Quick Answer
Ham radios with internet connectivity, known as IoT or IPSC modes, can establish a connection to the internet via satellite, cellular, or other off-grid means, but HF ham radios themselves are not designed for direct internet connectivity.
HF Radio Limitations
HF ham radios operate on a lower frequency band and do not have the capability to directly connect to the internet. However, some ham radio systems can transmit data packets to a satellite or a local network using packet radio protocols such as AX.25 or APRS.
Off-Grid Internet Options for Ham Radios
To connect to the internet while off-grid, ham radio operators can use a variety of techniques. One option is to use a satellite-based communication system such as Iridium or Globalstar, which can transmit data packets to the internet via a satellite relay station. Another option is to use a cellular-based system such as a cellular hotspot or a dedicated wireless modem, which can connect to the internet via a cellular network. For example, the Iridium 9555 satellite phone can send and receive data packets at speeds of up to 2.4 kbps, while a cellular hotspot can connect to the internet at speeds of up to 4G LTE.
IPSC and IoT Modes for Ham Radios
Some modern ham radio systems support IPSC (Internet Protocol Service Center) and IoT (Internet of Things) modes, which allow them to connect to the internet via a satellite or a local network. For example, the Icom IC-9700 transceiver supports IPSC mode, which allows it to connect to the internet via a satellite relay station. Similarly, the Kenwood TH-D74A transceiver supports IoT mode, which allows it to connect to the internet via a local network. These modes typically require a separate data modem or a satellite phone to establish a connection to the internet.
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