Deploying, Training, and Supporting VARA FM & Winlink Operators

The Amateur Radio Collective of Western Carolina (ARCWC) plays a role in deploying, assisting, and training operators in the use of VARA FM and Winlink for emergency communications and off-grid messaging. Given ARCWC’s focus on community service, emergency preparedness, and collective radio operations, incorporating VARA FM RMS stations and Winlink training enhances regional communication capabilities.

Establishing VARA RMS Nodes

ARCWC works to set up VARA FM RMS (Radio Message Servers) in strategic locations across Western North Carolina to improve local and regional digital communications. These RMS stations serve as vital connection points to the global Winlink network, allowing licensed operators to send and receive emails, forms, and data without internet access.

Weekly Exercises and Net

ARCWC provides opportunities for weekly exercises and nets, enabling operators to refine their skills, test their equipment, and stay engaged in digital and emergency communications. Regular events include Winlink Wednesday, where operators practice sending and receiving messages through the Winlink system, and the Advanced Operators Net, which focuses on VARA FM proficiency, EmComm scenarios, and advanced messaging. These and other scheduled activities help members stay prepared for real-world deployments. See the ARCWC Calendar for a full list of active Winlink events and training opportunities.

Training Events & Announcements

Operator Training & Workshops

ARCWC conducts hands-on training sessions for individuals, emergency responders, and community groups. These workshops cover:

• Setting up VARA FM on a PC and radio
• Connecting to Winlink RMS stations
• Sending Winlink Traffic (ICS-213, SMS, Catalog Request, etc.)
• Troubleshooting common issues

Live Demonstrations for Local Operators

ARCWC actively demonstrates Winlink and VARA FM capabilities to the local amateur radio community, including members of ARES, local radio clubs, groups, and individual operators upon request. These live demos help operators understand how this digital mode can provide reliable, high-speed emergency messaging when traditional infrastructure fails.

Emergency Communications Exercises (EmComm Drills)

ARCWC members participate in local and state-level disaster scenarios, such as:

• Simulated power and internet outages
• Hurricane Response
• Coordinated regional drills testing VARA FM networks for emergency communication

Deployable Stations for Field Operations

ARCWC identifies volunteer operators who can offer portable VARA FM and Winlink RMS stations that can be quickly deployed if needed. This ensures message relays in disaster-stricken areas can continue.

By integrating VARA FM and Winlink into its operations, ARCWC strengthens its ability to support emergency response, off-grid communities, and community service efforts across Western North Carolina.

Would you like assistance with training , deployments, or to volunteer for ARCWC? Contact us at winlink@arcwc.net.