Will there ever be a native Linux version of VarAC?
I get this question quite often, and the short answer is:
Never say never, but realistically, no.
Here’s why:
The VARA Modem itself is Windows-based – Even if VarAC were ported to Linux, you’d still need a Windows machine to run the VARA modem. That defeats the purpose.
Linux compatibility via WINE – You can already run VarAC and VARA on Linux using WINE, even on a Raspberry Pi. Here's just one example: https://dl1gkk.com/winlink-express-varac-and-vara-modem-on-a-raspberry-pi-5/
Massive codebase & maintenance – VarAC's code is huge. Rewriting it for Linux would take an enormous effort, and maintaining two codebases for a relatively small Linux user base (~15%) isn't practical.
Bottom line
Considering all three points—especially #1 and #2—creating a native Linux version simply doesn’t make sense. Maybe that will change someday if VARA offers a linux version or when I have more time and fewer tasks on my to-do list, but for now, the cost-to-benefit ratio just isn’t there.
73s,
Irad 4Z1AC
Excellent explanation. Thank you for bring full understanding. 73, Rory
As always, well most of the time, you are right Irad. VarAC/VARA can already run almost perfectly in a Raspberry Pi or other LINUX PC and for home use, if one uses a Raspberry Pi or any LINUX PC as his/her Desktop, this is a very good solution. Not so good for portable VarAC where unless you use a LINUX Laptop, and instead you use a Raspberry Pi you need too many extra wires, an extra battery to power the Raspberry Pi and an extra Monitor with extra Wires and extra Battery to power the Monitor or an extra computer/laptop/ipad/android phone so you can view the Raspberry Pi using VNC!
73 SV1UY
Thank you Irad. I understand. I try to use Linux as much as i can.
73, Denis
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