Overview
AEA PC-PAKRATT was a DOS-based terminal and communications control software package developed by Advanced Electronic Applications (AEA) for use with their packet radio and digital communications controllers, particularly the PK-232 and PK-87 Terminal Node Controllers (TNCs).
The software transformed an IBM PC compatible computer into a complete digital communications workstation capable of operating:
- Packet radio
- RTTY
- AMTOR
- CW
- ASCII communications
- Fax reception (with supported hardware)
PC-PAKRATT became popular among amateur radio operators during the late 1980s and early 1990s as packet radio and digital HF communications rapidly expanded.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Advanced Electronic Applications (AEA) |
| Product Name | PC-PAKRATT |
| Type | Terminal communications software |
| Platform | IBM PC and compatibles |
| Operating System | MS-DOS / PC-DOS |
| Primary Hardware Support | AEA PK-232, PK-87 |
| Interface | RS-232 serial |
| Storage Media | 5.25-inch floppy disk |
| Required Memory | 320 KB minimum |
| Supported Modes | Packet, RTTY, AMTOR, CW, ASCII |
| Era | Late 1980s to early 1990s |
Physical Description
PC-PAKRATT was distributed on floppy disks with a printed user manual. The software used a text-based DOS interface with multiple operating windows, keyboard command shortcuts, file transfer functions, and integrated message handling.
The program worked in conjunction with AEA TNC hardware connected through a serial port.
History
During the 1980s, AEA became one of the leading manufacturers of amateur radio digital communications hardware. The PK-232 TNC became especially successful because it combined multiple digital modes into a single unit.
PC-PAKRATT was developed to simplify operation of these advanced controllers by replacing difficult command-line interaction with a more user-friendly software interface.
Later Windows-based versions were released as:
- PC PakRatt for Windows
- PPWIN (PC PakRatt for Windows 2.x)
Following AEA’s closure in 1996, the digital product line was acquired by Timewave Technology, which continued support and development for many years afterward. (timewave.com)
References
- PC-PAKRATT User Manual PDF
Original PC-PAKRATT user manual covering installation, operation, and system requirements. - Timewave PC PakRatt Information
Historical information on later Windows-based PakRatt software and Timewave support. - PK-232 Upgrade Guide and Product History
Historical overview of the PK-232, AEA, and Timewave product evolution. - PC PakRatt for Windows Manual PDF
Documentation for the Windows-based successor to the original DOS software. - Packet-Radio.net PC-Pakratt Archive
Software archive and historical download information for PC-PAKRATT.