FT8: Choosing a station and interface
You want to get into FT8: What is the best way forward and what equipment is required?
To use FT8 you need 4 things:
A shortwave transceiver with data or SSB transceiver capability
Audio interface
A method of receiving audio from a radio station and inputting computer output audio into the radio station, usually a sound card interface
A computer capable of running FT8 software and time synchronization
First you need to consider your radio station. Sure if they work on frequency, but what else do you need? To operate FT8, you need a sound card interface . There are several ways to achieve this. Some radios have this feature and only require a USB cable from the radio to the computer.
ICOM has been very good at building this kind of functionality into its products. I use IC-7100 as a base station. It's very easy and efficient in digital mode.
IC-7300 is another popular choice for FT8 operation without the need for additional accessories.
If you do not have a radio with built-in USB functionality, you will need a sound card. One of the most popular options is the SignaLink USB digital communications interface from Tigertronics.
has specific jumpers internally and matches specific cables externally. SignaLink USB can adapt to the data usage of any radio station. It combines the legendary performance of the SignaLink SL-1+ with a state-of-the-art built-in low-noise sound card. SignaLink USB has only one USB connection to the computer and, in most cases, only one connection to the radio. Convenient front panel controls make setup and operation easy. Additionally, it is fully isolated and compatible with all radio microphone, data and accessory ports and supports nearly all sound card digital and voice modes. Combinations including SignaLink units and radio-specific interface cables are also available.
There are many other interface options that will work as well. This will depend on your radio type and settings.
Uncle is here:
Are you playing FT8 now? How do you access it? Welcome to share your experience!
