What is FT-8?

FT-8 was developed by K1JT and K9AN as part of the WSJT-X software suite. It uses 8-FSK modulation with 6.25 Hz tone spacing and operates in 15-second intervals. It can decode signals 10 dB below the noise floor, making it extremely popular for weak signal communication.

Can FT-8 damage your transceiver?

No — FT-8 itself cannot damage your radio. However, improper setup (such as running too much power, using a poor antenna match, or operating without proper duty cycle management) can cause damage. Always ensure your radio is properly configured when running digital modes.

Difference between FT-8 and PSK-XX

PSK-XX (such as PSK31) uses phase shift keying and operates at higher power levels with wider bandwidth. FT-8 is more robust at lower signal levels and uses much less bandwidth.

Difference between FT-8 and FT-4

FT-4 uses 4-second intervals (vs 15 seconds for FT-8) which makes it faster but less sensitive. FT-4 also transmits shorter messages and is less robust than FT-8 at very low signal levels.

Yaesu System Fusion

System Fusion uses C4FM (4-level Frequency Shift Keying) modulation. It supports both analog FM and digital modes, making it backward compatible with existing analog repeaters.

D-STAR

D-STAR (Digital Smart Technologies for Amateur Radio) was developed by the Japan Amateur Radio League (JARL). It uses DQPSK modulation and is digital only.

Advantages of D-STAR

• Larger user base worldwide
• Better audio codec quality
• Wider range of data modes including GPS position reporting and text messaging

Advantages of System Fusion

• Analog backward compatibility — works on existing FM repeaters
• Both C4FM and FDMA modes supported

Which one should you choose?

The choice depends on regional availability of repeaters and personal preference. Check what repeaters are available in your area before making a decision.

What is D-STAR?

D-STAR (Digital Smart Technologies for Amateur Radio) was developed by the Japan Amateur Radio League (JARL) in the late 1990s. It uses digital voice encoding for clearer communication compared to analog FM.

Radio Formats

D-STAR is available in handheld, mobile, and base station formats from several manufacturers including Icom, Kenwood, and Yaesu.

Data Capabilities

D-STAR supports data transmission, text messaging, and GPS position reporting in addition to digital voice.

Getting Started

1. Get a D-STAR compatible radio.
2. Configure the frequency, mode, and code settings.
3. Connect to a local D-STAR repeater.
4. Make calls and disconnect when finished.

No Repeater Nearby?

If you don't have a D-STAR repeater in range, you can use a digital hotspot like the Zumspot. These devices connect to the internet and allow you to access the D-STAR network from home.

A Zumspot is a small device that runs a D-STAR reflector client. It creates a personal digital repeater that connects to the internet, allowing you to communicate with other D-STAR users worldwide without needing a physical repeater.

The TXQ (branded as MyDel G63) is a tiny UHF radio that is great for a basic home prepper kit. It is simple and easy to program.

Key Points

• Programmable for UK PMR frequencies (though not strictly compliant for licence-free use)
• Priced at £49.99 from hamradio.co.uk
• Charges via USB power bank — ideal for emergency situations
• Good emergency radio for family contact when phone signal is down

This radio is perfect for anyone looking for a simple, affordable backup communication device.

If your AnyTone D578VII won't turn off or is boot looping when DC power is applied, you need to upgrade the firmware to V2.04A.

Download the toolkit at: https://bit.ly/3tUUW4h

Always check downloaded files for viruses before running them.

The FT-710 doesn't really need to "fit" in the range — component shortages are forcing manufacturers to rethink their lineups. The FT-710 uses the same FT-991A chassis and the same key elements as the FT-DX-10 receiver, probably with some component substitutions.

It's good to see Yaesu pushing out new radios yearly.

Why buy over the DX-10?

• Cheaper
• Smaller
• Newer technology

Price?

No idea — dealers don't know either. Watch this space.

Yaesu has confirmed a new radio transceiver — the FT-710 AESS. It is an SDR with an amazing receiver like the FT-DX-10.

Join the Facebook group for the latest news and updates.

Place a deposit to order at: https://bit.ly/3NQpBrc

The DV-Stick 30 was originally the NW-Digital ThumbDV. Combitronics and DV-Mega have joined forces to produce this device.

It is popular among those who cannot install antennas — such as people in residential properties, hospital patients, and travellers.

Software from David PA7LIM (BlueDV) is available for all operating systems.

Driver Links

• FTDI Drivers
• Silicon Labs Drivers

Setup instructions are available as a PDF. Purchase from Martin Lynch & Sons (ML&S).

The TYT drivers from their website are useless. here is a working driver — download from Google Drive.

Installation Steps

1. Unzip the driver to a folder on your desktop (NOT your Downloads folder — the Install option will be missing there).
2. Right-click sttube.inf and select Install.
3. Restart your PC without the radio connected.
4. Plug in the radio.
5. Open TYT CPS and read the radio.

Windows 11 Note

If you are using Windows 11, click "Show more Options" to see the Install menu item.

Let me know if it worked!

What is KerberosSDR?

KerberosSDR is a 4x RTL-SDR R820T2 coherent receiver with a built-in noise source, USB hub, calibration board, and shielded enclosure. It reached end of life in 2022 but remains popular.

Uses

• Radio direction finding
• Passive radar
• Fox hunts
• Search and rescue beacon location
• Radio astronomy
• Trunking system monitoring
• ADS-B reception
• Weather satellite decoding

Software

Use SDR-Console from Simon Brown, or SDR# for noise reduction capabilities.

Driver Fixes

Use Zadig to fix driver issues with the RTL-SDR devices.

Successor

KrakenSDR is the replacement but is more expensive.