[HCRA] Old PC needed for the IRLP node.

[Jim - KK1W]

Hey folks,

 

Once again our IRLP node is down due to computer failure. The last PC we got
from Larry held up well but it's finally given up, rolled over and is doing
a very good job of playing dead!

 

So, do any of our local HCRA members have an old PC they could donate to the
cause? We don't need much really, anything 500 MHz of faster is fine. A hard
drive isn't necessary, neither is an operating system. Don't need a
keyboard, mouse, monitor - none of that stuff. Is there anyone out there
than can help us out?

 

The HCRA IRLP node is a super way for folks to talk world wide via ham
radio, even without sunspots. IRLP is truly radio too, unlike Winlink there
are no PC users, all conversations are radio to radio. Not sure what exactly
it is we're talking about? You can read all about it on our website at:
http://www.hcra.org/irlp.htm.

 

Our IRLP node is a simplex node located in South Hadley. Coverage area
obviously isn't as good as if it were on a mountaintop but it covers
Springfield, Holyoke and Northampton pretty well. Unlike some other IRLP
nodes in the area it is open to everyone with a ham license that can access
it. Once we get it back up why not give it a try - it is pretty cool being
able to use your handheld and talk around the world. John, Kx1x, has been
(and still is) the guy that keeps the fires burning under the IRLP node.
We're still on our first VHF radio (a Yaesu FT2400 I think), been through a
lot of PC's and even more hard drives but he keeps it plugging along. All we
need now is another old PC to get it back on the air again.

 

Please respond to the list or directly to John at: mailto:kx1x at arrl.net.

 

Thanks for your support and don't forget - Show & Tell is this coming
Friday, March 5th. There's still plenty of time to get something ready for
the show.

 

'73 for now, see you Friday,

 

Jim, KK1W