Recently, I discovered that Winlink2000 can use VARA HF/FM modems to directly communicate with radio stations via the sound card, without needing a dedicated PACTOR modem.
Several domestic HAMs have successfully connected to the WL2K station using VARA HF.
Asian station supporting VARA HF: WL2K (operated by JH1YNW)(PM95UM), BX2AI(PL05SA)DV1FIF(PK04OP)
Vara Modem download (select VARA HF) https://rosmodem.wordpress.com/
Baidu Netdisk link: https://pan.baidu.com/s/1mi8dB9gORRrqmFDxHqJ7sQ?pwd=fy6f Extraction code: fy6f
Using VARA for Winlink communication
The configuration is excellent. Open the VARA HF program (VARA.exe), select both public and private networks in the firewall, and click on the second option in the "Settings" area in the upper left corner to configure the sound card device. To start using it, choose either Vara HF Winlink (to connect to WL2K station) or Vara HF P2P (to connect to a regular amateur radio station) within Winlink Express.
VARA Chat
The interface program for communicating using VARA HF/FM/SAT allows the transmission of text (without specific targeting, requires opening the KISS port on the modem) and files (requires connection to the other radio station).
VARA Terminal
BBS's VARA dumb terminal
VARA HF
The most important modem, for shortwave and other frequency bands. The free version has a maximum rate of 175 bps. The free version has time limits for Winlink communication and cannot enable transmission compression.
VARA FM
The fastest modem, for VHF/UHF and higher/lower frequency bands under FM modulation or other modulation schemes. The free version has a maximum rate of 1188 bps. The free version cannot connect to digital relays and cannot enable transmission compression.
VARA SAT
A modulator/demodulator used for communication on the QO-100 satellite. The free version has a maximum rate of 175 bps. The free version has time limits for Winlink communication and cannot enable transmission compression. (Why is it similar to VARA HF?)
The VARA full series (VARA HF/FM/SAT) sells for $69, unlocking all restrictions and providing permanent validity.