Winlink Radio Email System
Winlink is a global email system for licensed amateur radio (ham) operators that works even when the internet and cell networks are down. It acts like an email service, but sends and receives messages over radio pathways rather than through an internet connection.
In emergencies, the Winlink system is used to transmit crucial, time-sensitive information that helps coordinate relief efforts and maintain communication when other networks fail. Winlink’s main strength is the ability to send Incident Command System (ICS) forms, which are standard message formats used by emergency responders including hospital status reports, resource requests, situation reports, shelter and evacuation information, Wellness check-ins, needed supply spreadsheets, images of damaged infrastructures and GPS positional data.
Using special software called Winlink Express, people can write an email just as they normally would. It becomes a radio signal by converting the message into data that the ham radio can send over the air. The ham radio must be turned on. It then travels to a gateway station and the radio transmits the signal to a volunteer-operated Radio Message Server (RMS), also known as a gateway. This RMS acts as a digital bridge to the email recipient who also has Winlink Express and their ham radio turned on. If the internet is working RMS forwards the message to the main Winlink servers via the internet, which then delivers it to the recipient’s email address.
If the internet is down: The RMS can forward the message to another RMS over radio, creating a “radio-only” network to get the email closer to its destination. For more information about Winlink, visit www.winlink.org.
Ham, General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) and Family Radio Service (FRS) radios play a vital role in emergency communication, and can work without relying on any existing infrastructure. The LW Radio Club members have a wealth of knowledge and they are happy to share it with others.
For more information on ham, GMRS or FRS radios call the Radio Room at 562-431-6586, ext. 2409, or come to the monthly meeting on the first Wednesday of each month in Clubhouse 3, Room 9, at 9:45 a.m., or visit www.lwsb.com/amateur-radioservice- club/.
