After mostly finishing a major project to migrate most of my server based systems to Kubernetes I was ready to dive back into Amateur Radio. The last couple of weeks have seen a flurry of activity.

GB7ESC - the other Blackpool BBS - shut down so I spent some time seeking out new links to connect GB7FCI to the outside world. I now have links to Cambridge, Kidderminster, Swindon, Oswaldtwistle, Sheffield and St Bees in Cumbria. These are internet links, but for now without nearby RF connections that’s all I can use.

Another major change is that GB7FCI is now hosting a WPS node. WPS is a chat/instant messaging system which uses amateur packet links (RF and Internet) to provide the service. It’s a replicated service, so any messages posted on GB7FCI will be visible on all other servers and vice versa. If you’d like to use WPS look on frames.oarc.uk/. If you’re in the North-West of England then you’re welcome to connect through my node. Please contact me for details of how to connect.

There are other developments too, but I’ll leave those for another day because I’m still working on them.