What is packet radio?
Packet radio is a data communications mode that uses a modified form of the LAPB signaling protocol on HDLC. Simply put, two packet radio stations that are within direct range of each-other can establish an error free data connection, normally at 1200 baud. Packet radio stations may also act as automatic repeaters (‘digipeaters’) and can relay other stations’ signals. Using packet radio, many bulletin boards or mailboxes exist to handle messages for those active on packet radio in their locality, these messages can include ‘bulletins’ that are open to all and are often distributed across every packet radio bulletin board in the UK, or further a field. Most packet radio is operated in the 2m and 70cm bands.
