Workflow step 4: HF & message traffic · Incident workspace

HF RMS gateway snapshot for Winlink email — callsign, frequency, mode, band, and grid. Verify live status at winlink.org before operating. Works offline after your first visit.

← Winlink workflow · HF traffic hub

Winlink / RMS Gateway Reference

Winlink is radio email through RMS gateways on HF and VHF. This reference is a planning snapshot of gateways and modes — confirm live frequency, mode, and hours before you call.

Snapshot updated 2026-06-23 · Source: winlink.org RMS Channels

Filter gateways

Band ranges when no gateway answers:

BandFreq (MHz)ModeNotes
80 m3.588–3.600VARA / PACTORNight NVIS paths
40 m7.045–7.074VARA / PACTORRegional day/night
30 m10.147Packet/VARAData-only band
20 m14.095–14.109VARA / PACTORDX / long haul
VHF145.01–145.09PacketLocal RMS packet

Session steps: Winlink workflow · Templates: Winlink message templates

Using Winlink when the internet is down

A Winlink session is: pick a band from propagation or NVIS, choose an RMS gateway from this list, draft a short message (ICS-213 or a Winlink template), connect, send, log the attempt on ICS-214. HF gateways need General or Extra privileges; some VHF packet gateways are reachable on Technician.

East Tennessee operators often try regional HF RMS on 40 m / 80 m NVIS at night and 20 m by day, plus any published VHF gateway. Gateway lists go stale — Winlink Express “Channel Selection” is authoritative when you have a one-time internet fetch; this page is the offline fallback.

Follow the Winlink session workflow. Templates: Winlink templates. VARA notes: VARA HF reference.

See also: Digital emcomm hub

Common questions

What is Winlink?

A worldwide radio email system using HF/VHF RMS gateways — common for emcomm when internet and phone are down.

Do I need an HF license for Winlink?

Yes for HF gateways; VHF Winlink may be available in some areas with appropriate license class and gateway access.

Do I need a special Winlink password?

You register a Winlink account with your amateur callsign. Gateway access on RF does not use your home internet password.

Can I send Winlink without HF?

If a VHF/UHF packet or VARA FM gateway is in range, yes. Many East TN rural properties still need HF NVIS for reliable night traffic.