FT8 has become increasingly popular in amateur radio circles in recent years, and for good reason.
This digital mode removes conversation and allows for fast contacts over long distances, even in low power mode and under challenging band conditions.
What is FT8?
FT8 is a digital mode used in amateur radio. It was jointly developed by Joe Taylor, K1JT, and Steve Franke, K9AN, and released back in 2017. The mode is designed to allow for reliable communication over long distances, even in poor conditions.
FT8 uses a time-synchronized transmission and decoding process, which allows for faster and more efficient communication than other digital modes like PSK31 or RTTY.
During the 2020 ARRL Field Day event, over 44% of all contacts made by participants were done using digital modes, such as FT8 and PSK31.
It also uses a narrow bandwidth of just 50 Hz. This is beneficial in reducing interference and allowing for more efficient use of the radio spectrum.
How does FT8 work?
The mode works by transmitting and receiving digital reports between two ham radio stations. The transmission process is highly automated, with a PC handling most of the tasks involved. Here’s a brief overview of how it works:
The transmitting station sends out CQ and a unique identifier.
The receiving station answers the CQ call, using software to decode signals and verify the message and identifier.
The receiving station sends a confirmation signal report back to the transmitting station, indicating that the message was received successfully.
This entire process and fast completion takes just 15 seconds, which is much faster than other digital modes that can take several minutes to complete a transmission. The short transmission time also makes FT8 ideal for contesting and other competitive activities. This completely changes the type of skill required.
So What is the point of FT8?
Beyond DXing and contesting, FT8 is a fascinating method that offers a unique and fast-pace ham radio experience. It requires skill and knowledge to optimize your performance and make successful contacts. Antenna setup, propagation conditions, and a good log tracking system are challenges amplified by FT8. Mastering it offers opportunities for learning and exploration quickly.
Advantages of FT8 Over Other Digital Modes
There are several advantages to using FT8 over other digital modes:
Faster and more efficient communication: FT8 allows for fast and efficient communication over long distances, even in less-than-ideal conditions. This makes it a great option for weak signal DX and other long-distance communication.
Narrow bandwidth: FT8 uses a narrow bandwidth of just 50 Hz, which helps to reduce interference and allows for more efficient use of the radio spectrum.
Automated transmission and decoding: FT8 software handles most of the tasks involved in transmitting and decoding a signal report, making it easy to use for operators of all skill levels.
Short transmission time: The 15-second transmission time in FT8 makes it ideal for contesting and other competitive activities.
How to use FT8
Using FT8 is relatively easy, but it does require some setup and configuration. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting started with FT8:
Download and install FT8 software. There are several options available, including WSJT-X, JTDX, and MSHV. Choose the one that best suits your needs and experience level.
Configure your radio and software. You’ll need to set your radio to the correct frequency and mode and configure your software to use the correct audio and CAT settings. Refer to the documentation for detailed instructions.
Set up your transmission parameters. In FT8, you’ll need to set your transmit power, audio levels, and other parameters to ensure that your signal is transmitted correctly.
Start transmitting and decoding signals. Once your software and radio are configured, you can start transmitting and decoding FT8 signals. Look for other operators on the recommended FT8 frequencies and bands, and start making contacts!
Tips for making successful FT8 contacts
Making successful contacts requires some skill and knowledge. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your FT8 communication:
Choose the right frequency and band: FT8 is most effective on certain bands and frequencies, depending on the time of day and other factors. Refer to the recommended frequency and band charts for your region, and adjust your transmission accordingly.
Watch the waterfall display: The waterfall display in your FT8 software shows you the incoming signals on your frequency. Use it to identify other operators and adjust your transmission timing and parameters.
Listen and wait: FT8 signals are often weak and difficult to detect, so it’s important to be patient and wait for signals to appear. Don’t be afraid to adjust your transmission timing and parameters to optimize your signal.
Avoid interference: Because FT8 uses a narrow bandwidth, it’s important to avoid interfering with other signals on your frequency. Be sure to set your transmit frequency and audio levels correctly to avoid causing interference.
Use proper etiquette: As with all ham radio communication, it’s important to use proper etiquette and follow the rules and regulations of your region. Avoid excessive use of emoticons or other non-standard communication methods, and be respectful to other operators.
FT8 Frequency and Bandwidth
FT8 uses a narrow bandwidth of just 50 Hz, which helps to reduce interference and allows for more efficient use of the radio spectrum. It’s important to choose the right frequency and band when using FT8 to ensure optimal signal quality and performance.
Recommended FT8 frequencies and bands
Here are the recommended FT8 frequencies and bands for different regions:
USA and Canada: 3.573, 7.074, 14.074, 18.100, 21.074, 28.074, 50.313, 144.174, and 432.174 MHz.
Europe: 3.573, 7.074, 10.136, 14.074, 18.100, 21.074, 24.915, 28.074, 50.313, 70.091, 144.174, and 432.174 MHz.
Asia and Oceania: 3.573, 7.074, 14.074, 18.100, 21.074, 28.074, 50.313, 144.174, and 432.174 MHz.
Optimizing FT8 Frequency and Bandwidth
To optimize your FT8 performance, it’s important to choose the right frequency and bandwidth for your transmission. Here are some tips for doing so:
Use the recommended frequencies and bands: Stick to the recommended frequencies and bands for your region and time zone to ensure optimal performance.
Adjust your frequency and bandwidth: If you’re having trouble making contacts on a particular frequency or band, try adjusting your frequency and bandwidth slightly to optimize your signal.
Watch the signal strength: Use the waterfall display in your software to monitor the strength of incoming signals, and adjust your frequency and bandwidth accordingly.
FT8 Ham Radio Software
There are several options available for FT8 ham radio software, each with its own features and advantages. Here’s an overview of some popular options:
WSJT-X
The WSJT-X software is the most popular option. It was developed by the creators of FT8 themselves. WSJT-X offers a range of features, including automated decoding and advanced error correction.
JTDX
JTDX is another popular piece of software, offering many of the same features as WSJT-X. It also supports a wider range of digital modes, making it a good choice for amateur radio operators who use multiple modes.
MSHV
MSHV is a newer option for FT8 software offering some unique features, including multi-decoding and support for various modes. It also has a user-friendly interface and is easy to configure.
Different FT8 Software for Different Amateur Radio Operators
The best software for you will depend on your needs and experience level. Here are some recommendations:
Beginners: If you’re new to FT8, we recommend starting with WSJT-X. It’s easy to use and offers all the features you’ll need to get started.
Intermediate Users: If you have some experience with FT8 and want more advanced features, try JTDX or MSHV. Both offer additional features that can enhance your FT8 experience.
Advanced Users: If you’re an advanced user or contest operator, consider using multiple software options to optimize your performance. You may also want to explore more specialized options, such as DXLab or N1MM.
Advanced FT8 Digital Mode Techniques
There are several advanced techniques and features that can help you get even more out of this digital mode. Here are some examples:
Multi-Decoding
Multi-decoding allows you to decode multiple audio signals at once, increasing your chances of making contacts. To use this feature, you’ll need to adjust your FT8 software settings and configure your radio to support multiple simultaneous transmissions.
Contesting Mode
Contesting mode is a specialized feature in some FT8 software that optimizes your computer control performance for contesting and other competitive activities. It can help you make contacts faster and more efficiently and is ideal for operators who participate in contests regularly.
Split Operation
The split operation allows you to transmit and receive on different frequencies, which can help you make contacts when band conditions are challenging. To use this feature, you’ll need to adjust in your FT8 software settings and configure your radio to support split frequency operation.
Weak signal Propagation
FT8 is ideal for weak signal propagation, which allows you to communicate over long distances even under challenging band conditions.
To optimize your performance for weak signal propagation, you’ll need to adjust your frequency and bandwidth settings and use specialized antennas and other equipment.
Why I Love FT8 Mode
I absolutely love FT8! It’s probably my favorite mode.
It’s somewhat like a game to me, where I’m trying to optimize my settings and timing to make the most successful contacts possible.
I particularly enjoy trying to log contacts with all of the counties in the US. It’s challenging, but also incredibly rewarding when I’m able to make a contact with a rare or distant county.
Due to its weak signal ability, FT8 has allowed me to connect with other ham radio enthusiasts around the world that I would have had a harder time connecting with via voice.
Conclusion
FT8 is a powerful digital mode for amateur radio that offers fast and efficient communication for ham radio operators. By following the tips and recommendations in this guide, you can optimize your FT8 performance and make more successful contacts. Remember to choose the right frequency and bandwidth, use the best software for your setup, and explore advanced techniques and features to get the most out of this digital amateur radio mode.