What is arcOS?

The Amateur Radio Community Operating System is a bootable live Linux system on a USB drive, and is built to "just work" with the affordable Digirig device. arcOS is founded on the belief that digital communications within communities of operators can be accessible and easy to use for ALL, regardless of license class or experience.


Simple.

arcOS focuses on standarized digital communication modes commonly used for both casual and emergency communications. By minimizing the number of included applications and complexity, arcOS strives to avoid overwhelming new or inexperienced users, while offering ambitious users the ability to configure additional features and functionality.


Portable.

arcOS runs on almost any modern-ish x86_64 computer. This means the arcOS USB can be used just about anywhere. By using modular profiles, users can configure arcOS to be deployed for many different roles. Communities of operators can collaborate to build modules suited for their needs. Operators can even share these modules over the air to help others in real time.


Reliable.

After booting from the USB, arcOS "just works!" Just plug in your Digirig and a GPS, and basic digital communications are ready to go, right now. With arcOS, users are not responsible for maintaining an installed Linux system. Feel free to explore and experiment, knowing that any mistakes are easily undone by rebooting.