Sending A Winlink or Commercial Email Via A BPQ BBS

Sending a Winlink message through a BPQ Bulletin Board System (BBS) allows you to bridge standard packet/VARA message traffic directly into the global Winlink network without needing a direct internet connection at your end station.

1. Winlink Message Format Requirements

To ensure the BPQ BBS automatically routes your outgoing message to the Winlink system (via Sysop forwarding or RMS gateway integration), the message headers must follow a strict format:

• To Address: Must be formatted as WINLINK or the recipient’s full email address (e.g., callsign@winlink.org or user@example.com).
• Message Type: Send as a Private Message (SP).
• Subject Line: Keep it concise and descriptive.

2. Step-by-Step Command Guide

Step 1: Access the BPQ BBS

From your terminal program, connect to the BPQ switch and enter the BBS environment:

N3MEL:EPAHUB> BBS

(You will receive the BBS prompt, e.g., BBS> or N3MEL BBS>)

Step 2: Initiate a Private Message (SP)

Option A: Sending to a Winlink Callsign (@winlink.org)

When sending to a valid Winlink user account, specify WINLINK as the routing host:

SP KC3ABC @ WINLINK

Option B: Sending to a Standard Internet Email Address

To send to a conventional email address, include the full address in the destination:

SP user@domain.com

Step 3: Enter Subject and Message Body

1. Subject Prompt: Enter your subject when prompted.Subject: Field Ops Status Report
2. 
   
3. Body Text: Type or paste your message text. Keep formatting simple (ASCII text only).
4. Send / Terminate: End the message on a new line with /EX or CTRL+Z (depending on your terminal setup).

Enter message text. End with /EX on a new line.

--------------------------------------------------

Arrived at primary field site. Grid locator FM29.

Operations nominal on VARA HF/FM.

/EX

3. Addressing Rules Quick-Reference

4. Checking Received Winlink Messages

Incoming Winlink emails routed to your callsign through the BBS will appear in your private message inbox.

1. At the BBS prompt, list your unread private messages:LM
2. 
   
3. Read the specific message index number:R 12
4. 
   
5. Delete the message after reading/saving:KM 12
6. 
   

Diagnostic Tips for Successful Forwarding

• Hold Status Check: If your message doesn't send immediately, use the LL (List Last) command to check message status. An H status flag means the message is held pending forwarding.
• BBS Forwarding Schedules: BPQ BBS nodes batch-forward traffic to Winlink RMS gateways or internet server targets on timed intervals. Instant delivery depends on active gateway outbound connections.