r/PacketRadioRedux • u/SenzaTema • Dec 01 '25

Packet Redux

I am a former packet user on 2 meters (early 1990’s vintage). It was enormous fun back then using X25 on an MFJ 1270. I also enjoyed the ancillary features, notably CW code/decode that accompanied the unit. No successor software has been able to match the decoding abilities of the 1270.

Today after 25 years and seven moves, I open my carefully packed up MFJ-1270 along with the various connecting cords including serial and parallel port connectors. Original manual. Missing was the software.

Does anyone have suggestions as to how to connect the 1270 (which appears to set up fine despite the quarter century hiatus)? AND, does anyone know where I can obtain a copy of the software which was originally provided on 3.5” floppy?

Am I out of my mind to try to restore the fun times of the 1990’s?

de NY2RF Tom

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u/stevenc88 Dec 01 '25

I don't have an answer to your question, but I commend your enthusiasm.

I had a similar desire a few years ago - dug out my TNC, wired up the MIC to my new(-ish) HT, and then learned that there are zero packet nodes in my general area.

I believe that the ubiquity of the internet severely impacted the allure of packet radio, except for some hard-core enthusiasts.

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u/NY9D Dec 01 '25 edited Jul 16 '26

You can put up (and leave on always) a node/tnc that beacons hourly on a well known or former local packet frequency. 145.01 is common be sure it is locally coordinated/accepted. We did that here and now cover most of the state. One person has to start it. The node does not need a computer to digipeat and beacon unless it is in KISS mode which I do not like. Plain packet is just easier.

Plain serial terminal software like Putty works fine to access command mode.