FT8 Amateur/Ham Radio Mode Software Support

The new Amateur/Ham Radio digital mode, FT8 has attracted a lot of usages, including JT65 users.

The WSJT-X 1.8.0 beta software has the FT8 mode described as fast with an entire QSO taking about a minute, which is four times faster than JT65.

Developed by Steven K9AN and Joe K1JT – the name FT8 stands for its creators Franke and Taylor and 8-Frequency Shift Keying modulation.

Using a 15-second transmit and receive sequences it provides 50 per cent or better decoding probability down to minus-20 dB.

The software includes an auto-sequencing option can also respond automatically to a CQ call decoded reply.

Also included is an HF DXing mode and multi-hop sporadic-E propagation on 6 metres where deep fading may make fast and reliable QSO completion desirable.

Some are comparing FT8 use to that of JT65, and believe more are on air trying the new one.

WSJT Download - https://physics.princeton.edu/pulsar/k1jt/wsjtx.html