Epson MFJ-1278B Your First Packet QSO, Starting the QSO, Cmd Connect WB0QRP, Connected to WB0QRP

MFJ-1278B MULTI-MODE BASIC OPERATION

Your First Packet QSO

Although there are still a number of features you should be familiar with, you are probably eager to get on-the-airand try out your new MFJ-1278B. Arrange to have another packet operator get on the air to help you get started. Make sure that your friend will be close enough to ensure solid copy, with no FM "popcorn" noise.

It's best if you can get an experienced packet operator to help you get started. If you are both beginners, try to have both stations in the same room and operate on low power or into dummy loads.

The first step in starting packet radio operating is to remove the shorting jumper from Digital Loopback header, JMP10. Connect your radio to the MFJ-1278B. Turn on your computer, the MFJ-1278B, and your radio. Be sure you have adjusted the MFJ-1278B and radio according to one of the methods described in Chapter 3. When the other station transmits, the DCD LED on the MFJ-1278B should glow steadily for the duration of the transmission. You can work through the remainder of the examples in this chapter while you try out the MFJ-1278B on the air.

Starting the QSO

Once you have the MFJ-1278B connected to your radio, you are ready to initiate a connect. For the sake of example, we will continue to use K5FLU in place of your call sign, and we will use WB0QRP for your friend's call. Make sure you are in Command Mode, and type:

cmd: CONNECT WB0QRP

After a moment you should see the message:

*** CONNECTED to WB0QRP

and you will be in Converse Mode. Your friend will see the message:

*** CONNECTED to K5FLU

and he will also be in Converse Mode. You have just begun your first packet QSO.

If you have trouble connecting, make sure your microphone drive level is set properly, as described in Chapter 3. It may be helpful to have an experienced packet operator monitor your transmissions with his TNC. You can also try the following procedure:

a.Both you and your friend should set MONITOR ON.

b.Enter Converse Mode and send some packets.

c.Each station should display packets sent by the other. If only one station is "hearing" properly, you can concentrate on the modulator and transmitter of that station and the demodulator and receiver of the other station. You can try experimenting with the TXDELAY timing command for the sending TNC.