Using the Wisconsin Network - Part 23
                   by Andy Nemec, KB9ALN
 
     All of us know that technology changes, just like the
rest of life. After all, it was not all that long ago that
packet radio was a brand-new mode, and more of a curiousity
than useful.  Not only have various aspects of packet radio
operation been improved, there are promising innovations just
waiting for the right opportunity to become practical and
useful. So far, we have only scratched the surface and have
seen a more of a refinement of packet radio rather than a
revoloution.

     This refinement is reflected by the changes we see in the
network here in Wisconsin. A few years ago for example, TCP/IP
operation was limited to one experimental frequency.
Improvements in the programs used, and the methods used to
route TCP/IP "packets" made it possible to "mainstream" this
mode. A good many of the network nodes in Wisconsin are now
capable of passing TCP/IP traffic. This only makes sense
considering that it is the protocol set used for the Internet.
Although our Amateur packet network differs from the internet,
there is a great deal we have in common. It all boils down to
computers exchanging information.  Whether it is a keyboard
chat or sending files to and fro, the common element is this
exchange of information.

     We as Amateurs tend to think of packet radio as another
mode to "work". While this is true, there is really much more
to the story. As we have seen in past editions of "Using the
Wisconsin Network", your local node is more than a simple
"repeater". It is a sophisticated router and works in concert
with other nodes to form our network. But the bulk of the main
network traffic is still passed in much the same way it was 5
years ago (a long time in the computer world!). If we are to
look at new ways to use packet radio (and educate ourselves),
we will have to look at the technology of the Internet for
inspiriation. While we can't mimic the Internet, we can adapt,
rework, and refine the technology so that we can use some of
it with radio.

     One question may have already entered your mind - why?
Changing a good part of any network just because we can is not
a good enough reason to change it. A better answer might be is
increased capability. Amateur packet radio is limited to being
a mail service, an ocassional way to chat, and a way to
transfer small text files. Binary files are another matter -
is has to be converted to and from a text file to pass through
the various radio systems. One does not get a graphical user
interface, an easy method to transfer binary files and other
conveniences like search "engines" that we find on the
Internet. If we want to expand the capabilities of packet
radio, we may very well have to adjust to new ways of
networking - and "interfacing" with the network.

     Right now our network is evolving from the use of two
protocols - we use AX.25 and Net/Rom as methods for our
computers to communicate. Why do we need other protocols?
Think of a protocol as a vehicle used to transport
information.  The information comes in various types. Think of
this information as items that need to be transported.

     You would never try and haul firewood through the
Northwoods with a Cadillac Eldorado, would you? It is not
suitable for the purpose. Likewise, you would never want to
take a cross-country trip in a logging truck. The Cadillac is
better suited for that purpose. The same can be said of
protocols. Using AX.25 and Net/Rom will not fulfill the
potential that packet radio has - they are not complete enough
to do all that we may ask of them in the future.

     And that is what the next few parts of this series is
about. New uses for packet radio, and new methods to transport
information through a network is what will be discussed. We
will see how other parts of the country are constructing their
packet radio networks and what hams in other countries are
doing with their networks.

     While we are doing well getting the Wisconsin network
constructed across the state, there is much to be done. 9600
baud nodes are fast becoming part of the network, and some are
even cropping up as end-user LAN nodes. One of the more
important steps that WAPR took was recommending the
installation of TheNet X-1J node firmware. It's expanded AX.25
and Net/Rom capabilities, in addition to it's ability to route
TCP/IP, will no doubt help to prepare us to enter "the new
age" of packet.

     In the next part of the series, we will investigate a
network that does not use conventional Net/Rom to function. We
will see how this change will allow us to do more with our
packet stations - and just what this "more" is.

     After we see what is possible, we will explore a few ways
to make your current packet station a little close to the "new
age".

  ***End of Part 23***