The XMLog Packet window supports two types of connections. You can access your local TNC using a serial port (e.g. COM1) or you can access the Internet. This section covers Internet connections, for information on TNC ports see Comm Ports and TNCs.
To reach an Internet PacketCluster node you need to know its address. Typical addresses consist of four numbers separated by periods (123.456.78.90) or words separated by periods (dx.cluster.net).
Here are some Internet PacketCluster addresses (04/09/10):
Please remember that Internet cluster addresses are constantly changing and that these examples may be out of date. One way to find new node addresses is to use your favorite Internet search engine and look for Internet and PacketCluster or DX Cluster. I've found directories of Internet cluster nodes at:
PacketCluster nodes require you to log on using your callsign as a user-id and some also require a password. If this is the first time you've used the node you may be prompted for your QTH, etc.
Some Internet addresses also require a port number - just include it after the address, for example:
To enable Internet connections:
Once the Packet Window is open, you can connect to a new address by choosing Connect/Start Node File or Connect/Internet Connect.
Note that when you select a node file it should be appropriate for the current port type. In other words don't use an Internet node file if you're currently connected using your TNC port or vice versa.
For an example of a node file used to connect to an Internet PacketCluster node see Node Commands.
When trying to make an Internet connection you may receive a cryptic error. These errors are returned to in response to various problems outside of XMLog's control. Here's some of the most common messages.