[Lowfer] New CMSK Program ... WE2XGR/2 in CMSK mode

[jrusgrove at comcast.net]

John W1TAG and I have been testing a 'pre beta' version of CMSK - a  program developed jointly by 
ZL2AFP and ZL1BPU/ZL1EE. The beta version has now been released and a description and download is 
available at:

http://www.qsl.net/z/zl1bpu/CMSK/cmsk.htm

This program was developed specifically for use at LF and MF, runs MSK using a varicode (very 
similar to that used by PSK31), and  uses Forward Error Correction (FEC). Initial tests have shown 
it to be very robust in the presence of static and fading. It's well known that frequency shift 
keying work best in the presence of static - amplitude modes, like PSK, do not compare favorably. 
Apparently the military realized this years ago as virtually all of their VLF, LF and MF 
transmissions are frequency shift keying. John and I have confirmed this with our tests on LF and 
MF.

A side benefit of this mode is that a linear amplifier is not required. For some time I've been 
using the 500 kHz linear exciter (phasing type) > X2 multiplier > Class D amplifier running at about 
95% efficiency.

WE2XGR/2 will begin transmitting in CMSK 31 mode tonight on 511.0 kHz starting about 2100Z. Power 
levels and modes may vary as John and I run a few more tests but will be primarily in 31. The 
message will contain power level and mode info.

Reports appreciated.

Jay W1VD  WD2XNS  WE2XGR/2