Winlink

Winlink opens after launching Start Modems->Vara from 73Linux
Winlink is also launched from the terminal with the command
pat
Easy way to setup is to install 73Linux
Winlink is a global radio email system that uses radio frequencies to send and receive messages. It is commonly used by amateur radio operators, emergency responders, and maritime users to communicate when traditional internet access is unavailable.

Verify

When you get your Winlink acct and post a GPS location using your toughbook, you can test with your browser by going to https://aprs.fi APRS and entering your callsign.

At home ref(Requires Internet)

KM4ACK
KM4ACK - Winlink Express
Pat download
Pat\Winlink Ref

Direwolf

Verify Direwolf is installed

Open Terminal (Ctrl-Alt-T)
which direwolf
direwolf --version
As of May 2026 - version 1.8

Get Sound Card

Make sure your radio is connected
Open Terminal (Ctrl-Alt-T)
arecord -l
For Toughbook CF-31:

Verify Config

locate direwolf.conf
/home/<user>/direwolf.com
nano /home/drogon/direwolf.conf
ADEVICE plughw:3,0
MCALL KO6LVT <- your callsign
MODEM 1200
If using flrig
PTT RIG 2 localhost:4532

Verify Direwolf runs OK

Open Terminal (Ctrl-Alt-T)
direwolf -p
Start flrig if error
rigctl -m 4
rigctld will just "sit there" while the test is running

ax25

sudo apt install -y ax25-tools ax25-apps
Ports
sudo nano /etc/ax25/axports
wl2k KO6LVT 1200 255 7 Winlink
whereis ardop*

flrig

Ctrl-Alt-T to open terminal


        arecord -l

        ls /dev/snd/by-id

Settings
USB audio codec (In settings)

Vara

Settings
USB audio codec (In settings)

Pat

/home/${user}/.config/pat

Ardop

Winlink ARDOP configuration involves setting up the ARDOP Virtual TNC for audio and the Radio Setup for CAT control and PTT. The process differs slightly depending on whether you use Winlink Express (Windows) or Pat(Linux/Windows), but the core components remain consistent

Config

/home/${user}/.config/pat

Fill in your details:
Update at least these four lines with your Winlink credentials and grid square


       "mycall": "YOUR_CALLSIGN",

         "secure_login_password": "YOUR_WINLINK_PASSWORD",

         "locator": "YOUR_6_DIGIT_GRID_SQUARE",

         "http_addr": "127.0.0.1:8080"

2 Meters

Setting up Pat Winlink on 2-meter VHF using a Baofeng handheld radio requires a software TNC like Direwolf, an audio/PTT interface cable (such as a Digirig or SignaLink), and proper adjustment of your radio's audio levels.

Software Configuration Steps

Direwolf: Configure your direwolf.conf file to recognize the sound card device and set the PTT channel correctly for 1200 baud AX.25 packet operation.
AX.25 Port: Define your local AX.25 port settings to bind Direwolf's KISS TNC interface to Pat.
Pat Setup: Edit the Pat configuration file (config.json) to include your amateur radio call sign and point the transport address to your local AX.25 interface.

Tuning and Operation Tips

Audio Levels: Sound card packet radio is extremely sensitive to input volume. Adjust the volume knob on your Baofeng in very tiny increments if decoding fails.
Squelch & Power: Turn the Baofeng squelch completely off (set to 0) and set transmit power to high when initiating sessions.
Gateway Distance: Handheld radios have limited line-of-sight range; ensure a local 1200 baud VHF Winlink RMS gateway is within range or use an external roof-mounted antenna.

KM4ACK - Jason |