See Phil's pointer to KA9Q resources for more information. Both efforts adapted existing IP gateway hardware and software to the task. Their work inspired me to create an Internet software package specifically designed for amateur packet radio use, running on hardware readily available to the average ham, and freely available in source form for study and experimentation. This software has now gained considerable operational experience. The key to the success of Amateur Packet Radio lies in applications of the technology.
Applications essentially drive the development of protocols and networks.
This network used 9600bps links over 440MHz radio channels and 1200bps AX.25 links over 144MHz radio channels. In the late 1980's and early 1990's this became popular and led to the linking of Amateur Radio packet communities via the Internet. Some Amateur Radio Operator operators have placed various gateways on the Internet for ampr.org hosts and Internet hosts to exchange e-mail. Over time Amateir Radio packet satellites may provide the type of worldwide connectivity needed to link across the United States and between the US and other nations. Fox, T., ed.