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.
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

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

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"