April 2026 PKTNET Instructions

Dear Packet Users,
This month, we will conduct a two-part check-in process. In coordination with Jim (KY2D) from the RRI Leadership Team, we will be utilizing both an NTS Radiogram and a follow-up Net Check-in form.

Due to the growth of the TPRFN Network and renewed interest in Packet Radio, we are using this opportunity to test the Digital Traffic Network (DTN). To assist those unfamiliar with the format, an online Radiogram form is available here: https://www.tprfn.net/radiogram-form. Detailed instructions are provided at the top of the page. Please ensure all messages are sent to the designated address specified in the instructions to ensure they are recorded. Messages may be injected via your local BBS or any TPRFN Hub Station.

The second part of the check-in requires submitting the standard Net Check-in form as a Bulletin packet message, as per our established procedure. I have attached a PDF document to this email providing full details on how to participate in both components.

The objective of this exercise is twofold: to ensure all users can correctly format and send NTS messages, and to identify any functional issues within the current packet network for passing NTS traffic. By comparing the Radiograms received against the secondary packet check-in forms found here: https://vden.org/pktnet/check_in.html, we can determine if any messages failed to reach their destination. And of course, have a little fun doing it.

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Greetings Operators,
This net is designed to help maintain and sharpen your digital skills across multiple platforms. We encourage all operators to take advantage of this training/net opportunity.

NET SCHEDULE:
STARTS: Sunday, April 19th @ 00:00 UTC ENDS: Saturday, April 25th @ 23:59 UTC NOTE:   
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 !!! NO EARLY CHECK-INS PLEASE !!! Check-ins must be sent within the window above.
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CHECK-IN REQUIREMENTS:

FORM: Please use the "Net Check-in" Packet HTML form: https://vden.org/pktnet/check_in.html and the Radiogram tool here: https://www.tprfn.net/radiogram-form

HUB STATIONS: If possible, please utilize a TPRFN Hub station. List: https://www.tprfn.net/tprfn-hub-station-profiles

LOGGING: In the comment section, please specify the Hub station and band used (or note if a non-TPRFN station was used).

MAPPING: All check-ins will be mapped at: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1ZrtB3pv8QW9LrRhBKRmOHE-MHykuoWs&usp=sharing ---

INSTRUCTIONS BY MODE (Credit received for each mode used)

PACKET: (2 parts this month)

Part 1:

NTS Radiogram form MUST BE SENT TO : JIM KUTSCH, KY2D, PO BOX 159, DAMARISCOTTA, ME, 04543, KY2D@ARRL.NET

Message Text: April PKTNET checkin. I am using the (??) BBS System. 73.

Please note the form will create your message in the proper format.

Part 2:Address Bulletin to: PKTNET@USA 

Subject: Name, Call, Town, State Message: 

Paste HTML form data

WINLINK:
Address Your Message to: TPRFN@WINLINK.ORG 

Subject: Name, Call, Town, State Message: Paste HTML form data 

VarAC:
Address VMail Email to: TPRFN@WINLINK.ORG 

Subject: //WL2K Name, Call, Town, State (Note: You MUST include //WL2K at the start of the subject) 

Message: Paste HTML form data 

APRS:
 Send Message To: N3MEL-6 Message Text: Name, Town, State
 
RESOURCES & RECRUITMENT:
LOCAL FORMS: Download the full suite to your PC: https://vden.org/pktnet/
BECOME A HUB: Interested in supporting the network? https://www.tprfn.net/contact-us

 Thank you for your continued support of the network.
 73,
 The TPRFN Team