Winlink

What is Winlink?

Winlink is a worldwide radio messaging system that allows licensed amateur operators to send and receive email—including attachments—without relying on the internet. Instead, it uses HF, VHF, or UHF radio frequencies. Winlink is widely used by emergency services, maritime operators, and amateur radio volunteers to maintain critical communications when traditional networks fail.

The system is developed and maintained by volunteers through the Amateur Radio Safety Foundation (ARSF) and offers resilient, global messaging capabilities even in remote or disaster-affected areas.

Who is Winlink For?

Winlink is ideal for:

  • Amateur radio operators interested in emergency communications (EMCOMM).

  • Search and rescue teams requiring reliable messaging.

  • Civil defense groups planning for infrastructure failures.

  • Remote operators (boaters, travelers) needing email without standard internet service.

  • Anyone participating in disaster preparedness exercises.

No prior digital mode experience is required—if you can operate FT8, you can learn Winlink easily!

How to Connect to Our Winlink Gateway

Marlborough Amateur Radio Club operates a 24/7 Winlink RMS Gateway, located near Picton.

Requirements:

  • A licensed amateur radio station.

  • A computer (Windows PC recommended) or Android device.

  • Winlink Express (Windows) or WoAD (Android) client software.

  • VARA modem software for HF or VHF/UHF digital communication.

  • A suitable radio interface (sound card or digital interface cable).

  • A VHF/UHF radio or HF transceiver.

Marlborough Local Access:

  • VHF/UHF/HF RMS Gateway at ZL2KS (24/7 operation)

    • ZL2KS-10 (VHF – 2m)
    • ZL2KS-12 (UHF – 70cm)
    • ZL2KS (HF – 80m, 40m, 20m) 

  • Internet connection and backup power provided by the club.

HF access is also available via other RMS gateways throughout New Zealand, Australia, and beyond.

Getting Started

  1. Download and Install:

  2. Configure Your Client:

    • Follow available tutorials online (Google is your friend).

    • Pay careful attention to audio settings between your PC, VARA, and radio.

  3. Connect:

    • Use “Auto-connect” in Winlink Express to automatically select the best available gateway.

    • Look for ZL2KS in the channel listings.

  4. Practice:

    • Participate in activities like “Winlink Wednesday” and AREC check-ins to maintain operational readiness.

Why Use Winlink?

  • Infrastructure-free: Operates entirely without internet or cell networks.

  • Reliable: Proven track record in real-world emergencies.

  • Versatile: Supports email, forms, weather reports, and positional data.

  • Cost-effective: Software is free; hardware requirements are modest.

  • Secure: Offers optional encryption where permitted.

Future Plans

Marlborough Amateur Radio Club aims to:

  • Grow the local Winlink user base through regular exercises and training.

  • Enhance resilience to support emergency responses in scenarios like earthquakes (e.g., Alpine Fault AF8 events) or cyber outages.

Learn more about Winlink:

Presentations:

Winlink by Greg, ZL2GBX – A comprehensive overview of Winlink, detailing the local setup in Blenheim and its functionalities.

Acknowledgments:
We gratefully acknowledge the support of AREC, whose donation of essential equipment has been instrumental in establishing and maintaining our Winlink gateway services.

We further extend our sincere thanks to John Errington (ZL3TIL) and Greg Barton (ZL2GBX) for their outstanding work in designing, constructing, and testing the gateway, ensuring a reliable and resilient communications platform for our region.