Participants are discovering new tools and techniques for communicating across Pierce County.
The Net started by focusing on using two features of VARA-FM, ‘ping’ and ‘auto tune’, to test reachability between digital stations. Our next step was to explore the simple, but powerful VARA CHAT application that supports one-to-many broadcast messages using VARA-FM. Net participants have expanded their repertoire of cool tricks by using the digipeater function of VARA-FM and broadcast messaging of VARA CHAT to participate in group chats over the air.
The use of Zoom has also been a big plus. It enables everyone to watch both the sending and receiving-side of a conversation. Zoom has also made it easier to resolve software configuration issues and explore ‘what if we try…?’ questions in real time. Combining a video call with over-the-air experimentation has accelerated everyone’s learning.
Each week, net participants decide where we go next based on group consensus. For September, we’re looking at standing up several full-time VARA-FM digipeaters to enable ‘free play’ on 144.950 MHz outside of the Weekly Digital Net sessions on Tuesday nights. Look for a growing list of test stations to be posted here. For now, you can start by pinging W7GTM and W7GTM-R (digipeater) on 144.950. We’re also going to begin exploring the more comprehensive VarAC program (by 4Z1AC.)
Come join us!
When & Where
Every Tuesday evening at 20:00 local (8:00 PM PDT), immediately following the regular weekly District 5 voice net.
Primary frequency: 144.9500 MHz FM (This is a designated digital frequency in the WWARA band plan and serves as the calling frequency for VarAC on VARA-FM.)
Net Control Station will operate from the Zoom meeting for coordination, demos, and support.
Zoom Meeting Details:
- Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87847957855?pwd=rF7Bce5YgXyVWvbuGrjFRR0zpvk8G4.1
- Meeting ID: 878 4795 7855
- Passcode: 309293
Add to your calendar: Download the iCalendar (.ics) file here: Weekly Digital Net ICS
More Information & Goals
The weekly digital net is intentionally low-pressure and welcoming. Our broader objectives include:
- Building operator proficiency across multiple platforms
- Identifying the most reliable modes for District 5’s geography and needs
- Testing our ability to broadcast important updates, weather information, resource requests, and SITREPs to ARES members quickly and accurately
- Creating a regular training rhythm that integrates with our overall emergency preparedness program
Even if you can’t transmit every week, listening in and participating via Zoom is highly encouraged. Many participants will be learning right alongside you.
Getting Started
If you’re new to digital modes, here are quick next steps:
- Join the Zoom meeting on Tuesday evening
- Listen on 144.9500 FM
- Download and familiarize yourself with the software being featured that week (links and setup tips will be shared in the Zoom chat)
- Reach out to Net Control with any questions
We look forward to seeing many District 5 members — and guests from neighboring areas — on the air and online. Together we’ll strengthen our digital communications capability and be better prepared to serve our communities when it matters most.
73 de District 5 ARES Leadership Weekly Digital Net – Starting August 4, 2026
