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or "Why doesn't Control-C work?"
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Why use HOST mode? Using the Kantronics KAM as an example, simultaneous connections can be established on several VHF streams AND on an HF non-packet mode. On all TNC models, data typed in a window is transmitted on the Port/Stream the window represents. Port/Stream selection is automatic.
After migrating to software (such as RDCP/Mac) that uses the HOST mode in the TNC, the most difficult adjustment is in the method of controlling the TNC. We all become familiar to the old "Control-C" and then the "cmd:" prompt. Neither exists in the TNC HOST mode, so the first little task it to forget about Control-C.
The next adjustment is to forget about the stream switch sequence such as "~A".
In HOST mode everything is controlled by menus, dialogs, buttons, command key shortcuts and/or window positions.
In RDCP/Mac the software implements HOST mode in the TNC when starting. When the software is "Quit", the TNC is returned to TERMINAL mode.
Note: You can start the software in TERMINAL mode by holding the option key down when launching. The only window that will appear is the TNC Window and you can perform the old and forgotton Control-C functions in that location.
In RDCP/Mac we wanted (needed) a "window" to the TNC apart from the communications windows. This window, "TNC Window" is always open and provides a location where results from commands to the TNC are displayed.
There are several methods to issue commands to the TNC. The Tool Strip below is one method. Others are menu items such as the "Command" item in the "Control" menu, and the Command+K sequence. (Think of Command+K as the old Control-C if you like.)
In HOST mode, no communication occurs on Stream 0 (zero) EXCEPT if you use a KAM where HF non-packet communication is always on Port 2, Stream 0 (zero) and the KAM'98 uses Port 1, Stream 0. In packet with a KAM on HF, the same non-communication (monitor only) on Stream 0 applies. To initiate a new packet connection, a new connection stream window (other than stream 0) must be opened, or a currently non-connected window must be selected.
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New connection stream window. |
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Brings TNC Window to front. (The "T" button) |
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Displays the TNC Command dialog. Allows entry of commands to control the TNC. Same as Command+K |
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Disconnects current connection/link for the top window. Same as Command+D |
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Displays Connect/Link dialog. Depending on mode. Port used for connection/link attempt depends on the top window. Same as Command+L |
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This small area contains the first characters of the instance identification and an arrow that, when clicked, will expand the tool bar downward and display additional options. |
As an example, we want to check the stations heard. (MH L):
First we either press the "T" button or select the "TNC Window" from the "Windows" menu. The dialog below appears and we can enter "MH L" or select from the drop down menu. Once our command is entered press return or click "Send Cmd:"
The software sends the command request to the TNC and the results appear as below in the TNC Window.
Now to make a connection or link. As an example, we select the window Port 2, Stream A. This selects an HF packet port and stream.
Pressing the "Connect" button or the "Connect/Link" menu item or Command+L will display the "Connect/Link:" dialog as below. We enter the call of the station we desire and hit return or press OK. (An option is to select one of our entries in the "Connection Book" which appears in the bottom portion of the dialog.) The TNC and transmitter begin the connect sequence.
If the called station responds, the status area of the Tool/Control strip will display "Connected to xxxxx", the call of the linked station will appear on the window (next to the "Auto Save Receive" checkbox) and the window title will change to reflect the linked call.
When finished with the link, we push the "Disconnect" button or select the "Disconnect" menu item or press Command+D to close the connection.
Note the window samples above are from a machine running MacOS 8. Under 7.5.x, the windows and dialogs appear differently.
This page last modified 20-Mar-99