Analog Node exists to keep dial‑up, BBSes, fax, and HAM packet radio alive and usable on modern infrastructure. This site documents what actually works today—real hardware, real services, real configurations—so analog systems can continue to connect across fiber, VoIP, and IP networks.
This is the anchor article for Analog Node. Every guide, spotlight, and product recommendation links back here.
What Is Analog Node?
Analog Node is a practical resource for: – Bulletin Board Systems (BBSes) running over dial‑up, telnet, and hybrid networks – AT‑command modems, serial hardware, and USB‑to‑serial bridges – Fax over IP, VoIP, SIP, and modem‑compatible gateways – HAM packet radio, TNCs, and radio‑linked BBS nodes – Mini PCs and homelab setups designed to run these systems reliably
We focus on bridging, not nostalgia. If a technique doesn’t work reliably in 2026, it doesn’t belong here.
BBSes in the Modern Era
BBSes never truly disappeared—they adapted. Today’s BBS landscape includes: – Traditional dial‑up BBSes using real modems – VoIP‑backed dial‑up via ATAs and SIP trunks – Telnet and SSH BBSes hosted on modern servers – Hybrid BBSes offering both dial‑up and IP access
Analog Node documents how sysops keep classic software running while interfacing with modern networks.
Modems, AT Commands, and Real Hardware
Not all modems are equal. We focus on: – External hardware modems with full AT command support – USB and serial interfaces that behave predictably – Compatibility with VoIP codecs and gateways – Known‑good chipsets and configurations
If it can’t negotiate cleanly or drops carrier, we’ll say so.
VoIP, SIP, and Fax Compatibility
Running analog protocols over IP is tricky. This site covers: – ATA devices suitable for modem and fax use – Codec selection (G.711 vs T.38) – SIP providers that tolerate modem signaling – Common failure modes and how to avoid them
This includes both dial‑up BBS access and fax over IP scenarios.
HAM Packet Radio and Radio‑Linked BBSes
HAM packet radio remains one of the most resilient ways to move data.
Analog Node covers: – TNC hardware and software options – Packet BBS software – RF‑to‑IP gateways – Hybrid HAM + internet systems
Radio is still part of the network.
BBS Spotlights and Community Resources
A core part of Analog Node is documenting living systems.
We publish: – BBS Spotlights (one system at a time) – Sysop interviews and configurations – Resource roundups (directories, archives, software) – Media coverage of BBS culture and history
If you run a system, we want to document it accurately—with your input.
Hardware and Services We Recommend
Analog Node includes a curated shop and affiliate links for: – Modems and serial hardware – Mini PCs suitable for 24/7 operation – VoIP/SIP services that actually work with modems – HAM packet equipment
Recommendations are based on testing, not hype.
Homelab Infrastructure
Some posts go behind the scenes.
Homelab articles show: – How these systems are hosted – Power, networking, and redundancy choices – Real‑world constraints and tradeoffs
Infrastructure matters when uptime matters.
Why Analog Still Matters
Analog protocols are robust, understandable, and decentralized.
They: – Work during outages – Don’t depend on centralized platforms – Encourage experimentation and learning – Still solve real problems
Analog Node exists to make sure they keep working.
Get Involved
- Browse the BBS Spotlights
- Explore the Guides
- Use the Featured on Analog Node badge
- Contact us to feature your system
Analog Node — Bridging Analog Systems to Modern Networks