Linux and ham radio go together very well. They share much of the same spirit of freedom, independence, and "do it yourself" attitude. Perhaps not surprisingly, there is a great deal of radio-related software available for Linux, much of it high quality, FreeSoftware, and free of charge. Some of this software is interesting even to non-hams - satellite tracking programs, for instance, or PC programs for listening to special modes, or for receiving WEFAX (weather faxes). And Linux offers a great deal of engineering-related software, such as circuit-design and diagramming programs.

Linux is beginning to get broader attention in the amateur radio community. See, for instance, "Digital Dimension", March 2004 QST, where Stan Horpeza WA1LOU writes, "In the days that followed the posting of my Linux Surfin' columns, I received more mail than about anything I've written in over a quarter of a century."

GNHLUG usually has a booth at Hosstraders Hamfest, to spread the word about Linux and GNHLUG, and (when possible) to demonstrate radio-related Linux software. We were there again at the Fall 2003 Hosstraders, in our usual spot. We sold lots of Linux CDs, talked to a lot of people, and hopefully got some new people interested in Linux and/or GNHLUG. Thanks to everyone who helped out.

If you were at Hosstraders, got a CD or talked to a GNHLUG member, and have questions, or need help, please consider joining one of our MailingLists (the "discuss" list is an open forum, suitable for asking questions), or perhaps attending one of the meetings held by OurChapters.

More information on radio-related software for Linux is available at many sites on the Web, including:

• http://radio.linux.org.au (this is the website we print out and bring with us to Hosstraders)
• http://www.n9nu.net/linux/linux.php (an extensive and personal listing, with an emphasis on Mandrake)
• http://debianham.sunsite.dk (whence may be obtained Debian-Ham, a bootable-floppy Linux counterpart to K1EA's well-known CT Windows logging program)