Node Building

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 21:55:40 +0100

Assembling your own node

There are a few capable pieces of software out there that will handle the business of runnning your node:

BPQ
XRouter
TARPN
LinFBB
For the truly brave, the built in AX.25 stack in the Linux Kernel

Node Hardware

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 21:00:40 +0100

Node Hardware

Most nodes are built using ex-taxi or transport Mobile Radios. They’re desirable as they’re built to run for long periods, high duty cycles and are (usually) designed for data use with easily access accessory ports and flat audio input/output.

Keep an eye out on ebay and other sources, but prices seem to be inflated lately owing to resurgance of the network in the UK.

You can get started with other radios, best performance will be those that support 9600 baud packet natively, like the Yaesu FT-8xx series with mini-DIN 8 DATA ports (and remembering to set the radio for PKT MODE 9600 accordingly).

Known good radios

Tait 8010
Tait 2000
Motorola GM340/360
Motorola GM350
Kenwood TK-76x, TK-78x

Programming

Ben has programming hardware and software for all of the above, contact him if you source a radio and need a hand getting set up.

Coax

Why is coax being brought up? Simple.

Data modes like Packet need a good SNR to work reliably. Don’t skimp on the coax, keep the runs short and if you can, run hardline for the best performance.

Hardware available from EIRPAK

Vertex VX2000 x 1 - Programmed for Packet use, with an accessory port. Cable will need to be made up for it.
Tait 2000 (4M) x 2 - Both with DE-9 ports fitted that map to the TNC pinout for convenience.
Ascom SE550 (4M) x 1 - Should be good for 1200 at least.

Packet on EIRPAK

Node Building

Assembling your own node

Node Hardware

Node Hardware

Known good radios

Programming

Coax

Hardware available from EIRPAK