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Self-Study for SCCo Packet BBS SysOp

 

Overview

Santa Clara County ARES/RACES maintains multiple JNOS packet BBS servers to provide load balancing, redundancy, backup and training. These servers are configured similarly (except for the obvious IP address and call sign changes), following carefully documented procedures. In this self-study, the SCCo procedures will be used to build a Linux system from the ground up, followed by adding the JNOS BBS server. The result should be a fully functioning system that has all of the features, functionality and security of the other SCCo packet BBS systems. Successful completion is a prerequisite for being considered for an SCCo packet SysOp position.

 

Prerequisites

The following training courses, workshops or self-study programs (including their prerequisites) must be completed before starting this self-study program.

The following SCCo ARES/RACES Credentials are required for completion of this self-study program. This ensures that the indivual has sufficient training, equipment, knowledge and experience to be safely dispatched by county ARES/RACES to work on our BBS systems anywhere in the county.

 

Study Topics

Note: These topics are under development and may change as we learn more from the first people to go through the program.

Technical

A set of SCCo ARES/RACES standard procedures will be followed to build and operate a packet BBS system from the ground up.

  • SCCo-standard Linux system
    • A Linux system will be built from the ground up, according to the standard SCCo configuration procedures
  • SCCo-standard JNOS BBS
    • A multi-interface JNOS system will be built on top of the Linux system, according to the standard SCCo configuration procedures
  • Administrative tasks
    • A variety of operational tasks will be performed on the new machine, including: backups, restores, updating Linux, updating JNOS, troubleshooting problems, and more.

Operational

A key part of being an SCCo packet BBS SysOp is being able to perform the day-to-day operational duties necessary to build, manage and evolve the network and service offering. And hands-on experience is a key part of learning how to perform those duties. it is expected that the student engage in hands-on activities, working with other SCCo SysOps, to perform such tasks as are listed below.

  • Regular (weekly) packet check-ins
  • Answering user questions and providing technical support on the packet user group (scc-packet)
  • Assist with preparation and delivery of packet training courses
  • Assist with packet operations at county drills, including EOC user stations and BBS operations
  • Assist with work parties, including installations, upgrades and maintenance at radio sites and EOC locations
  • Participate in planning of new features and capabilities

 

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This page was last updated on 01-Jan-2020