What is Winlink and Why You Should Learn It Now

In a disaster, reliable communication is critical — and not just voice. Text-based messages like email can carry medical data, resource requests, status updates, and more. Enter Winlink: a global messaging system that uses ham radio frequencies to send and receive emails without internet access. It’s trusted by organizations like ARES, RACES, MARS, and even FEMA — and if you’re a ham operator serious about emergency prep, you should learn it now.

📡 What is Winlink?

Winlink Global Radio Email is a system that lets amateur radio operators send standard emails over HF (high-frequency) and VHF/UHF radio using digital modes. It works even when the power is out, the internet is down, or cell towers are jammed.

Unlike APRS, which is limited to short messages and position beacons, Winlink supports longer emails, file attachments, and standard email formatting. It’s ideal for emergency coordination, tactical messages, and communicating with non-hams during a crisis.

🧰 What You Need to Use Winlink

Getting started with Winlink doesn’t have to be expensive. Here’s what you need:

• Windows Laptop or Tablet with Winlink Express software
• HF Transceiver – e.g., Yaesu FT-891
• Sound Card Interface like the Tigertronics SignaLink USB
• Coax, Power Source, Antenna (see our HF antenna guide)
• Optional: USB GPS if mobile station location data is required

For VHF/UHF use, you can connect to nearby RMS gateways using a simple TNC like the Mobilinkd TNC3 and HT radio, although HF provides far better coverage in rural or grid-down conditions.

📬 How Winlink Works (The Basics)

Here’s a simplified breakdown:

1. You compose an email in the Winlink Express client.
2. Winlink connects to an RMS (Radio Message Server) gateway via HF or VHF/UHF.
3. The gateway forwards your message over the internet to the recipient.
4. If the internet is down, peer-to-peer (P2P) mode allows direct radio-to-radio messaging.

When sending via HF, you’ll need to know the current active Winlink gateways and their frequencies. These are published on the Winlink site or in your software’s channel selection tool.

🎯 Why Winlink Matters for Emergency Comms

• No Internet Required: Send and receive email in the middle of nowhere.
• Works Over Long Distances: Especially valuable during disasters or evacuations.
• Interoperability: Communicate with hospitals, EOCs, shelters, and NGOs.
• Message Forms: Winlink supports ICS-213, radiograms, and hospital forms out-of-the-box.

Emergency teams use Winlink to send situation reports, damage assessments, and shelter needs — all from the field.

💡 Practical Use Cases

• Storm deployment: Send health/welfare traffic or weather updates from the field.
• Wildfire evacuation: Email maps or instructions to remote shelters.
• Search and rescue: Coordinate from off-grid locations with no voice coverage.
• Preppers: Establish long-haul comms with family or other groups during infrastructure collapse.

📦 Helpful Gear and Links

• SignaLink USB Sound Card
• Mobilinkd TNC3
• Yaesu FT-891 HF Radio
• Go-Kit Setup Guide

🔧 Getting Started Fast

1. Download and install Winlink Express
2. Register for a Winlink account (you must send your first message from a radio-connected station)
3. Connect your radio and interface
4. Use the software’s channel list to find a reachable RMS gateway
5. Practice sending test messages before the next emergency

🧭 Final Thoughts

Winlink isn’t just a cool digital tool — it’s a lifeline. It turns your radio into a field email terminal capable of relaying life-saving information anywhere on the planet. If you’re building out your emergency communication plan, there’s no excuse not to add Winlink to your toolkit.

Start small, get familiar with the software, and don’t wait until a crisis to figure it out. Pair it with a portable HF antenna from our antenna guide and you’ll be well ahead of the game.

73 — Daniel (KI5QHC)