Winlink Wednesday

Why should you participate?

Ham radio operators should participate in #WinlinkWednesday to enhance their proficiency with the Winlink global radio email system, which is vital for emergency communications. – Matt, K0LWC

Winlink Wednesday

Sign Up for Minnesota Ham Radio Winlink Wednesday—Connect, and Enhance Your Skills!

Join us for Minnesota Ham Radio Winlink Wednesday—a weekly event that brings together amateur radio enthusiasts from across the state! Enhance your communication skills, practice using the Winlink global email system, and stay prepared for emergency situations where traditional networks may fail. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or just getting started, this is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow hams, share knowledge, and contribute to Minnesota’s resilient amateur radio communication network. Don’t miss out—sign up today and become an integral part of our thriving community!

Subscribe today!

Sign up today to join the Minnesota Ham Radio Winlink Wednesday distribution list. We’ll add you to our mailing list and you’ll begin receiving emails on Wednesday’s.

What happens after you sign up for Winlink Wednesday

After signing up using the form above, you’ll begin receiving Winlink emails every Wednesday as part of the Minnesota Ham Radio Winlink Wednesday Net. These weekly emails are your invitation to participate and stay engaged with our community. Your Winlink Wednesday message can be about anything. Most users share their recent ham radio projects/adventures along with personal updates. When you receive the email, simply use the ‘Reply All’ function to check in to the net. This ensures your response reaches all net participants, fostering a connected and collaborative environment. Regular check-ins not only keep you active but also help strengthen our collective communication skills—so don’t forget to reply all each Wednesday!

Get More Information

Quick links for Winlink

Winlink Book of Knowledge

Get more detailed information on Winlink

Download Winlink Express client

Download the recommended Winlink software

Live Winlink System Information

Check the status of the Winlink network

Winlink Frequently Asked Questions

Winlink is a global radio email system that allows amateur radio operators to send and receive emails over radio frequencies instead of the internet. It’s particularly useful in situations where traditional communication infrastructures are unavailable, such as during natural disasters or in remote areas. The system works by connecting your radio equipment to a computer running Winlink software (like Winlink Express). When you compose an email, the software encodes the message and transmits it via radio waves to a Winlink Radio Message Server (RMS). The RMS then forwards the email to the internet or directly to another radio operator, depending on the recipient’s address.

To use Winlink, you’ll need the following equipment:


Amateur Radio License: A valid amateur radio license appropriate for the frequencies you’ll be using (e.g., Technician, General, or Extra class in the U.S.).

Radio Transceiver: A VHF/UHF or HF transceiver capable of operating on the frequencies used by Winlink. The is most commonly HF or VHF.

Computer or Laptop: A device to run the Winlink software. (Winlink Express)

Interface Device: A sound card interface or Terminal Node Controller (TNC) to connect your radio to your computer. Many newer ham radios have built-in sound card interfaces that connect via USB. If you have an older radio you may need a sound card interface.

Cables and Antenna: Appropriate cables to connect your radio to your computer and an antenna suitable for the frequencies you’ll be operating on.

Setting up Winlink involves several steps:

  1. Download and Install Winlink Express: Visit the official Winlink website to download the latest version of Winlink Express.
  2. Create a Winlink Account: Open the software and register using your amateur radio callsign.
  3. Configure Station Settings: Enter your station details, including callsign, grid square, and contact information.
  4. Set Up Connection Types: Configure Winlink Express for the mode you’ll be using (e.g., Packet, VARA HF, PACTOR, etc.)
  5. Configure Hardware Interfaces: Set up the communication parameters between your computer and radio, such as COM ports and baud rates.

Detailed guides and tutorials are available within the software’s help section and on the Winlink website.

Winlink is not limited to emergency communications; it can be used for general messaging as long as it complies with amateur radio regulations. Operators use it for various purposes, including: routine messaging, position reporting, weather updates and event coordination.

However, all communications must be non-commercial in nature and are all public. There is absolutley no expectation of privacy when communciating via Winlink.