Definitive In-Depth Operating Guide to WSJT-X FT8 Part 2

I just finished up my second video to the In-depth guide to WSJT-X FT8 operation. It's on YouTube right now. Don't miss Part 1 and the accompanying post In-Depth WSJT-X Easy Method – v2.6.1 FT8

Newest WSJT-X v2.6.1 and Highlighted Features In My Video

As of this writing, the newest version of WSJT-X is v2.6.1, and this video below will go through its highlighted features. Whether you're a radio ham looking for improved operating experience, or just curious about what's new in the line of digital modes, I'm here to detail everything for you. So sit back and I'll take you through everything inside WSJT-X v2.6.1. (See the video below)

  • Pre-QSO Checklist
  • Radio Checklist
  • Decode AP
  • Free Text Messages
  • Active Stations
  • Hound Mode
  • Making a DXpedition contact using Hound mode
  • How to find DXpeditions on the air and use Alerts

Decode AP

The WSJT-X decoders for FST4, FT4, FT8, JT65, and Q65 include procedures that use naturally accumulating information during a minimal QSO. This a priori (AP) information increases sensitivity of the decoder by up to 4 dB, at the cost of a slightly higher rate of false decodes. AP is optional in FT8 and JT65, but is always enabled for Q65 and for FT4 and FST4 when decode depth is Normal or Deep.

WSJT-X User Guide v2.6.1

Active Stations

A new window labeled Active Stations displays a list of received but unworked callsigns, sorted in decreasing order of potential contest points. With option CQ Max Dist selected, the program will select the reply to your CQ that yields the most contest points. You can click on a line in the Active Stations window to call that station.

WSJT-X User Guide v2.6.1

Rules For Hounds

Select Hound in settings and on the main window of WSJT-X.

The DXpedition signal should be audible between 300 and 900 Hz, while the callers are typically higher in frequency, at 1000 Hz and above.

Once you've identified the signal of the expedition, analyze the waterfall for a clear frequency to use as your transmission frequency (denoted by a red mark). It's very important to note that Hound transmissions should always be sent on frequencies above 1000 Hz without exception.

Please do not call Fox if you are not receiving his transmissions!

The Fox (DX station) always transmits during the even periods, so the "Tx even/1st" box is greyed out. You'll be transmitting on the n the Odd (2nd) periods.

See the video for how it's done.

Video - WSJT-X FT8 EASY Newest Features Operating Guide Part 2 With Hound Dxpeditions Mode

YouTube player

Thank You

Do you have any ideas on WSJT-X? Please comment below.

To stay up to date with Mr. B and I on our travels, follow us at TwitterFacebookInstagram and YouTube. If you have any questions or comments about our journey, we invite you to join the conversation in our comment section here or at YouTube–it not only helps you but other readers as well! We’re incredibly thankful for all of our subscribers–their support makes this website possible. So please stay in touch and warmest regards & best 73s! – Rich, K0PIR

Sources and Reference

FT8 DXpedition Mode Guide

WSJT-X download

WSJT-X Main PDF Users Guide

FT8 Operating Guide

Using the Wide Graph

Icom 7300 Receiver Settings For Digital

Icom 7300 Easy Transmitter Settings For Digital

Icom 7300/7610 Adjusting RF Power Digital Modes

SILVER Membership (Remove Google Ads)

With a $4.95 donation I'll make you a login that will bypass Google Advertisements. It will be good for three months and it's non re-curring, so if you like it you'll have to pay again after 3 months. Just for now, please consider it as a small one-time donation.

You get access to www.K0PIR.us for 3 months without any Google Advertisements.

Price: $4.95 for 3 months.

K0PIR

I'm an Amateur Radio enthusiast. I love the hobby and experimenting with radios, antennas and software. On my YouTube channel I upload videos on the Icom 7300 and Icom 7610 along with Ham radio software programs. I hope to inspire people to try new things in Amateur Radio.

Subscribe
Notify of
Call
2 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Guest
George
1 year ago

Hi Rich,

You have made an amazing number of useful and helpful videos.
Have you looked at VarAC Chat – a weak signal keyboard to keyboard chat?

George

Callsign
VY1GP
Translate »
2
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x