Running VARA on Linux has always meant fighting with Wine, 32 bit libraries, and audio setups that occasionally break after an update. Xara changes that. Xara is a free, open source, VARA compatible HF and FM modem built natively for Linux, and in this video I walk you through installing it on Linux Mint from start to finish, then put it to work connecting to a real VARA Winlink gateway on the air.
We start by installing the required dependencies (libpulse-dev and libasound2-dev) and getting the Rust toolchain set up so cargo can build and install Xara directly from GitHub. From there I show you where to place the Xara config file and exactly what to put in it, including your callsign, HF bandwidth (500, 2300, or 2750) or FM narrow and wide mode, ALSA or PulseAudio audio settings, capture and playback devices, and radio and PTT configuration.
Xara supports several PTT methods including RTS and DTR on a serial port, CM108 and CM119 HID GPIO (common on Digirig style and USB sound card interfaces), and Hamlib rigctld CAT control. You can also fine tune PTT lead time, tail time, and maximum transmit time, along with TX drive level.
Because Xara uses the standard VARA TCP command and KISS ports, it works with the Winlink client software you already know. To prove it, I finish with a live demo connecting to a VARA Winlink RMS gateway and passing traffic, all without Windows or Wine.
Xara also includes an optional web UI for configuration and management, FM digipeating support, and a companion tool called xara-monitor that passively listens to VARA HF traffic between other stations.
If you’re an EmComm or ARES operator, a Linux user, or someone who wants a cleaner Winlink setup for portable and off grid operating, this is worth a look.
Xara on GitHub: https://github.com/x0rro/xara
Xara is an independent project and is not affiliated with the developer of VARA. Please support the original VARA developer if VARA is part of your station.
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