W4PC
QRZ Member
CSS releases EmComm Ops!
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EmComm Ops Radio Software Now Available
Creative Services Software Releases New Addition to
Its Radio Operations Center Software Suite for Packet Radio
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Muscle Shoals, AL, September 30, 2008 —Creative Services
Software, Inc. (CSS) today announced the availability of EmComm Ops™, a new
software solution for packet radio operations. Designed primarily for emergency
radio communications, EmComm Ops helps amateur (Ham), commercial and MARS radio
operators connect to, access, integrate and operate packet radio stations with
a Windows PC or laptop from a fixed station or in the field. EmComm Ops is the
first addition to CSS’ recently-rebranded Radio Operations Center™ (ROC)
product line.
The just-released version of EmComm Ops supports Kantronics and Timewave/AEA
TNCs. A version for MFJ TNCs is now in beta testing and is available for
pre-order or trial download. The pending release of EmComm Ops for MFJ hardware
is in response to the recent re-introduction of TNC solutions by MFJ
Enterprises.
At an introductory price of $29.95, EmComm Ops offers radio operators an
efficient and affordable entry into advanced software-enhanced packet and radio
control. For operators who require support beyond packet radio, CSS’ ROC
Digital Desktop™ ($99.95) offers a step up that supports the classic HF digital
modes, as well as support for soundcard-based radio modes including PSK-31 and
MT-63.
EmComm Ops allows users to control radios, TNCs, rotors, and to access logging
applications, call books and more — all from within a single Microsoft Windows
application. Unlike MS-DOS or Windows 3.1-based radio software, EmComm Ops is a
32-bit Windows application designed from the ground up for Windows 2000, XP and
Vista, offering users true multitasking, seamless integration of other radio or
PC productivity tools, and the ability to take full advantage of the speed and
processing power of the latest Windows-based computers. Operators can control
radio transmissions while simultaneously running logging programs, call book
programs or any Windows application (including Microsoft Office).
“True multitasking means that EmComm operators can send and receive packet
communications while simultaneously relaying messages to families and rescue
personnel in e-mail,” said Rick Ruhl, W4PC, CSS president and chief architect
of the company’s software suite. “And in emergency situations where
communications infrastructure has been compromised or conditions limit reliable
radio operation, messages can be noted in a text or Microsoft Word file, then
imported into EmComm Ops to be re-transmitted at a later time when conditions
improve. Operators can also export messages to a file to document
communications. Of course, simple Windows cut-and-paste is also supported.”
EmComm Ops supports emergency operations by accelerating, streamlining and
automating packet radio. Features include:
• One-click access to any data stream, packet mode, radio, TNC and rotor for
quicker response in an emergency.
• Support for multiple packet radio data streams, connection types and
transmit/receive/listen modes. Up to 25 packet conversations and links can be
managed when used with a Kantronics TNC, and up to nine with Timewave/AEA TNCs.
• Built-in and customizable macros that automate common commands.
• Support for dual TNCs, allowing radio amateurs to work in multiple packet
modes simultaneously.
• Multiple monitor windows, including separate windows for network traffic.
• Robust support for packet mailboxes, including point-and-click settings for
multiple TNC start-up/shut-down commands. Operators can manage Packet bulletin
board systems from the TNC, even when the software and computer are shut down.
• Robust file transfer capabilities in ASCII (text) or binary (data) formats,
with an unlimited buffer for ASCII file transfers.
• A built-in mini logging program built on a Microsoft Access database, plus
interoperability with Log Window and DX4Win software.
• Multiple call-book integration.
• Compatibility with over 70 radios from leading manufacturers including ICOM,
Kenwood, Tentec, Yeasu and Alinco.
• Includes an advanced TNC Wizard that accelerates connecting and configuring a
TNC for radio operation.
“EmComm Ops was designed in response to requests from emergency communications
volunteers who need advanced tools that help then set up and operate emergency
radio services quickly, reliably and affordably,” Ruhl said. “It also gives
radio operators who only work in packet mode a streamlined solution specific to
their requirements.”
A free, 30-day trial of EmComm Ops is available now on the CSS Website at
www.cssincorp.com. The purchase of EmComm Ops includes one year of e-mail or
phone technical support, access to the CSS user forum and free maintenance
updates.
About the Radio Operations Center
The Radio Operations Center software suite from CSS is the only amateur and
commercial radio software solution that combines the integration, automation
and multitasking capabilities of Microsoft® Windows with the flexibility and
control to operate on multiple TNC, soundcard and radio hardware in all the
digital modes. The software formerly known as PKTerm™ (for Timewave/AEA TNCs)
and PacTerm™ (for Kantronics TNCs) are now called ROC Digital Desktop™. Other
Radio Operations Center products include EmComm Ops, Marine Radio Ops and
Weather Ops. All CSS products are available for purchase online at
www.cssincorp.com, at many ham radio retailers and through several amateur
radio equipment catalogs.
About CSS
CSS is a privately held software and technology consulting company specializing
in software connectivity for commercial and amateur radio operators; office
automation and network management solutions for business; and custom software
development for specialized Web and wireless applications.
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Creative Services Software, the CSS logo, Radio Operations Center, ROC, ROC
Digital Desktop, EmComm Ops and PKTerm are trademarks of Creative Services
Software, Inc. PacTerm is a trademark of Kantronics used with the permission of
the trademark owner. All other trademarks or registered trademarks are the
property of their respective holders. All rights reserved.
