[MDC-EC] Changes to RMS Packet Sysop requirements

[Mike Liller]

Here is a copy of the new rules for running a RMS Packet station:

SYSOP GUIDELINES and RMS Station Authorization
Before you inquire to become a WL2K sysop to run a Radio Mail Server (RMS) gateway station, we prefer you to be an active user of radio email in the system. If you are not a current user with a valid @winlink.org address, please see this page [1]. The strength and reliability of the network is based directly upon the quality of service provided by knowledgeable and attentive sysops. We maintain a high standard for sysops in order to provide a good user experience.
Currently, all WL2K RMS programs require your call sign to be in the WL2K user database with an administrator-assigned keycode and password. You will not be able to complete installation and operate WL2K sysop programs unless this is first set up by a WL2K administrator. Beginning after January 2012, the Winlink Development Team will make changes to the system to phase out software keycodes. RMS Packet on VHF/UHF will eventually be freely deployable with no advance authorization needed. HF gateway stations, regardless of the software used, will continue to require advance authorization by a WL2K administrator, but no key code will be necessary to run the software.
We authorize RMS high-frequency gateways to sysops who agree 1) to maintain their stations both online and on-the-air 24x7x365, 2) to provide dedicated equipment, and 3) to keep station software current. For any other special temporary use by a recognized emergency communications organization, please contact Steve Waterman, K4CJX [2], the Winlink 2000 administrator. Other than pre-approved portable or temporary stations, RMS stations that remain off-line or do not report to Common Mail Servers within 48 hours, or fail to operate with current software are purged from the network. Portable or temporary stations should be tested on a regular basis to maintain their readiness.
For network-wide alerts and sysop support, VHF/UHF sysops should join the "Winlink_Programs_Group" [3] at yahoogroups.com. HF sysops should join the "WINLINK2K" [4] group at yahoogroups.com. ALL RMS SYSOPS ARE ADVISED TO STAY CURRENT WITH ANNOUNCEMENTS MADE ON THE WL2K E-MAIL REFLECTORS.
	* Until system changes are fully implemented, RMS station authorizations for VHF operations and a KEYCODE for RMS Packet is still required. Contact Lor Kutchins, W3QA [5] for your authorization.

	* To request RMS station authorization for HF operations or a KEYCODE for RMS Pactor or RMS WINMOR contact Steve Waterman, K4CJX [2].
	* 

	* If your request is for a club station or a call that you do not control, have the trustee or the legal licensee make the request. As is only proper, we issue keycodes and passwords to the person responsible for the license. Only they may provide authorization to other individuals.
	* Provide in your request:
	1. Your name and call sign.
	2. The call sign of the RMS station. This call must be under your direct control as licensee or trustee.
	3. Whether the station will appear only on protected EmComm frequency lists or whether it will appear on public frequency lists.
	4. Your commitment in writing to:
-operate the station 24 hour/day, 7 days/week, 365 days/year,
-use dedicated equipment to provide uninterrupted service, and
-keep your station software up-to-date.

	5. A reference to confirm your affiliation with an EmComm organization, if you intend to operate the station as a temporary or portable asset.
Thanks,
The Winlink Development Team
 
73de
Mike Liller, N7NMS
ARRL Maryland/DC Section, Assistant SEC