What is your TNC doing? - Book Introduction

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Introduction

The information in this book is presented in chronological order: packets begin at the keyboard of a computer, travel through a cable to the TNC, get processed in the TNC, travel through another cable to the radio, and are then transmitted. Packet header information (that can be displayed to the computer screen) is discussed as well as the AX.25 frame structure.

If you have a specific interest, you may want to start reading with the chapter that deals with a particular subject. Most of the information in each chapter is self-contained and does not heavily rely on knowledge from previous chapters. However, if you find yourself getting confused, you may want to check the index for a possible previous discussion or read the book from the beginning. In particular, binary and hex notation are defined in the first chapter; some parts of the book may be hard to understand without this knowledge.

Chapter 1 - The Computer. Since most packets begin by someone typing on the computer keyboard, this book begins with a brief description of how a computer works. The PC XT is used as the basis for this description. Even though the PC XT is becoming obsolete, it is the easiest to describe and newer computers follow the same fundamental principles.

Chapter 2 - The Computer to TNC Cable. The computer talks to the TNC through a cable that is attached to both units. Several wires are in this cable, and their functions are explained in this chapter.

Chapter 3 - Terminal Program and TNC Settings. The TNC can talk to the computer in several ways; and some computers can talk to the TNC in several ways. Both units must be set to talk the same way or they will not understand each other.

Chapter 4 - Inside the TNC. Packets are formed in the TNC and then transmitted. You can set many parameters that affect the efficiency of this process. The TNC also receives packets.

Chapter 5 - TNC to Radio Wiring and Adjustments. The TNC talks to the radio through a cable that is attached to both units. Several wires are in this cable, and their functions are explained in this chapter.

Chapter 6 - Sample QSOs. Packet header information is often displayed on your screen. Header information (such as REJ6, RR3, DM) is explained by examining two QSOs.

Chapter 7 - The AX.25 Frame. The TNC puts information in packets in a very specific order. This order is defined in the AX.25 protocol and is explained in this chapter.

Chapter 8 - Guide to Troubleshooting. Some solutions to common problems are listed in this chapter.

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