... aaand the QSO number for 2025 now is bigger than previous 4 years'.

#FT8 #FT4

Would you like to connect #WSJT-X to your logger application and another helper app (#GridTracker, JTAlert,...)?

You just need to use a UDP Multicast address (in 224.0.0.1 - 239.255.255.255 range) bound to an network interface (en0 in my case using #linux) in all the apps.

Don't forget to use the same port everywhere!

Thanks to this I can do digital modes (#FT8, #FT4, ...) and, *optionally*, use GridTracker to visualize my contacts.

More details here: https://www.n3fjp.com/help/wsjt-x-integration-with-n3fjp-software.html

#hamradio

Today's #POTA activation results: 73 (!) QSO on #40m, #20m and #15m. Modes were #SSB, #FT8 and #FT4. 5 continents worked: #Europe, #Africa, #NorthAmerica, #Asia and #Oceania. Besides others I worked
South Carolina, Canary Islands, Armenia, West Malaysia, Indonesia (twice, furthest distance), and an #ATNO: #Thailand.

Thanks hunters! 🤠

#hamradio #amateurradio

Not getting any answers today, nor being heard widely.

#20m #CQ #FT4

Why Every Future Ham Radio Operator Should Know About WSJT-X (Even Before Getting a License)

678 words, 4 minutes read time

If you’re a guy intrigued by the world of amateur radio but haven’t yet taken the plunge to get licensed, there’s a powerful tool that can ignite your passion and deepen your understanding: WSJT-X. This software suite, developed by Nobel Laureate Dr. Joe Taylor (K1JT), is revolutionizing the way amateur radio enthusiasts communicate, especially under weak-signal conditions.

What Is WSJT-X?

WSJT-X stands for “Weak Signal Joe Taylor – eXtended.” It’s a free, open-source software designed for weak-signal digital communication by amateur radio. The suite includes various modes like FT8, FT4, JT65, and WSPR, each optimized for different types of radio-wave propagation.

Why Should You Care About WSJT-X?

Even without a license, WSJT-X offers a window into the amateur radio world. You can monitor signals, understand propagation patterns, and get a feel for the community. It’s like being a fly on the wall in a global conversation, offering insights that can be invaluable when you decide to pursue your license.​

Getting Started with WSJT-X

1. Download and Install: Visit the official WSJT-X website to download the software compatible with your operating system.​WSJT+2WSJT+2WSJT+2
2. Set Up Your Hardware: While transmitting requires a license, receiving doesn’t. You can start by connecting a Software Defined Radio (SDR) like the RTL-SDR to your computer. This setup allows you to receive signals and observe the digital modes in action.​
3. Configure the Software: Input your location details and set up the audio input from your SDR. Ensure your computer’s clock is synchronized accurately, as digital modes like FT8 are time-sensitive.​
4. Start Listening: Once set up, you can start monitoring various bands. You’ll see call signs, signal reports, and other data scrolling across your screen, providing a real-time look at global communications.​

Understanding Digital Modes

WSJT-X supports several digital modes, each with unique characteristics:​

• FT8: The most popular mode, designed for quick and efficient communication under weak signal conditions.​
• FT4: Faster than FT8, suitable for contesting and rapid exchanges.​
• JT65 and JT9: Older modes, still used for specific applications like moonbounce communications.​
• WSPR: Stands for “Weak Signal Propagation Reporter,” used for testing propagation paths with low-power transmissions.​

Learning from the Community

Engaging with the amateur radio community can enhance your learning experience. Platforms like Reddit’s r/amateurradio offer discussions, advice, and shared experiences from both seasoned operators and newcomers. Additionally, websites like HamStudy.org provide study tools and resources to help you prepare for your license exam.​

Monitoring Propagation with PSK Reporter

PSK Reporter is a valuable tool that collects and displays reception reports from around the world. By monitoring this data, you can observe real-time propagation conditions and understand how signals travel over various frequencies and distances.​

Exploring Further with YouTube Tutorials

Visual learners can benefit from comprehensive tutorials available on YouTube. For instance, the WSJT-X FT8 Tutorial Master Class offers an in-depth look at setting up and operating WSJT-X, providing step-by-step guidance for beginners.​

Conclusion

WSJT-X serves as a gateway into the fascinating world of amateur radio. By observing and understanding digital communications, you can build a solid foundation that will serve you well when you decide to pursue your license. The software offers a hands-on experience that complements theoretical study, making your learning journey both practical and engaging.​

Ready to dive deeper into the world of amateur radio? Subscribe to our newsletter for more insights, tips, and updates. Have questions or experiences to share? Join the conversation by leaving a comment below.

D. Bryan King

Sources

• WSJT-X Official Site
• ARRL: Introduction to Digital Modes
• HamStudy.org
• eHam WSJT-X Reviews
• DXZone: WSJT Software Listings
• ZL1BPU WSJT Overview
• YouTube: WSJT-X Tutorials
• Reddit: r/AmateurRadio Community
• Ham Radio School: FT8 in WSJT-X
• QRZ.com (Callsign Lookup & Forums)
• WSJT-X on SourceForge
• DXWatch: Spotting DX Activity (for FT8 users)
• Ham Radio Dude (YouTube & Blog)
• PSK Reporter (Real-time Signal Propagation Tool)
• Contesting.com: Amateur Radio Digital Contesting

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the author. The information provided is based on personal research, experience, and understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing. Readers should consult relevant experts or authorities for specific guidance related to their unique situations.

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Der #DARC-#FT4-#Contest Mai 2025 ist beendet. Zahlreiche Funkamateure waren in FT4 aktiv. Bereits am Tag nach dem Contest sind beim DARC-Contestreferat 39 Logs aus 8 Ländern eingegangen. Sie dokumentieren 2.065 QSOs.
Aus DL sind bislang 28 Logs eingetroffen. Die meisten Logs kamen aus dem Distrikt F (3 Logs), gefolgt von Distrikt C (3 Logs) und Distrikt B (3 Logs).

Nicht vergessen und dran denken: Morgen, 21:00 Ortszeit (MESZ) auf den Bändern 80m und 40m 1 1/2 Stunden Spaß in FT4 beim #DARC #FT4 #Contest im Mai 2025 🙂 Ich zähle auf euch!

Looks like inter-G people have gone to sleep. I couldn't find many M3/M7 stations on 40, but pinged any I could find, then moved onto M0/Gx stations. #40m #FT4 #FT8

Discounting DMR chats... I don't log them.

In 15 Minuten, um 20 Uhr lokaler Zeit, ist es so weit: der erste #RTTY-Kurzcontest im Jahr 2025 startet auf 80m und 40m - ja, auch hier ist das 40m Band neu, wie im #FT4-Contest auch 🙂 Wir sehen uns im Contest! https://www.darc.de/der-club/referate/conteste/rtty-kurz/rtty-rules/

Good DX on #28MHz - Americas are loud and clear, getting there with 20W easily even with #FT4

If you are in the UK and have FT8 ready to go, point towards LEEDS (IO93GT) and call G7DCT. He's chuntering at me on Signal that the band is dead!

He's pointing NORTH'ish now while he watches the F1 Sprint Qualifying Replay

#Ft8 #ft4 #digital #f1

It took a few resets to get here, but I'm so happy to have access to #SDRControl from my iPad again. It's the best #FT8 / #FT4 #hamradio experience I've seen yet.

Today's ingredients for a #POTA #parksontheair #FT4 #FT8 CW #MorseCode recipe. Looks like the oven might be overheating a little. Doesn't matter. We'll finish with a yummy and tasty morning activation. #AmateurRadio #Hamradio @qrplabs #QDX #QCX @panasonic #Toughpad

Magical hour, good DX on #28MHz #FT4

Edit: FT4....

Heute findet der #DARC #FT4 contest auf 40 und 80m statt. 20:00-21:30 Uhr Küchenzeit

I am using an #web-888 #websdr with an mini whip antenna to monitor 11 bands of #FT8 and #FT4 in parallel and automatically report it to pskreporter.

That is what it received in the last 24 hours (under DK9JHB/sdr)

#hamradio #amateurradio #sdr #qrp

First #POTA activation this year.
It was quite chilly outside, so mountain sloth Stubbsi stayed in the car all the time. 50 QSO on #20m and #15m, #SSB mostly but also #FT8 and #FT4.
Thanks, hunters!

#hamradio #amateurradio

May all of your #AmateurRadio #HamRadio CW #MorseCode #FT8 #FT4 #SSB #SSTV #SAT #packet #Winlink #JS8Call #WSPR goals and dreams come to fruition in 2025

Just finished my 103rd QSO on #FT4 / #FT8 today. Productive day, nope. Relaxing, oh yeah.

Pretty much all HF bands worked, almost.

Am Dienstag, 12.11.2025 19:00 - 19:59 UTC 20:00 - 20:59 Ortszeit ist es wieder so weit, der #DARC #FT4 #Contest findet wieder statt. Ihr seid alle eingeladen, teilzunehmen. Infos unter https://www.darc.de/der-club/referate/conteste/ft4-contest/ft4-rules/

Wir sehen uns!