to has heard your desired DX station. LAN-LINK uses the :QMH: command to request such a list. When LAN-LINK receives a :QMH: command, it drops back to the TNC Command Mode and issues a 'MH' command to the TNC (except to a TNC1 which does not support it). It stores the list received in a temporary buffer, and then returns to the Converse Mode and transmits the list back to the station it is linked to. By judicious use of :QMH: you can determine paths to other stations. Note however, that just because one station can hear another station, it does not mean that it can work it. For example, the station you are connected to may be using a power level of 1 watt or so, while the station 200 miles away that it heard was using 100 watts. Test the path yourself, or/and leave a message asking how reliable the connect path between those two stations is. If you and a small group use a non standard packet channel for inter-group communications, you may also use the :QMH: function to find out who the station you are connected with, has heard recently, when you first sign on the LAN channel. APPENDIX 3 BASIC NC/L DICTIONARY Messages can be transferred into any other LAN-LINK computer you can connect with using elements of the Q code adapted to the High Level Network Communications Language (NC/L) proposed in my book Software for Amateur Radio, (Book number 1560) published by TAB LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 115 Books, Blue Ridge Summit, Pa. 17214 U.S.A. NC/L command words are summarized in the following paragraphs. There is no command word to request your message. To receive your message, you do nothing, you will receive your mail automat- ically when connecting/linking with a LAN-LINK station. You cannot normally read messages addressed to another person. A3.1 :QBM: To download a file, send :QBM: filename.type The filename.type is the file you want. For example :QBM: dir :QBM: help :QBM: LAN-LINK.doc A3.2 :QDB: To upload files to another LAN-LINK system send :QDB: filename.type Files will be uploaded into the same sub-directory as LAN-LINK, and will have a message header inserted at the top of the file to allow the operator to know who uploaded the file. If the operator then wants to make the file available for downloading, he or she can move it to the \LAN-LINK\FILES sub-directory. The '.TYP' following the filename is optional. If you attempt to upload a file which has the same name as one that already exists on the remote system, you will receive an 'error' message. This command is the reverse of :QBM:. A3.3 :QMH: To request a call monitored list ('MH') from the LAN-LINK station that you are connected with, send :QMH: A3.4 :QSM: To request a repeat of a message from a station using LAN-LINK, send :QSM: LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 116 This command will be valid as long as the host station has not deleted the <yourcall>.OLD file on his disk. If the file does not exist, you will receive a :QNO: 2 'error' response. A3.5 :QSP: To leave a message, send :QSP: callsign The callsign is that of the station you wish to leave a message for. A3.6 :QRA: When disconnected, to see what stations (using LAN-LINK 1.53+) are on the LAN, or which LAN-LINK stations have messages pending, send :QRA: All LAN-LINK stations will reply with a mail beacon within a few seconds. A3.7 :QRT: To shut down an AMTOR/Packet mode Mailbox/beacon station which is causing QRM, link or connect to the station and send :QRT: A3.8 :QRU: To upload messages from one LAN-LINK/PK232COM (1.38+) system to your computer, send :QRU: You may only use the QRU function with stations designated as Store and Forward mailboxes. Put a list of stations that you can connect to reliably in your <callsign>.MBX file and send it to other stations in your LAN also using LAN-LINK. They will then be able to dump their mail messages on you and you on them. If they do the same and send you their file, then you will be able to send messages via them for stations that they can work. While QRU gives you the capability to bulk upload messages to another station in your local area, when you take your machine off line, it may also be used to transfer messages between two LANs via well sighted gateway digipeaters. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 117 A3.9 :QNO: ':QNO:' and error message text is a response to a request. A3.10 :QJG: is a response to :QRU: It confirms that the QRU sequence is complete. There are no more messages pending. A3.11 :QRV: callsign is a response to :QSP: callsign. The computer is ready to send the message. End the message with a control Z (^Z) character, or the sequence :EOF: A3.12 :QSL: is a response to a command It confirms receipt of message to that callsign or that a file has been successfully uploaded and stored to disk. It is also used to acknowledge receipt of a ':QRT:' command. A3.14 :QTA: message If LAN-LINK receives :QTA: and a message exists for the connecting station, LAN-LINK will change the filetype from 'OUT' to 'OLD' and respond with a 'QSL'. If a message does not exist, it will respond with a 'QNO'. A3.14 :QTC: message list If LAN-LINK receives :QTC: it will respond with the beacon text showing the mail queue. :QTC: precedes a list of callsigns for whom messages are stored up on a computer. It is used in Packet Beacon transmissions or AMTOR Beacon mode CQ calls. A3.15 :QBU: External Protocols This feature is supplied to allow experimentation with external protocols. PROPOSED EXTENSIONS A3.16 :QYU: YAPP format file upload. A3.17 :QYD: YAPP format file download. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 118 APPENDIX 4. USING OTHER TNCs The PACKET Mode capabilities can be used on all TNCs. There are minor differences in the command dialogue between different TNCs. The dialogue differences affecting the operation of LAN- LINK are built into the program and set when the TNC type is read from the LAN-LINK.SYS file at the program load time. The non packet modes will obviously result in error messages if attempted on a packet mode only TNC. The following notes apply to different TNCs or digital communications controllers. A4.1 TNC2 (MFJ 1270) Version 1.1.2 A4.1.1 Default Commands Rename the LAN-LINK.SYS file as PK232.SYS. Rename the TNC2.SYS file as LAN-LINK.SYS and edit it using your word processor in its non document mode to customize it to your station. A4.1.2 Program differences The following functions DO NOT WORK because the TNC does not support them. All NON PACKET modes. Software controlled HF/VHF switching. Software controlled baudrate switching. CQ/BEACON Packet terminal mode. TNC Transmit Buffer flush. A4.2 TNC1 (HD-4040) The Packet Communications Mode header colors are not supported in LAN-LINK for this TNC. A4.2.1 Default Commands Rename the LAN-LINK.SYS file as PK232.SYS. Rename the TNC1.SYS file as LAN-LINK.SYS and edit it using your word processor in its nondocument mode to customize it to your station. Ignore error messages at start up. A4.2.2 Program differences The following functions DO NOT WORK because the TNC does not support them. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 119 All NON PACKET modes. Day/Time functions. 'MH' and remote :QMH: functions. MAIL Packet Terminal Mode. CQ/BEACON Packet Terminal Mode. TNC Transmit Buffer flush. Conference and multiconnect modes. A4.3 Kaypro KPC-2 The Packet Communications Mode header colors are not supported in LAN-LINK for this TNC. A4.3.1 Default Commands Rename the LAN-LINK.SYS file as PK232.SYS. Rename the KPC.SYS file as LAN-LINK.SYS and edit it using your word processor in its nondocument mode to customize it to your station. A4.3.2 Program differences The following functions DO NOT WORK because the TNC does not support them. All NON PACKET modes. MAIL Packet Terminal Mode. CQ/BEACON Packet Terminal Mode. TNC Transmit Buffer flush. A4.4 KAM LAN-LINK switches colors when it sees the /V or /H following the callsign in the packet header, or in the calls monitored ('MH') list. If you are monitoring both HF and VHF simultaneously, the colors will show you which radio you heard which signal on. If the Mail-Snatch or the QTC-Snatch are triggered, LAN-LINK will change modes and attempt the connect on the correct radio but will not change the band/power information or the logbook to reflect that change in the logbook or in the status window dis- play. A4.4.1 Default Commands Rename the LAN-LINK.SYS file as PK232.SYS. Rename the KAM.SYS file as LAN-LINK.SYS and edit it using your word processor in its nondocument mode to customize it to your station. A4.4.2 Program differences The following functions DO NOT WORK because the TNC does not LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 120 support them. TNC Transmit Buffer flush. The SIGNAL Communications Mode. The NAVTEX Communications Mode. The Alt-D key in the MORSE Communications Mode. The AMSAT-OSCAR Menu does not allow UoSAT option, as the KAM does not have 1200 baud ASCII capability. The BAUDOT NAVY MARS Protocol is also not available. A4.5 PK-232 EPROM Version 30 DEC 1988 and subsequent ones. Turn the 'BBS OFF' if you want the Alert Call, packet communications mode header colors and Digipeat Detect features to work otherwise turn it on. A4.6 MFJ 1278 LAN-LINK assumes that the Radio 1 port is connected to the VHF/UHF packet transceiver, and the Radio 2 port is connected to the HF transceiver with the multi mode communications capability. To transmit CW turn the VOX on. The MFJ1278 suffers from one major deficiency as far as LAN-LINK is concerned. The Echo-As-Sent only works in the AMTOR Communi- cations Mode. That means that you will not see the contents of a file echo in the incoming window as the file is being transmit- ted. A4.6.1 Default Commands Rename the LAN-LINK.SYS file as PK232.SYS. Rename the MFJ1278.SYS file as LAN-LINK.SYS and edit it using your word processor in its nondocument mode to customize it to your station. A4.6.2 Program differences The following functions DO NOT WORK because either the TNC does not support them or does not do so in a consistent manner. TNC Transmit Buffer flush. The SIGNAL Communications Mode. The AMSAT-OSCAR Menu does not allow UoSAT option. The BAUDOT NAVY MARS Protocol is not available. CW Identification. The NAVTEX communications mode. (MFJ1278 allows, but not set in LAN-LINK). LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 121 A4.7 Heath HK-21 K3WGF noticed that his Heath HK-21 TNC didn't seem to have the proper circuitry to support true DCD on pin 8 of the RS232 connector. Even though the pin was labeled DCD it didn't signal properly. Set the DCD function in LAN-LINK to OFF to make the Capture-to-Disk close out normally rather than continue to remain engaged. APPENDIX 5 UPDATES/REVISION HISTORY 1.55 Changed to Turbo Pascal 5.5. Initialize calls, :QDB: long file transfer and Sound display bugs fixed. F3 and F8 turns Robot off. Expanded contest operation. KAM AMTOR Robot drop-link added. KN fixed in CW. RTTY and Navy MARS Baudot File Transfer Bug. 1.56 RTTY and Navy Mars File transfer bug fixed. Command Echo bug fixed. Disconnect Capture-to-Disk bug fixed. Alt-K and Alt-Y added. :QBU: added. J option in parameter menu delet- ed, I and L options added. BBS Bulletin read command custom- izable. Automatic packet/AMTOR contest mode added. Call- signs converted to upper case. CW speed shown in status window, left/right arrows change CW speed by 1 wpm. Sound flag kills ^G bell on incoming text. /EX or /ex as well as :EOF: can now be used in *.bbs file column 1. 'RY's deleted from RTTY CQ call. PC to TNC now uses hardware handshake (^S/^Q deleted). SAREX Orbiter menu/functions changed. SAREX Orbiter Metabeacon interface changed. Logs split to HF and VHF. PacketCluster added. Update changed. 1.57 dBASE compatible logbook files. AutoCQ bug, 1.56 Non KAM vhf PACLEN bug, Packet 'End' key bug and Editor F10 bug fixed, changes in order of colors in SYS file. K option added to Edit menu. ! F and 0 options added in Parameters Menu. PK- 232 Mailbox commands changed at start-up and shut-down. QSM added to LAN-LINK Menu. Com 3/4 addresses/IRQs changed from PS-2 to XT. Capture-to-disk files automatically named each day as YYMMDD.RUN. Quick Menu added. Kam/KPC Shut-down state 4/5 turns PBMON and NDMON off. 1.58 Default users added. Editor stack/ 1.57 lockout bug and other anomalies fixed, X and Y options added to TNC Menu. O, P, Y and Z options added to Files Menu. Pick option added to message Menu. Com port set up changed. Multi-user operations changed. :QTA: Added. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 122 APPENDIX 6 LAN-LINK 1.58 REGISTRATION FORM To: Joe Kasser G3ZCZ, P O BOX 3419, SILVER SPRING, MD 20918. CALL ________________ TODAY'S DATE _____________ NAME ______________________________________________ ADDRESS ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ CITY ___________________________________________ STATE _________ POSTCODE ____________ TELEPHONE ____________ TNC TYPE _________ FIRMWARE REV __________ HOME BBS ___________ DISK SIZE 5.25 _____ 3.5 ____ Other ? _____________ I enclose a check for $35.00. Please register me as a user of LAN-LINK. I am currently using Version ______ which I obtained from _________________________________________. Please send me the latest version of LAN-LINK or if a more recent one does not exist at this time, QSL my registration and add my name to the list to receive a free update when it becomes available. Signature My favorite operating modes are ______________________________. Additional Features I'd like to see in future releases of LAN- LINK. Keep Conference Bridge Up __ YAPP Binary File compatibility __ Expanded Contest Operation __ More AMTOR (explain below) __ NTS capability __ Picture Transfer capability __ Telephone Modem capability __ PacketCluster Menu (Like BBS) __ Kenwood Radio Control Menu __ Printed Manual ($15.00) __ Inhibit Sign On Message (Registered Users only) __ Dumb Terminal (CP-1, ST-5 etc.) Baudot/ASCII RTTY operation __ Others NOTE: some additions come into LAN-LINK as a result of user suggestions, so here's your chance to get some input in. Comments, likes, dislikes, wish list, etc. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 123 APPENDIX 7 LAN-LINK PROBLEM REPORT Name ______________________________________ CALL _______________ Street __________________________________________________________ City _______________________________ State _____ ZIP __________ Tel. ____________________ LAN-LINK version ____ 1. Describe your computer system. Manufacturer ____________________ Model ___________TNC __________ Firmware _____ DOS Version ________________ Clock Frequency _________ MHz. List peripheral equipment and cards installed in your computer. Video Herc/EGA/CGA_____ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ What memory resident programs were installed when the problem occurred? _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ 2. Describe the problem in detail. What were the Misc. flag state-sequence numbers when the problem was happening? 3. Describe the sequence of events or keystrokes that led to the problem. 4. Any other information that may help in locating the problem. Use additional sheets of paper if necessary. ATTACH a copy of your LAN-LINK.SYS file. Mail to: Joe Kasser, P O Box 3419, Silver Spring, MD. 20918. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 124 APPENDIX 8 Other PC Software by Joe Kasser G3ZCZ 8.1 PC-HAM 3.52 BY G3ZCZ LOGBOOK Full blown logging package. With automatic check of logs for awards such as DXCC. Allows you to recall any entry by call sign within seconds. Indexed displays, QSL'ing, Contest mode QSL'ing (prints the lot) and lots more. Although writ- ten in dBASE3 the package contains a compiled version (LOGBOOK.EXE), so you don't need dBASE to run it. The source code is ONLY given to registered users. It can convert your exported LAN-LINK.LOG file to LAN-LINK.DBF to put this package to work. Ideal for DX-peditions or for DX robot users to handle QSLing and log statistics. CONTEST Keeps Dupes in memory, logs QSO's to disk in format which can be processed by the LOGBOOK package. Now compiled in Turbo BASIC, source code is supplied so that you can modify the program to meet your requirements. CQSS Sweepstakes game compiled in Turbo BASIC. Work the ARRL Sweepstakes contest on your computer. You are located just outside Washington DC. A propagation model is built in to the program. This program is REQUIRED training for all sweepstakes operators. Earlier version of the program is described in detail in 'Software for Amateur Radio' by Joe Kasser G3ZCZ, published by TAB Books, Blue Ridge Summit, PA. 17214. WHATSON Predict HF Propagation for given days. Contest mode with printout to whole world at hourly intervals. Needs BASIC. This software AND MORE comprises PC-HAM which is available as Shareware from G3ZCZ. Send a blank formatted disk, SASE, and a QSL card for a copy or save time and money and register as a user for $36.50 (half of $73). Request PC-HAM and specify disk size (3.5 or 5.25 inches). 8.2 STARTREK The Computer Program An ideal task for the beginner to learn a language on is a simulation game which is written around the computer that the beginner has available. For in that case, there is complete LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 125 control of all inputs and outputs, This kind of game in which the player makes decisions based on the information available to him or her available at the time), can be made sufficiently sophisticated and complex so as to make writing it an adequate challenge for anybody. The techniques used in writing a good game are the same that programmers use in professional activities. Writing a good game poses a challenge that allows you to develop good habits and techniques for programming and also allows you to learn a language in an interesting manner. By taking an orderly approach to the game design, complex operations may be clearly understood and converted to computer code with the aid of a language reference manual, irrespective of the language being used. This product teaches the techniques for writing such a game using the STARTREK game as an example, and the BASIC language as the programming language in which to write the code. Registration fees. Single Copy $15.00 10 - 50 Copies $12.00 per registered copy. 50 - 100 Copies $10.00 per registered copy. 100 + Copies $8.00 per registered copy. This is available as Shareware from G3ZCZ. Send a blank formatted disk and an SASE for a copy or save time and money and register as a user by sending a check for the registration fee according the schedule posted above. Request Startrek - The Computer Program and specify disk size (3.5 or 5.25 inches). 8.3 WHATS-UP 0.55 This version of WHATS-UP is a concept demonstration version of an ASCII Telemetry Decoding and display Program for the Fuji-OSCAR 20 and the AMSAT Microsat Spacecraft (OSCARs 16, 17, 18 and 19). It is table driven via the configuration files to allow maximum flexibility. This version does not do binary telemetry decoding. It only decodes the ASCII format. It also contains a few cosmetic display bugs. I expect (but don't promise) to put out Revision 1.00 with more features, (such as automatic spacecraft parameter file switching to match spacecraft, scheduled events, TNC configuration files, etc.) and proper documentation once binary telemetry formats have been standardized and stabilized. WHATS-UP contains the following features: * Supports DOVE and Fuji-OSCAR 20 ASCII format packet telemetry. * Real time and Playback modes. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 126 * Dumb Terminal mode. * Automatic Capture-to-disk of raw telemetry. * Extracts telemetry channel data to a database or spreadsheet readable file for further analysis. * Link quality measurement. * Capability to print the raw telemetry as it is received. * Up to 16 user configurable display pages (screens). You set the position on the page (width of engineering unit field, and number of decimal places) that a parameter is displayed at. * Wild card page (parameter shows up on all pages). * Selectable display of Engineering units or raw byte for each display page. * Display of raw packets (i.e. STATUS) * Color changes if a parameter value changed between successive frames. * Audio and visual alarms if a telemetry value exceeds, falls below or falls outside a preset limit value(s). * Dumb split screen terminal mode (a la LAN-LINK). * Customizable colors, PC to TNC baud rate, data parity and stop bits. * Default spacecraft configuration files. * Time of day clock display (in HH:MM:SS format) If you would like a copy of WHATS-UP and have captured any telemetry to disk, especially daytime or southern hemisphere passes, please put them on the disk. Don't let the data files become too long. I suggest that you rename them every day in the format YYMMDD.SC, such as 900824.D17, 900824.F20, etc. Suggestions for improvements and additions are always welcome. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 127 APPENDIX 9 HOW SHAREWARE WORKS: The Association of Shareware Professionals (ASP) has established standards for its members and for any organization which has "ASP Approved" status. The ASP wants to make sure that the shareware principle works for you. If you are unable to resolve a problem with an ASP member or organization (other than technical support), the ASP may be able to help. Please write to The ASP Ombudsman, P.O. Box 5786, Bellevue, WA 98006, USA. You are encouraged to copy the floppy disk and share it freely with others. You have the luxury of trying out the product at your own pace and in the comfort of your own home or workplace. After you have used the material for a reasonable evaluation period (90 days), you should either discontinue use of the material or register your copy. Your support is important and greatly appreciated. With it, Shareware authors are encouraged to design and distribute new products. Without it, a great deal of high quality, low cost software will cease to be available. Why pay at all? * You receive support from the author. * You receive a CURRENT copy of the program. * Your input and ideas help shape future products. * A sense of pride and ownership in having honestly participated in the Shareware revolution. * You help to keep software prices down by supporting a distribution method which doesn't depend on expensive advertising campaigns. Be aware of the following restrictions, designed to protect the community of Shareware users and to prevent greedy people from taking unfair advantage of the trust, hard work and good will of Shareware authors. 1. No price or consideration may be charged for the material. However, a distribution cost may be charged for the cost of the diskettes, shipping and handling, not to exceed $6. 2. The files and programs on the disks may not be modified or deleted. 3. The material cannot be sold as part of some other more inclusive package. 4. The material cannot be "rented" or "leased" to others. 5. The end user must be told clearly in writing on the outside of the package and in all advertising that the diskette(s) LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 128 are "Shareware." 6. The package must contain a written explanation that the disk is for evaluation purposes, and that an additional "registration fee" is expected by the author, if the material is used beyond an initial evaluation period. 7. In the case of distribution via any telecommunications link, the following must be done: An error checking protocol must be used. The individual files must be combined into, and transferred in a library or archive format. 8. Shareware distribution is permitted only in the United States, Canada, England, and Australia. LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 129 INDEX Accordance, 54 ACHG, 7, 89 Acitivate, 5 Alarm, 3, 25, 31, 44, 79, 90 Alarmwindow, 6, 79 ALFD, 82 ALIST, 7, 83, 84 Alt-A, 4, 8, 51, 54, 95 Alt-B, 8, 95 Alt-C, 8, 16, 22, 88, 95 Alt-D, 8, 18, 43, 66, 84, 94, 97, 120 Alt-E, 4, 8, 22, 51, 52, 54, 97 Alt-F, 4, 8, 26, 51, 52, 54, 97, 105 Alt-J, 8, 97 Alt-K, 8, 97, 121 Alt-L, 8, 70, 97 Alt-M, 8, 68, 97, 108 Alt-N, 8, 87, 97 Alt-O, 8, 18, 19, 61, 70, 98 Alt-P, 8, 98 Alt-Q, 8, 18, 30, 98 Alt-R, 8, 36, 98 Alt-S, 4, 8, 51, 52, 69, 98 Alt-U, 4, 51, 52 Alt-X, 8, 16, 17, 55, 98 Alt-Y, 8, 98, 121 Alt-Z, 4, 8, 38, 51, 52, 99 AMSAT-OSCAR, 5, 13, 28, 58, 59, 61, 120 AMTOR, 2, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 27, 31, 32, 35, 36, 44, 45, 49, 50, 51, 64, 65, 70, 72, 73, 80, 83, 84, 89, 90, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 101, 106, 107, 108, 109, 113, 116, 117, 120, 121, 122 AMTOR-FEC, 20 APPENDIX, 9, 10, 16, 19, 48, 49, 50, 109, 111, 114, 118, 121, 122, 123, 124, 127 ARQ, 3, 7, 8, 25, 31, 32, 84, 89, 90, 95, 96, 97 Arrow, 4, 8, 20, 51, 52, 53, 99, 100 Arrows, 30, 100, 121 ASCII, 2, 5, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 40, 46, 58, 59, 83, 84, 93, 96, 99, 100, 104, 105, 106, 107, 114, 120, 122, 125 Attack, 5, 59 AUTO-Upload, 104 AutoCQ, 21, 107, 121 Automatic, 2, 5, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 22, 25, 26, 29, 37, 45, 50, 60, 64, 70, 71, 82, 83, 93, 94, 98, 107, 111, 112, 121, 124, 125, 126 Automatically, 12, 13, 15, 23, 32, 38, 46, 47, 50, 51, 52, 55, 67, 72, 87, 88, 101, 103, 106, 107, 112, 114, 115, 121 Batteries, 16, 57, 111 Battery, 15, 57 LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 130 Baud, 6, 7, 8, 15, 16, 19, 59, 67, 77, 78, 84, 85, 91, 93, 100, 101, 110, 111, 120, 126 BAUDOT, 2, 7, 8, 11, 12, 14, 20, 21, 59, 82, 83, 84, 91, 96, 99, 100, 120, 121, 122 Baudrate, 8, 20, 100, 118 BBS, 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 13, 16, 20, 28, 30, 31, 36, 37, 38, 39, 42, 44, 45, 55, 56, 60, 63, 64, 70, 71, 72, 76, 82, 83, 86, 96, 99, 101, 102, 104, 105, 111, 114, 120, 121, 122 BBSZapp, 64 Beacon, 5, 7, 9, 12, 13, 14, 21, 25, 31, 37, 38, 43, 50, 51, 58, 59, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 70, 71, 83, 86, 90, 102, 106, 107, 108, 109, 113, 116, 117, 118, 119 Beep, 5, 64, 66, 102 Bell, 46, 59, 121 BIT, 19, 77 Bits, 6, 77, 78, 102, 111, 126 Blink, 25, 60 BottomWindow, 6, 79 Bridge, 7, 13, 22, 85, 88, 89, 122 BTEXT, 67, 106 Buffer, 2, 5, 8, 9, 12, 19, 26, 27, 30, 45, 46, 57, 65, 76, 88, 95, 96, 97, 99, 109, 114, 118, 119, 120 Bug, 20, 121 Bugs, 9, 109, 121, 125 Bulletin, 20, 72, 82, 113, 121 Bulletins, 13, 42, 72, 82, 86, 111 Call, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 13, 14, 16, 18, 21, 22, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 34, 35, 36, 37, 39, 41, 42, 43, 44, 50, 51, 52, 53, 55, 59, 60, 61, 62, 65, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 79, 85, 86, 88, 89, 90, 91, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 102, 103, 104, 106, 108, 110, 112, 113, 114, 115, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124 Calls, 5, 22, 24, 25, 26, 30, 32, 37, 55, 57, 58, 62, 63, 64, 70, 71, 73, 79, 83, 88, 90, 95, 97, 98, 102, 106, 108, 109, 117, 119, 121 Callsign, 2, 5, 7, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 24, 25, 30, 31, 32, 33, 35, 36, 43, 46, 49, 50, 52, 55, 56, 60, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 81, 85, 86, 87, 89, 90, 92, 93, 94, 99, 101, 102, 103, 104, 106, 107, 109, 112, 113, 116, 117, 119 Callsigns, 5, 55, 64, 69, 70, 72, 117 Capture-to-Disk, 3, 5, 18, 20, 23, 42, 43, 47, 61, 64, 65, 71, 81, 92, 94, 99, 102, 121, 126 CFROM, 75, 95 CGA, 9, 109, 123 Character, 12, 16, 24, 25, 27, 30, 35, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 55, 60, 61, 68, 69, 70, 82, 87, 89, 92, 102, 103, 105, 108, 109, 111, 112, 113, 117 Chime, 33, 69 CHIRPCOPY, 7, 14, 26, 83, 84 CMD, 2, 24, 26, 109 CMSG, 18, 62, 63, 65, 76 Color, 6, 7, 14, 22, 78, 79, 80, 81, 86, 87, 126 LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 131 Colors, 6, 13, 15, 17, 64, 78, 81, 98, 102, 109, 118, 119, 120, 121, 126 Column, 52, 103, 121 Command, 4, 5, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 30, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 52, 55, 56, 57, 58, 61, 62, 63, 64, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 79, 82, 86, 89, 91, 92, 93, 95, 97, 99, 100, 102, 104, 105, 106, 109, 110, 112, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 121 Commands, 10, 11, 15, 19, 37, 39, 40, 41, 58, 61, 62, 63, 64, 66, 100, 101, 102, 109, 111, 118, 119, 120, 121 Comments, 1, 39, 51, 52, 55, 103, 122 Common, 5, 23, 64, 73, 95, 102, 110 Conference, 7, 9, 13, 22, 36, 85, 87, 88, 89, 109, 110, 119, 122 CONFIG, 9, 101, 103, 104 Configuration, 2, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 34, 43, 48, 57, 60, 61, 73, 81, 82, 85, 87, 101, 110, 111, 125, 126 Connect, 2, 3, 5, 8, 12, 13, 14, 16, 20, 22, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 38, 44, 45, 46, 50, 51, 57, 58, 59, 60, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 70, 75, 76, 83, 86, 87, 88, 90, 95, 96, 97, 98, 103, 104, 106, 107, 108, 110, 112, 113, 114, 116, 119 Connected, 6, 9, 12, 13, 21, 22, 28, 30, 32, 33, 34, 38, 47, 48, 49, 61, 64, 67, 68, 70, 72, 76, 79, 80, 81, 85, 87, 88, 89, 104, 110, 112, 114, 115, 120 CONOK, 63, 75 Contest, 2, 3, 5, 6, 12, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, 44, 45, 54, 64, 69, 70, 75, 98, 121, 122, 124 Control-F, 105 Control-Q, 111 Control-S, 111 Control-Z, 8, 100 CONVERSE, 2, 9, 11, 26, 27, 48, 50, 58, 68, 88, 89, 90, 109, 114 Copy, 1, 15, 25, 37, 40, 58, 90, 91, 92, 93, 108, 114, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127 CP, 122 CQ, 2, 3, 6, 7, 9, 14, 18, 21, 22, 25, 26, 29, 31, 36, 37, 57, 64, 74, 75, 85, 86, 87, 90, 91, 93, 97, 101, 106, 107, 108, 109, 117, 118, 119, 121 CQTEXT, 74 Ctdsk, 3, 39, 42, 47, 64 CTEXT, 5, 6, 18, 57, 58, 62, 63, 65, 75, 76, 113 Ctrl-Z, 8 Customize, 17, 71, 75, 95, 118, 119, 120 CW, 7, 8, 83, 84, 89, 90, 91, 93, 94, 96, 100, 120, 121 CWID, 90 DBF, 5, 6, 8, 23, 51, 54, 73, 74, 103, 124 DCD, 5, 64, 70, 88, 102, 110, 121 DCD-Flag, 110 Deactivate, 5, 57, 58 Defaults, 13, 15, 19, 57, 102 Digipeat, 5, 13, 21, 33, 36, 64, 66, 72, 86, 102, 103, 114, 120 Digipeated, 31, 66, 67 LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 132 Digipeater, 33, 67, 72, 75, 95 Digipeaters, 33, 116 DIR, 6, 9, 14, 17, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 41, 67, 70, 74, 101, 103, 114, 115 Directories, 5, 64, 73, 87 Directory, 3, 5, 6, 14, 27, 28, 31, 32, 34, 36, 39, 41, 43, 45, 46, 47, 56, 67, 73, 74, 102, 103, 106, 114 DISCONNECTED, 9, 31, 36, 61, 67, 70, 87, 110, 111, 116 Display, 3, 13, 22, 24, 25, 36, 44, 45, 47, 51, 53, 54, 58, 61, 65, 66, 68, 70, 74, 78, 81, 84, 85, 86, 87, 96, 97, 99, 102, 110, 111, 119, 121, 125, 126 Displayed, 16, 20, 21, 22, 27, 31, 42, 52, 55, 60, 64, 66, 69, 74, 82, 86, 91, 92, 93, 99, 100, 126 Displaying, 22, 92 Displays, 17, 19, 20, 22, 36, 37, 47, 55, 65, 81, 83, 99, 124 DOVE, 125 Downlink, 34 Download, 3, 5, 6, 9, 13, 30, 38, 39, 48, 50, 73, 74, 90, 102, 106, 113, 114, 115, 117 Drop-link, 121 DUPLEX, 11, 12 EAS, 102 EAX, 34, 103 Echo, 5, 23, 25, 64, 66, 79, 102, 120, 121 Echo-As-Sent, 120 Edit, 3, 4, 8, 13, 17, 19, 23, 28, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 47, 51, 52, 53, 54, 73, 96, 97, 101, 104, 105, 118, 119, 120, 121 Editor, 13, 19, 23, 40, 41, 61, 107, 121 EGA, 123 End, 4, 8, 12, 13, 18, 24, 30, 35, 39, 40, 41, 42, 44, 51, 52, 53, 61, 68, 69, 70, 71, 99, 100, 102, 109, 117, 121, 127 Enter, 3, 5, 8, 12, 17, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, 32, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 42, 43, 44, 47, 49, 50, 52, 54, 55, 56, 62, 64, 69, 70, 73, 78, 86, 88, 91, 92, 93, 96, 97, 98, 101, 112 EOF, 39, 42, 49, 101, 105, 112, 117, 121 Erase, 3, 45, 46 Error, 11, 16, 19, 30, 48, 68, 79, 88, 109, 112, 115, 116, 117, 118, 128 Errors, 110 Escape, 16, 28, 51, 52 Events, 9, 44, 110, 123, 125 Explicit, 106 Features, 5, 9, 11, 14, 17, 41, 44, 48, 61, 66, 87, 103, 106, 114, 120, 122, 125 FEC, 2, 7, 9, 14, 25, 26, 27, 36, 89, 90, 96, 97, 98, 109 Files, 2, 3, 4, 8, 13, 15, 17, 18, 19, 21, 23, 27, 28, 29, 30, 38, 39, 40, 41, 43, 44, 45, 47, 48, 50, 52, 55, 56, 61, 65, 66, 67, 73, 82, 101, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 112, 113, 114, 115, 121, 125, 126, 127, 128 Filetype, 17, 54, 107, 113, 117 LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 133 Fine, 106 Firmware, 17, 122, 123 Flashing, 20, 21, 22, 31, 36, 61, 65, 69, 81, 100 FSK, 100 Function, 2, 4, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 19, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 36, 37, 42, 43, 47, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 58, 61, 64, 66, 70, 71, 84, 88, 89, 90, 93, 94, 97, 98, 99, 103, 104, 105, 109, 114, 116, 121 Gateway, 116 Greek, 9, 16, 77, 111 Handshake, 16, 66, 102, 121 Header, 6, 13, 31, 37, 42, 56, 60, 70, 79, 89, 107, 113, 115, 118, 119, 120 HEADERLN, 102 Headers, 17, 22, 31, 37, 60, 72, 86, 102 Hercules, 109 HF, 2, 6, 7, 8, 11, 17, 18, 23, 32, 51, 65, 74, 79, 83, 84, 87, 88, 102, 103, 111, 118, 119, 120, 121, 124 Highlight, 53, 54 Highlighted, 51, 52, 54 Indicator, 13, 21, 25, 65, 69 Inhibit, 122 Inhibitor, 37 Intermittent, 9, 109, 111 InWindow, 6, 67, 78, 86 IRQ, 77 IRQs, 121 KA-Node, 34, 103 KA-Nodes, 34 KAM, 1, 10, 11, 17, 18, 26, 58, 59, 70, 73, 77, 84, 86, 87, 91, 93, 102, 109, 119, 120, 121 Kaypro, 10, 119 Kenwood, 122 KM, 38 KN, 70, 99, 121 KPC, 1, 10, 57, 119, 121 Labeled, 121 LAN, 9, 13, 14, 17, 20, 23, 24, 27, 32, 43, 48, 49, 50, 54, 56, 59, 62, 65, 67, 69, 70, 71, 75, 92, 94, 104, 105, 110, 111, 112, 114, 116 LAN-LINK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 43, 44, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 52, 54, 57, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 81, 82, 83, 84, 87, 88, 89, 90, 92, 94, 95, 97, 101, 102, 103, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 126 LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 134 Left, 20, 27, 38, 40, 41, 43, 48, 78, 82, 99, 100, 106, 108, 111, 113, 121 Link, 5, 12, 17, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 30, 32, 33, 34, 43, 48, 49, 54, 62, 64, 65, 67, 69, 70, 75, 84, 88, 89, 92, 94, 96, 100, 102, 105, 106, 107, 109, 111, 116, 126, 128 LM, 38, 39, 105 Lockout, 60, 121 Lockup, 9, 111 Log-to-disk, 64 Logbook, 5, 6, 12, 23, 29, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 64, 65, 73, 74, 96, 103, 119, 121, 124 LogWindow, 6, 78 Mail, 1, 7, 9, 13, 20, 22, 37, 38, 39, 50, 58, 65, 66, 70, 71, 72, 75, 83, 84, 85, 86, 89, 90, 95, 101, 102, 106, 107, 108, 113, 115, 116, 117, 119, 123 Mail-Snatch, 5, 37, 71, 119 Mailbox, 5, 7, 9, 12, 13, 14, 25, 57, 58, 65, 89, 90, 91, 104, 106, 108, 109, 113, 116, 121 MARS, 7, 8, 15, 21, 82, 91, 92, 120, 121 MBX, 9, 50, 86, 95, 101, 104, 116 Menu, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18, 19, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 31, 39, 41, 44, 45, 47, 48, 50, 51, 53, 54, 55, 57, 58, 59, 61, 63, 64, 68, 72, 76, 79, 80, 81, 83, 85, 88, 89, 91, 93, 94, 95, 97, 98, 99, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 109, 110, 112, 114, 120, 121, 122 Menus, 11, 23, 28, 78, 109 Message, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 16, 18, 19, 20, 28, 30, 34, 37, 38, 39, 42, 43, 45, 47, 48, 49, 50, 55, 56, 58, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 74, 76, 78, 88, 90, 91, 92, 96, 97, 100, 101, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 121, 122 Meta, 61, 62, 63, 64 Metabeacon, 62, 63, 121 MFILTER, 111 MFJ, 1, 10, 11, 17, 26, 58, 59, 73, 77, 118, 120 MH, 24, 64, 79, 114, 115, 119 MHWindow, 6, 78 Mode, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 31, 32, 34, 36, 37, 38, 40, 41, 42, 43, 45, 46, 48, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 72, 73, 75, 76, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 114, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 124, 126 Morse, 2, 7, 8, 11, 12, 14, 20, 25, 83, 84, 91, 93, 94, 97, 99, 100, 120 MRPT, 31 Multi-user, 37, 83, 87, 121 MYCALL, 91, 93, 94 NAVTEX, 7, 20, 83, 85, 120 LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 135 NDMON, 121 NET, 14, 32, 33, 34, 36, 67, 103, 105, 111 NNNN, 92, 94 NODE, 5, 11, 14, 16, 32, 33, 34, 64, 67, 102 NTS, 83, 122 OutWindow, 6, 45, 78, 109 Packet, 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31, 32, 34, 35, 36, 38, 43, 44, 45, 46, 50, 51, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 70, 72, 73, 74, 78, 79, 83, 84, 85, 86, 89, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 102, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 114, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 125 PacketCluster, 5, 35, 36, 73, 96, 98, 102, 121, 122 PacketClusterZap, 21 PACLEN, 121 PBBS, 76 PBMON, 121 PC-HAM, 12, 50, 54, 103, 124 PgDn, 4, 40, 43, 44, 51, 53, 56 PgUp, 4, 8, 40, 51, 53, 99 Pick, 3, 39, 43, 121 PK, 1, 10, 11, 15, 17, 18, 22, 26, 57, 58, 59, 70, 71, 72, 73, 75, 77, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 97, 100, 102, 103, 109, 110, 111, 116, 118, 119, 120, 121 Possible, 106 Presents, 43 Prompt, 6, 26, 30, 31, 35, 57, 60, 62, 71, 73, 79, 82 PromptWindow, 6, 78 Putting, 106 QBM, 4, 5, 9, 47, 48, 73, 102, 113, 114, 115 QBU, 4, 6, 47, 48, 74, 102, 105, 117, 121 QBU-RX, 6, 9, 48, 74, 101, 102, 105 QBU-TX, 6, 9, 48, 74, 101, 102, 105 QDB, 4, 9, 47, 49, 114, 115, 121 QJG, 9, 50, 117 QJL, 10 QMH, 9, 13, 114, 115, 119 QNO, 9, 48, 49, 68, 113, 116, 117 QRA, 4, 9, 14, 50, 116 QRM, 11, 19, 25, 60, 65, 116 QRT, 6, 9, 21, 60, 65, 75, 76, 95, 108, 116, 117 QRU, 4, 9, 47, 49, 50, 104, 116, 117 QRV, 6, 9, 48, 49, 75, 76, 112, 117 QRZ, 2, 8, 29, 30, 62, 64, 96, 98 QSL, 9, 43, 48, 49, 50, 52, 60, 62, 64, 112, 117, 122, 124 QSM, 4, 9, 47, 48, 106, 107, 115, 121 QSO, 12, 21, 22, 23, 26, 36, 45, 47, 63, 65, 69, 70, 84, 86, 90, 93, 107, 109 QSP, 4, 5, 9, 21, 47, 49, 64, 68, 101, 104, 112, 116, 117 QSY, 60, 65 LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 136 QTA, 4, 9, 47, 50, 101, 106, 117, 121 QTC, 5, 9, 13, 21, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 71, 102, 106, 107, 117 QTC-Snatch, 107, 108, 119 QYD, 9, 117 QYU, 9, 117 Radio, 1, 2, 11, 12, 13, 59, 61, 83, 95, 100, 111, 112, 114, 119, 120, 122, 124 Recognize, 11, 16, 18, 25, 67, 108 REJECT, 65, 75 ReMember, 3, 12, 30, 31, 35, 68, 86, 89, 103 Repeat, 9, 25, 48, 99, 107, 115 Restart, 18, 45, 63 RETRIES, 88 RH, 72 RM, 38, 72 RN, 38, 72 Robot, 2, 3, 7, 8, 18, 19, 21, 22, 25, 44, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 89, 90, 91, 96, 98, 106, 121, 124 Route, 58, 61 RTTY, 5, 7, 14, 15, 21, 25, 58, 59, 83, 84, 90, 92, 99, 100, 121, 122 Runfile, 3 RXR, 59 RY's, 121 SAREX, 5, 7, 14, 21, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 81, 102, 121 Scheduler, 13, 44, 45 Screen, 3, 9, 14, 15, 19, 26, 28, 37, 40, 42, 43, 44, 51, 55, 56, 64, 67, 78, 79, 85, 88, 91, 92, 93, 96, 99, 100, 102, 111, 112, 126 Screwed, 51 Scroll, 23, 40, 78, 99 Scrollback, 8, 99 ScrollBackWindow, 6, 78 SELCAL, 5, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 26, 31, 32, 35, 36, 72, 73, 91, 92, 93, 96, 98, 101 Semiautomatic, 12, 50, 69 Shift, 2, 8, 20, 27, 59, 85, 87, 91, 92, 93, 100, 105 Shut-down, 121 Shutting, 58 Sideband, 100 SIGNAL, 7, 8, 13, 14, 16, 20, 25, 46, 50, 66, 83, 84, 85, 90, 94, 95, 97, 99, 100, 110, 119, 120, 121 SOLO, 6, 7, 22, 76, 85, 86 ST, 122 Stack, 121 STANDBY, 7, 83, 84, 89, 90 Status, 2, 5, 15, 19, 20, 25, 31, 36, 57, 58, 60, 61, 62, 64, 65, 66, 68, 69, 74, 78, 81, 82, 85, 86, 88, 89, 91, 92, 93, 100, 109, 119, 121, 126, 127 StatusWindow, 6, 78 LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 137 Stream, 6, 7, 8, 62, 80, 81, 86, 87, 89, 96, 97, 98, 110 Streams, 17, 22, 87, 89, 97, 98, 110 Sub-directory, 115 Sub-menu, 71, 72, 73, 74, 76, 81 Sub-modes, 21 Subject, 37, 42 Suffix, 27, 28, 43, 55, 68, 105 SYS, 3, 7, 8, 9, 15, 16, 17, 18, 25, 36, 38, 39, 43, 48, 54, 57, 64, 68, 73, 75, 81, 82, 88, 89, 92, 94, 101, 102, 103, 104, 110, 111, 113, 118, 119, 120, 121, 123 TheLink, 32, 103 Time-out, 109 Timer, 25, 62, 63, 108 Timestamp, 102 TNC, 1, 2, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 31, 33, 34, 35, 36, 41, 45, 46, 47, 48, 57, 58, 61, 62, 63, 64, 66, 67, 70, 72, 75, 76, 77, 78, 83, 84, 86, 87, 88, 89, 92, 94, 95, 96, 97, 101, 102, 103, 106, 109, 110, 111, 114, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 125, 126 Traffic, 7, 22, 50, 59, 60, 66, 71, 85, 86, 87, 110 Trigger, 5, 14, 37, 60, 68, 71, 102, 108 TXR, 59 TXT, 6, 18, 24, 41, 46, 65, 74, 90, 109 Type-ahead, 26 Un-mark, 52 UNPROTO, 63, 87 Unshift, 59, 92 Unshift-on-space, 20 Upload, 6, 9, 38, 49, 74, 83, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117 Uppercase, 3, 45, 46, 72 USOS, 8, 20, 59, 91, 92, 100 Verbose, 72 Watch, 111 Window, 2, 15, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 30, 31, 36, 40, 41, 42, 43, 47, 56, 58, 60, 61, 64, 65, 66, 68, 69, 74, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 85, 86, 89, 91, 92, 93, 98, 99, 100, 119, 120, 121 Windows, 27, 40, 42, 43, 79, 81 Wpm, 84, 100, 121 XFLOW, 19, 111 YAPP, 2, 9, 17, 103, 117, 122 Yellow, 20, 21, 22 Yourcall, 35, 38, 47, 66, 67, 68, 98, 108, 116 YYMMDD, 8, 23, 43, 47, 103, 121, 126 Zap, 3, 7, 8, 31, 35, 37, 42, 44, 45, 60, 70, 71, 72, 82, 96, 98, 99 LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990 LAN-LINK VERSION 1.58 PAGE 138 ZapBBS, 20, 21, 70, 71 Zapp, 64, 71, 83 ZCZC, 92, 94 LAN-LINK.DOC (c) G3ZCZ 1988, 1989, 1990