What is js8 call?

JS8Call is an experiment to test the feasibility of a digital mode with the robustness of FT8, combined with a messaging and network protocol layer for weak signal communication on HF, using a keyboard messaging style interface.

What is JS8 mode?

JS8Call (JS8) is an amateur radio QSO communication mode based on FT8. It is popular among amateur radio operators for its ability to send and receive messages despite challenging propagation conditions, high noise environments, low power operations (QRP), or even compromised antennas.

What is heartbeat in js8call?

There is an automated heartbeat mechanism that transmits on an interval once turned on (HB button on the top right). This interval can be changed in the settings. There's no protection against the heartbeat from transmitting over a message you're receiving, so you'll have to keep an eye on it.

What equipment is needed for FT8?

To use FT8 you need four things: An HF transceiver with data or SSB capability. An audio interface, a way to get receive audio from the radio into a computer and audio output of the computer into the radio, typically a sound card interface. A computer capable of running the FT8 software and time synchronization.

What is the difference between FT4 and FT8?

FT8 messages are transmitted using eight-tone continuous-phase frequency shift keying (CPFSK). Each transmitted tone or channel symbol conveys three bits. FT4 modulation uses four-tone CPFSK at approximately 23.4 baud, with tones separated by the baud rate so each channel symbol conveys only two message bits.

JS8Call - The Basics

What is RTTY on ham radio?

RTTY (Radio TeleTYpe) is a method of using tones to send digital messages between radios in amateur HF bands (and other services). While it has been around for many years, these days it usually involves using a computer and modulation/demodulation software to send/receive messages.

What is PSK31 in ham radio?

PSK31 is a highly-efficient data mode that lets you work long distances, even when you can barely hear the signal. PSK31 stands for Phase Shift Keying 31 baud (or 31 bits per second/bps). Unlike RTTY (radio teletype) the characters are formed by changing the phase of the sound wave, not by using different tones.

Does FT8 require Internet?

– A Question of Timing. However the criticism of FT8 requiring an Internet connection is a bit different. Most weak signal modes require synchronization of computer clocks to a time standard. Typically, this is done over the Internet.

What do I need for winlink?

Get on Winlink

On HF, you'll need a sound card and software to send via WINMOR, or a separate communications processor that supports the PACTOR family of digital modes.

What are the RTTY frequencies?

RTTY operation is typically found on frequencies between about 3.58 and 3.65 MHz although there are variations for some countries including Japan. RTTY allocations for 40 metres vary greatly around the world in view of the different amateur radio band allocations.

Is PSK31 the same as RTTY?

It differs from RTTY in that characters in PSK31 mode (31 bits per second/bps) are formed by changing the phase of the sound wave. RTTY is a binary frequency shift keying modulation scheme that involves sending a two-toned audio signal. PSK31 also enables Hams to enjoy real-time keyboard-to-keyboard chatting.

What do I need for PSK31?

The only major requirement for the computer used to send and receive the PSK31 signals is that it contain a soundcard. As a rule, a faster CPU and more memory are desired, however PSK31 will work on virtually any PC equipped with an internal or external soundcard.

What does CW stand for in ham radio?

As a true ham radio fanatic, my personal favorite ham activity is yakking with other hams in Morse Code, also called CW(for continuous waves). Morse Code has a mystique to it, it is an extremely cool method with which to communicate.

What does CQ stand for in ham radio?

Morse Code (CW)+ The best way to start with CW is to tune around until you hear someone calling CQ. CQ means, “I wish to contact any amateur station.” When answering a CQer you should zero beat the other ham's frequency. That means setting your transmit frequency as close to theirs as possible.

How long has ft8 been around?

FT8 was introduced in July 2017 with version 1.8 of the software package WSJT-X [1, 2]. It quickly gained world-wide popularity, by some measures soon accounting for a large fraction of all ham radio activity on the high frequency (HF) bands [3].

Is FT8 killing ham radio?

So, will FT8 kill ham radio as some have posed? True, it is mostly automated. True, it reduces the skill required to make DX contacts. True, it removes conversation from the QSO the same as is true of most DX chasing contacts on any mode.

Can technicians use FT8?

On 10 meters, Technicians have RTTY and data privileges — including FT8 — from 28.000 to 28.300 MHz, and SSB phone privileges from 28.300 to 28.500 MHz, and may operate on CW over the entire 28.0000 – 28.500 MHz segment. Technicians may enjoy all operating privileges at 50 MHz and above.

What is the most popular ham radio digital mode?

when hams worked out techniques of connecting mechanical Teletype keyboard/printers to amateur gear using FSK and AFSK modulation. There are too many different modes to list individually, but here are some of the major ones: FT8 - In 2018 it is by far the most popular digital mode for award chasing and working DX.