Peter Hendra wrote in
:

Hi,
I am contemplating purchasing a Pactor Modem - probably Pactor 3.

I have that it needs to be installed by a qualified specialist.

Is this the case or can I install it myself? I actually haven't a clue
what is involved. Is it similar to or as simple as installing a
computer modem between the telephone jack and the computer and then
configuring it or am I entirely ignorant here?

If you're reasonably handy, you can do it. Basically you have to wire the
connection between your SSB and the Pactor (3 wires). There is also a DB9
connection to your computer and perhaps a connection from the computer to
the SSB if you want automatic frequency tuning (which you do want.)

The best source of information on this is at the SailMail web site in their
primer:

http://sailmail.com/smprimer.htm

You can purchase pre-made cables from various sources. This is not
difficult.

-- Geoff