Important: This isn't the documentation or code that Tadd KA2DEW supervises. That code is at https://tarpn.net/ Technical support is available for the tarpn.net code and documentation at tarpn@groups.io.
A modern, centralized repository for building TARPN (Terrestrial Amateur Radio Packet Network) nodes.
Note: Documentation is actively being developed. Core scripts and STL files are ready for use. Some documentation pages contain placeholder content marked "Documentation In Progress".
TARPN is an off-grid amateur radio social network that operates entirely over ham radio infrastructure - no internet required. It enables multi-state email, live chat, and social interaction using dedicated point-to-point VHF/UHF radio links.
Key Features:
- 100% ham operator controlled infrastructure
- Grid-independent (survives internet/cellular outages)
- Low cost (~$500-650 for complete dual-port node)
- Educational (teaches networking, radio, and digital communications)
| Component | Qty | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi 4B (1GB+) | 1 | $45 |
| 16GB micro SD (Class 10) | 1 | $8 |
| NinoTNC N9600A | 2 | $80-140 |
| VHF/UHF Radio (surplus) | 2 | $100 |
| 13.8V Power Supply | 1 | $50-100 |
| Antennas | 2 | $140 |
| 3D Printed Enclosure | 1 | $20 |
See hardware/bom/ for complete bill of materials with links.
# Download and run the installer
curl -sSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/dpaschal/tarpn-node/main/scripts/install.sh | bashOr clone and run locally:
git clone https://github.com/dpaschal/tarpn-node.git
cd tarpn-node
./scripts/install.shSTL files for the single-wide nodebox are in hardware/enclosure/stl/.
Print Settings:
- Material: PLA or PETG
- Layer Height: 0.2mm
- Infill: 20-30%
- Supports: As needed per part
See docs/hardware/enclosure/ for assembly instructions.
Full documentation available at: https://dpaschal.github.io/tarpn-node
tarpn-node/
├── docs/ # MkDocs documentation
├── hardware/
│ ├── enclosure/stl/ # 3D print files
│ ├── wiring/ # Wiring diagrams
│ └── bom/ # Bill of materials
├── scripts/ # Installation and management scripts
├── config/ # Configuration templates
├── image/ # SD card image build system
└── tests/ # Automated tests
After installation, use the tarpn command:
tarpn # Show status
tarpn config # Configure node
tarpn service start # Start background service
tarpn home start # Start web interface
tarpn update # Update TARPN software
tarpn backup # Backup configuration
tarpn test # Test node operation- NCPACKET (NC Area): ncpacket@groups.io
- TARPN Technical: tarpn@groups.io
- Issues: GitHub Issues
- TARPN Project: Tadd Torborg (KA2DEW) - tarpn.net
- LinBPQ: John Wiseman (G8BPQ) - g8bpq/LinBPQ
- NinoTNC: Nino Carrillo (KK4HEJ)
- Enclosure Design: TARPN Community
MIT License - See LICENSE for details.
This repository modernizes and centralizes the TARPN node build process, previously scattered across multiple websites and scripts.