💻 About (X)NET & DLC7
(X)NET is a multi-protocol packet radio node software (digipeater/router) developed by Jimy, DL1GJI, with documentation by Manfred, DL2GWA. Originally created for the German and European amateur radio community, (X)NET has become one of the most capable AX.25 node systems available, supporting up to 250 simultaneous users and node tables of up to 1000 entries. The software supports AX.25, NET/ROM, and FlexNet routing protocols, as well as AXIP and AXUDP over Ethernet — bridging traditional RF packet radio with modern IP networks.
DLC7 Hardware Platform
The DLC7 (Data Link Controller 7) is a high-performance TNC built around a 32-bit ARM7 microcontroller with 4 MB Flash and 32 MB RAM. Successor to the TNC4e, it features native Ethernet connectivity, two HDLC controllers (up to 19.2 kbps each), and a real-time clock. (X)NET runs natively on the DLC7 as 7NET.APL, delivering throughput of up to 11 kbps at 38.4 kbps link rates — significantly outperforming older Z80-based TNCs.
FlexNet Routing Protocol
FlexNet, developed by Gunter Jost, DK7WJ, is a network-layer routing protocol for AX.25 packet radio. Unlike NET/ROM which uses a separate Layer 3 header, FlexNet embeds all routing information directly in the AX.25 address field. With FlexNet V3.2, header compression reduces the typical 14–70 byte header down to just 7 bytes, effectively doubling link throughput for short frames. FlexNet features automatic route discovery, loop detection, and full compatibility with both AX.25 v1 and v2, making it ideal for TCP/IP operation over packet radio. The Flexnet Destinations link below shows the real-time routing table of this node.
p ! Station Access
Radio access points for the IW2OHX-14 DLC7 (X)NET node
Local Users Access
144.825 1k2 Bd / 433.725 9k6 Bd via IW2OHX-12
HF Users Access
14105 LSB 1700Hz 300Bd AFSK via IW2OHX-15
14102.3 USB Robust Packet via IW2OHX-15
p Info Available on the WEB
Real-time system status and routing information from the (X)NET node