[K0NR] FT8 Dominates VHF Contests

[K0NR via rec.radio.amateur.moderated Admin]

Post : FT8 Dominates VHF Contests
URL : https://www.k0nr.com/wordpress/2023/07/ft8-vhf-contests/
Posted : 30 July 2023 at 2:04 pm
Author : Bob K0NR
Categories : Contests, Ham Radio, VHF/UHF

The FT8 mode was first released as part of the WSJT-X software (
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WSJT_(amateur_radio_software) ) in 2017. This
new digital mode was adopted relatively quickly and is now a major force in
amateur radio. You've probably heard the praises and complaints about it. On
the plus side, it enables radio contacts under very poor conditions while
detractors say that it is not real ham radio because the computer is making
the contact. FT8 is an excellent example of a disruptive technology,
impacting daily ham radio operations. This summer, I had two operating
experiences (VHF contests) that really drove this point home.


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