By Glenn R Allison N3MEL

In an increasingly interconnected world, our reliance on commercial communication networks—cellular, internet, and landlines—is undeniable. However, when disasters strike, these very systems are often the first to fail, leaving communities isolated and emergency responders struggling to coordinate. This is where the Packet Radio RF Forwarding Network (TPRFN) steps in, offering a vital and resilient communication backbone that could prove to be a true lifesaver during emergencies.

TPRFN is a network built upon amateur radio (ham radio) packet radio technology. Unlike commercial networks that depend on extensive and often vulnerable infrastructure, ham radio operates on independent frequencies and can be maintained with minimal power requirements and portable equipment. The core mission of TPRFN is to rebuild and enhance the RF (Radio Frequency) packet radio backbone across the United States, creating a robust and redundant system for data communication.

Why TPRFN is Crucial in Emergencies:

  • Resilience Against Infrastructure Failure: When cell towers are toppled, power grids are down, or internet cables are severed, commercial communication becomes impossible. TPRFN, relying on decentralized amateur radio stations with battery or solar power backups, can continue to operate. This makes it an indispensable tool for maintaining communication when traditional systems fail.
  • Data Communication Capabilities: Beyond voice communication, packet radio allows for the transmission of data. This means that during an emergency, responders can send and receive text messages, forms, incident reports, and even small files. This is critical for conveying detailed information, coordinating resources, and maintaining situational awareness.
  • Off-Grid Operation: Many TPRFN nodes are designed to operate independently of the commercial power grid. Equipped with solar panels, generators, and battery banks, these stations can remain operational for extended periods, providing a persistent communication channel even in prolonged outages.
  • Interoperability and Coordination: Amateur radio operators, often organized into groups like the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) and Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES), are trained in emergency communication protocols. The TPRFN facilitates an organized monthly "net" where information can be systematically collected, relayed, and distributed across the network and to various agencies as needed.
  • Bridging Communication Gaps: Natural disasters can create communication "dead zones." The TPRFN, through its strategically placed Hub & Polling Stations, can extend communication ranges and bridge these gaps, ensuring that even remote or isolated areas can maintain contact with incident command centers.

How it Works:

  • The TPRFN leverages various digital modes, including AX.25 Packet, HF & FM VARA, ARDOP, and AREDN. These technologies enable data to be transmitted reliably over radio waves, often through a series of "hubs" that forward the information across the network. This distributed architecture means that even if some nodes are offline, the network can reroute traffic, further enhancing its resilience.
  • Why Packet Radio, 1. Interoperability with Multiple Systems: Packet Radio can interface with other digital systems, including email, SMS, and internet gateways. This flexibility is vital for emergency communications where different organizations and technologies must work together seamlessly. Standard Protocols: It uses standardized protocols like AX.25, ensuring that equipment from different manufacturers can communicate, which is essential when coordinating between various emergency response teams. 2. Network Flexibility Ad-Hoc Networking: Packet Radio networks can be set up quickly and operates peer-to-peer within the TPRFN Network, allowing for flexible network topologies. This adaptability is critical in rapidly changing disaster environments.
  • Winlink, although we believe in the concept of this valuable service and most network Hub Stations offer Remote Message Service (RMS) as well as APRS SMS & Email services (more on Winlink below). Additional we are watching the development of the IP400 Mesh: https://adrcs.org/adrcs/ip400-network-project/
  • The network operates in a Near Vertical Incidence Skywave (NVIS) configuration on HF which allow for data transfer even in the worst of band conditions such as the solar storms we have been experiencing. TPRFN also leverages VARAHF which has the ability to connect and move the data when other modes can’t. With VARAHF we also have error correction so when the message arrives at its destination it is complete.
  • For example, during a widespread power outage, a remote EMCOMM team could use a packet radio terminal to send a message requesting specific supplies or reporting on the number patients, which would then be relayed through the TPRFN to an emergency operations center. Similarly, evacuation orders or public safety announcements could be disseminated to affected areas.
  • TPRFN's strength is to those portable ad-hoc HF stations that may be needed after a local or regional event (like Hurricane Helene in NC) although the network did not see much activity, we continue to be ready and on the air 24/7.
  • How can you help? TPRFN Hub and Polling Stations currently consist of individual Amateur Radio Operators and their stations, but Amateur Radio HF stations operated by groups such as Amateur Radio clubs or Emergency Communications organizations are welcome to participate in TPRFN. The TPRFN Network is continually looking for additional stations across the country to serve as either a (full time) Hub Station or a (part time) Polling Station using VARAHF.
  • The network offers assistance with setting up a network station or just an end user station that will allow you access to the Packet network as well as Winlink RMS, these instructions can be found on our website @ www.tprfn.net or if you need additional assistance we also offer the following:

Contact Us Form: https://www.tprfn.net/contact-us

Groups.io: https://groups.io/g/Packet-Radio-RF-Forwarding

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/rfpacket/

  • The network also holds a monthly net, The Packet Radio Bulletin Net or PKTNET. The purpose is to continually check radio circuits across the US and to engage and encourage operators to practice their skills passing digital traffic.

TPRFN Partners:

The Future of Emergency Communications:

While commercial networks are constantly improving their resilience, the inherent vulnerabilities of centralized infrastructure will always exist. The TPRFN, by building a decentralized and robust communication network, provides a critical layer of redundancy and a vital alternative when all else fails. As more amateur radio operators contribute to the expansion and maintenance of the TPRFN, its capacity to serve as a reliable lifeline in times of emergency will only grow, strengthening community resilience and improving disaster response capabilities across the nation.

For Additional Network Information:

See us on our website at www.tprfn.net

Winlink and TPRFN

As mentioned earlier Winlink offers a very useful platform to the Amateur Community and like all the other digital platforms it has its limitations. The overwhelming dependency on the internet is by far the main reason that TPRFN went with the proven AX.25 Packet Radio technology. TPRFN does recognize the importance of the Winlink Network and is why we offer it as an additional network service!

Thank you to the reviewers of this article:
Tom Costello KC3TMT
Steve Stroh N8GNJ