[Elecraft] FT 8

[Edward R Cole]

I haven't yet used FT8, but 15-years use of JT65 on 2m-em (and 6m & 23cm eme).

FT8 and JT65 plus other variants are for making basic contacts where 
one exchanges call signs and signal reports (and grid squares for 
some contests).
Not really designed for any conversation.  This satisfies DXer's and 
contesters, grid chasers, etc.

Note: deep-search is used with marginally weak signals to speed up 
decoding (adds about 2-3 dB sensitivity).  Basically is a listing of 
all eme stations worldwide so the software does not have to look for 
all random possibilities of call signs.  Some feel this is a kind of 
cheating and have deep-search off during contests.

QRA is a new digital mode that is purportedly more sensitive without 
use of the call sign list.  I agree that contests should require 
operator interface real-time (no auto contesting).  Contesting is 
supposed to be a test of station capability and the operator's skill.

But I enjoy a nice chat on phone on occasion and only RTTY and psk-31 
have sufficed as digital equivalent.
There are some digital modes that work like e-mail but are not 
real-time exchange.

A new mode is being explored called WSQ which may offer a digital 
alternative to CW/phone.  Quite a bit of its use on 630m!
My 630m antenna is hung up at this point so cannot fully raise 
it.  Having sat-TV guy out soon and might convince him to get wires 
cleared on the roof if he needs to adjust the dish.  I'm not allowed 
to climb anymore.

73, Ed - KL7UW
   http://www.kl7uw.com
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