> I got interest with this list because I and a friend have thought
> of a possible way to connect our two linux boxes via radio
> communication, as we are quite far away one to the other to do it
> with usual ethernet cable (in the same city, however).
That's what got me interested in Amateur Radio in the first place,
some 12 years ago...and there's so much to the hobby that one can
always find a niche where one can "make a difference"...
> I came to see a few things about ham and AX-25... Yet before
> spending huge time with it, I would like to know...
> whether this is possible...
Most certainly - that's what Packet Radio was developed for in the
first place...
> ...if ever there is no troubles in finding a frequence for our
> private exchange that will not disturb others...
Providing you keep clear of the inter-bbs forwarding frequencies, you
shouldn't have any problems with finding frequencies...
> what the transfer rate, and so on.
Depends how much you're prepared to spend on equipment...costs listed
in UK currency, translate to your favourite currency as appropriate...
1. With basic equipment and an el-cheapo transceiver, it's
quite possible to get online with a 1,200 Baud packet radio
link for less than UKP 25. In fact, my own setup once consisted
of a BayCom Packet Modem (cost UKP 5) connected to a second hand
Yaesu FT207 handheld (obtained for UKP 10 from a TELEPHONE
dealer), and an IBM PC/XT clone bought second hand for UKP 75,
so the complete setup only came to UKP 90.
2. With more advanced equipment and a modern transceiver, plus a
bit of technical know-how (or a friendly local ham willing to
do the relevant surgery), links at 19,200 Baud are available.
A friend of mine set up a 9,600 Baud link from scratch, with an
IBM Clone running a 386dx/40 processor, a kit-built TNC and a
converted PMR radio dedicated to the job, and tells me it all
cost just UKP 700.
3. With more specialist techniques and home-brew equipment, links
at 500 Kilobaud or above are possible. I can't advise on the
likely prices here as I've no knowledge thereof, only that I'm
aware of links running at these sort of speeds.
Basically, it's what you make of it.
> I wish also I knew what *you* are using 'amateur radio' for? Is
> that the same, plain IP communication?
It can be, but doesn't have to be...
> I am sorry for the quite dumb question.
Don't worry, we were all newbies once...
Best wishes from Riley GM7GOD / KB8PPG