Configuring a winlink gateway using an IC-7300 for both Pactor and VARA HF simultaneously

[kb5udf]

My initial googling yielded inconsistent results on whether this was possible. Most users said no, but the website of a company that makes a device to do this for radios that can not do it says that the IC-7300 can. I quote from masterscommunications:

Many radios already have one built-in such as the ICOM IC-7300 or the Kenwood TS-590S, and can handle both Pactor via an external modem, and VARA from the radio's internal soundcard, and use both together with no additional hardware.

So I ask what is the truth of the matter. Can a stock IC-7300 working as a winlink/rms gateway listen for both PACTOR and VARA HF connections at the same time, without additional hardware? If yes, how. If no, but it is possible with additional hardware, what hardware and configuration?

Thanks in advance
'73

 

[AK9R]

First off, Masters Communications is top-notch. They build good equipment and know their stuff. They have a group on Groups.io. If you buy one of their devices, I suggest you join that group as they have good tech support there.

I suspect that what they are talking about is connecting the Pactor modem to the ACC jack on the radio while also running Vara HF using the radio's internal USB sound card. While the hardware may be connected simultaneously, I don't think you can actually transmit/receive data using both modes simultaneously. For one, both modes would have to be on the same frequency while using both modes. And, there may be some "who's in charge" issues regarding PTT.

Also, the only modems available for Pactor IV are from SCS in Germany. Pactor IV is a proprietary mode as far as I know.

As a bit of semi-related background, I run a Winlink RMS Packet station using a Masters DRA-?? (I forget exactly which model and it's located about 10 miles from me right now). The computer is running Winlink RMS Packet, Vara FM, and UZ7HO Soundmodem. Users can connect using either Vara FM or AX.25 packet. But, not simultaneously. If someone is connected using packet, the station ignores incoming Vara connection requests and vice versa.