The key to any packet station is provided by the TNC (or MutiMode Controller). The Mutimode Controller is basically a TNC designed to decode additional modes. While we recommend the use of a TNC, TNC functions can be emulated with software and a sound card. None the less, most users feel you will get better performance as well as free your computer of overhead with a TNC.
TNC selection is usually the stickiest wicket for new packet users. This is because you probably have the other stuff so do I spend more money or not? If you are lucky enough to already own a radio with a TNC then by all means, us it. Actually, thats want got me started because it bothered me that I had a feature on the radio that I was not using.
If you don’t have TNC in one of your radios or one hanging around what next?
Well the choice is to buy new or used. At this time, there are a lot of good used TNC available with a little searching. Remember that there are a lot of used TNC’s sitting in closets collecting dust. I have purchased an MFJ for $55, a Kam for $50, a KPC 3 for $40 and a KPC 3+ for $110. And if it makes a difference, get a Kantronics product. I say this because most of the packet users around here use Kantronics. The other brands work fine but you will probably be able to get a little more local support if you stick with Kantronics.
If money is not a big factor consider the Kantronics KPC 3+ for about $200. Remember however that it is VHF only. For about $400 you can get a new Kam XL with will do VHF and HF Packet as will as RTTY, Pactor and a few other modes.
And if you feel real spendy, you can get the Mercedes of TNC’s and go with the SCS brand that runs from the mid 800’s to about 1200.
Back to reality, most users do not need the latest and greatest. Any used TNC in good repair should do you fine. And it does not have to be the latest model. My Kam is over 20 years old.
