A Narrow Band Emergency Messaging System (NBEMS) consists of equipment, software, and protocols that enable the operator to exchange digital communications with other amateur radio stations. The system is designed to work in a variety of configurations, from simple to advance, and support multiple protocols. While there are many digital software packages available for today’s radio amateurs, NBEMS software is special in the following ways:
- It’s built on open source software, meaning that the source code is open to anyone to inspect, modify, and enhance; and it’s FREE!
- It supports several personal computing platforms: PC, Mac, and Linux.
- It can be used in amazingly simple configurations without the need to purchase additional hardware, cables, and devices (the most simple configuration consists of the software, a portable computer, and an HT).
The factors above make NBEMS ideal for disasters, emergency response, and community events.
Want to Find Out More About NBEMS & fldigi?
Check out these excellent presentations from Harry Bloomberg, W3YJ:

Introduction to NBEMS
Advanced NBEMS