A terminal node controller, aka TNC, is required to send and receive Winlink email messages through the Sandhills Packet Digipeater Network. If you already have a hardware TNC device then you do not need to go any further. However, if you do not have a hardware TNC you can use your soundcard. Your soundcard may be a Tigertronics SignaLink USB or a soundcard built into your radio.

In order to use your soundcard, you need to run a packet emulation software called SoundModem by UZ7HO. Download the SoundModem software. Once you download the archived file, open it.

Click Extract all under the Compressed Folder Tools ribbon tab.

Extract the file to C:\soundmodem105 and click the Extract button.

Double-click soundmodem to open the program.

A firewall message will appear the first time the program runs. Click the Allow access button.

Make sure A is AFSK AX.25 1200bd and 1700.

Click Devices under the Settings menu.

Select the correct soundcard for both Output and Input devices and verify your settings match these. Click the OK button when finished.

Click the OK button on the warning message.

Select Modems under the Settings menu.

Make sure your settings match and click the OK button when finished.

There will be a SoundModem icon in the Systray by the clock when the program is running.

SoundModem is now configured. You can now close the program.