Digital Modes & APRS
Digital modes let you communicate worldwide with low power, send data over radio, and track stations in real time. Here's what MCARC members use and experiment with.
FT8 & FT4
PopularWeak-signal digital modes by Joe Taylor (K1JT). FT8 allows worldwide contacts with as little as 5 watts. Automated exchange of callsigns, grid squares, and signal reports.
Software: WSJT-X, JTDX
APRS
TrackingAutomatic Packet Reporting System — real-time position tracking, weather stations, messaging, and telemetry over VHF. Widely used for mobile and emergency operations.
Frequency: 144.390 MHz (North America)
Winlink
EmCommEmail over radio — send and receive email when internet is unavailable. Critical for emergency communications and used extensively by ARES/RACES groups.
Software: Winlink Express, Pat
JS8Call
MessagingBuilt on FT8's weak-signal technology but designed for keyboard-to-keyboard conversation. Great for long-distance ragchewing on HF with minimal equipment.
Software: JS8Call
PSK31
ClassicPhase Shift Keying — a classic keyboard-to-keyboard digital mode. Very narrow bandwidth (31 Hz) allows many simultaneous QSOs in a small slice of spectrum.
Software: Fldigi, DigiPan
Packet Radio & BBS
ClassicAX.25 packet radio enables store-and-forward messaging, bulletin board systems, and data networking over radio. A foundation for modern digital modes including APRS.
Hardware: TNC or soundcard interface
Getting Started with Digital Modes
Most digital modes require a computer, a radio, and a sound card interface to connect them. Many modern radios have built-in USB audio and CAT control.
What you need:
- HF or VHF radio (depending on the mode)
- Sound card interface (SignaLink, Digirig, or built-in USB audio)
- Software for your chosen mode (most are free)
- An antenna — even a simple wire dipole works for HF digital
Club members are happy to help you get set up. Ask at a meeting or reach out via our contact page.