The goal of the IP400 Network Project is to develop a next generation data communications system by Amateur Radio for Amateur Radio. Features include higher speeds (min100 kbps), robust modulation and forward error correction, and the ability to transport widely varying data types, from short text messages, through digital voice and video, including AX.25 and TCP/IP. IP400 is in very active development by the Society.

IP400 arose from the confluence of several trends:

• A new type of Amateur Radio Operator coming into Amateur Radio (generally more technical – example, software developers) that prefer data, VHF / UHF, open source development models, etc.
• Ongoing potential threats to Amateur Radio VHF / UHF spectrum (the old use it or lose it imperative).
• An increase in use of data modes, but using simplex connections, few networks, just simple hubs, like Winlink Radio Message Servers.

Some features of IP400:

• Higher data speed than most Amateur Radio data systems
• Ability to pass data from common Amateur applications
• Simple, lightweight, and extensible protocol

The immediate goal of the project is to release an assembled and tested node that consists of a Raspberry Pi Zero paired with an IP400 Radio board (HAT – Hardware Attached on Top). Volume production of radios will commence after a reasonable testing period.

Following the initial phase of the project will be to produce a higher power node that can be deployed on existing amateur towers, to build an IP400 network that will cover an urban area.

The next phase is the development of a node that will bridge the analog and digital worlds together, offering three different data modes, a compatible mode for an existing TNC, the IP400 network mode, and a high speed modem for linking purposes. This modem will provide speeds in excess of 1Mb/s initially, with an eventual goal of 40Mb/s.