Tips

A VARA modem can operate in either Ready-To-Connect  mode or Listening (Monitoring)  mode. If you want to stay available for incoming connections while also monitoring the frequency for ongoing VARA activity (such as active VARA QSOs), you’ll need to run a separate VARA modem instance in Monitor  mode. Want to know how? Open the VarAC Settings , go to the “VARA”  tab, and under “VARA Monitor Path” , click the small (?)  icon for more information. I’ve heard some operators say

If you’re not the type who likes constant beaconing but still want to send a one-time beacon to let everyone know you’re around, simply RIGHT-CLICK the Beacon button, and VarAC will fire a single beacon instantly! You can use this feature whether your beaconing is turned off or even between beacon cycles when it's on.

In VarAC, there are two types of beacons: Standard  and Advanced . A Standard Beacon  is a basic signal that announces your presence and includes minimal information, making it highly robust—even at very weak signal levels (down to -22 dB). An Advanced Beacon , on the other hand : Uses the AX25-KISS protocol (similar to broadcasts) Operates at SL2 (Speed Level 2), allowing more data to be sent. Can still be decoded at -18/-19 dB (compared to -22 dB for standard beacons). Incl

Imagine this: Your internet is down, but you need to send a critical email. No problem! You hop on the CF and—BAM!—you spot multiple stations broadcasting in their beacon that they operate an email gateway. You compose a VMail, connect, relay, and receive a confirmation that your email has been delivered. This is how it works: For Email gateway operator: If you want to run a VMail gateway, here’s what you’ll need to do: Set up an SMTP email account. You can use Gmail or any o

Since VarAC V10, you can invite your QSO partner to play a game. We have introduced with two games, with more to come: Tic Tac Toe Connect Four Once you've connected with someone and moved off the calling frequency, you can send your QSO partner a HamPlay invitation. They can choose to accept or decline, and if accepted, the fun begins! VarAC will guide you through the game, complete with real-time updates and cool sound effects. Not into games on the radio? No problem! You c