[GCARC] FT8 test, this weekend

[Jim Wright]

As you read about in the November GCARC Crosstalk, we are now 2 weeks away
from the release of WSJT-X version 2.0.  This is version that includes
contest mode for FT8. A final release candidate, rc5, is now available.

As a major "shake down" test of this final release candidate software prior
to the official 2.0 release, there will be a one hour FT8 "practice
contest" scheduled by Dr. Joe Taylor and the WSJT development team. That
test takes place for one hour this Friday night (0200-0300 UTC Dec 1).
Everyone is welcome to participate. You'll need to be on the WSJT-X 2.0-rc5
version, if going to participate. Scroll down to the 2.0 section on page
https://physics.princeton.edu/pulsar/k1jt/wsjtx.html if you need a copy.

And since you've already loaded rc5, you might be interested in a brand new
contest,  the rttycontesting.com "FT8 Roundup" contest. It starts later
this weekend, running from 1800 UTC Dec 1 to 2359 UTC Dec 2. Preparation
instructions and rules can be found here:
https://www.rttycontesting.com/ft8-roundup/

Good luck to anyone who tries participating in either using the new contest
mode of FT8!