FT8: Choosing a Radio and Interface
So you want to get into FT8: What’s the best way to proceed and what equipment is required? To use FT8 you need four things: HF transceiver with data or […]
An Amateur Radio Blog by DX Engineering FT8
FT8 / Technical Articles
Events / FT8 / Technical Articles
Field Day Strategies to Maximize Scores… and Fun
Since 1933, ARRL’s Field Day has been arguably the most popular event in ham radio. It is a rite of passage of sorts, with many hams citing the event as […]
Field Day / FT8 / Technical Articles
Give FT8 a Try on ARRL Field Day
My all-time favorite ham radio activity is coming up soon—Field Day!! Want to try something new this Field Day, June 25-26? All digital modes can be used, provided they can […]
FT8 / Technical Articles
FT8: Completed and Logged QSOs
What makes an FT8 digital QSO complete and logged? Sometimes you get a signal report back from someone responding with R-10, for example, and then the contact dies there. A […]
FT8 / Technical Articles
FT8: Frequencies, Decibels, and Message Meanings
FT8 is a very popular protocol and continually growing. But does everyone understand the nuances? What do all the characters mean? What are the frequencies? Why are the signal reports’ […]
FT8 / Technical Articles
FT8 vs. FT4: Ham Radio Operating in Digital Modes
FT4 and FT8 are weak-signal-condition digital protocols designed for rapid, accurate communication between amateur radio stations. Information exchanged in a contact typically consists of call signs, four-character Maidenhead locators, signal […]
FT8 / Technical Articles
FT8: Low Signal or Low Power?
It is always interesting to speak on controversial topics, and FT8 sure has had its fair share of controversy. There is one complaint in particular that keeps reappearing: How much […]
FT8 / Technical Articles
FT8: Polite Operating Procedures for Ham Radio Operators
This is going to be a blog that not everyone will agree with. There are plenty of opinions on the “correct” or “polite” way to operate, and that is perfectly […]
FT8 / Technical Articles
FT8 Mode Basics—What is it and How Do I Get Started?
Joe Taylor, K1JT, announced the availability of a new mode in the WSJT-X software suite, FT8, on June 29, 2017. Created by K1JT and Steve Franke, K9AN, FT8 stands for […]
FT8 / Technical Articles
Using the FT8 DXpedition Mode (a.k.a. Fox and Hound)
In an earlier article, “Top 10 Tips for Succeeding in FT8 Mode,” I explained how understanding special operating modes is one of the keys to using FT8. In this article, […]