We’ve recently begun experimenting with a WSJT-X derivative for FT8 and other JT Modes. Its called JTDX. The stated purpose of the JTDX software is (from the JTDX website):
The latest release candidate of of the JTDX software supports some interesting additional features beyond WSJT-X including:
Additional FT8 and JT65 decoder options which can provide improved sensitivity
Advanced automatic sequencing and QSO selection features
Decoded messaging filtering features
We’ve been testing JTDX V2.0 release candidates here for about a month now. The feature additions definitely provide some useful enhancements. The software is derived from WSJT-X and we’ve been using it here for DX’ing and for weak signal FT8 work on 6 meters. It appears to have most of the features of the current version of WSJT-X with the notable exception of support for specific contest exchanges.
JTDX Main Window and Waterfall
The JTDX software adds a number of FT8 decoding options that are useful on crowded bands and in situations when signals are very weak. These features can be selectively enabled to match band and signal conditions as well as the user’s available CPU horsepower. With all features enabled, JTDX seems to decode more signals on a crowded band than WSJT-X.
You can read more about the features of JTDX and how to get started with it via the link that follows.
It is winter here in New England and it is not the best time of year to work outdoors. Despite the weather, I have been able to complete a few finishing touches on our new Satellite and 6m Tower. We’ve added a Tower Camera to enable us to view the operation of our antennas from our home or remotely. We also added a J Mode desensitization filter to improve operation with VU mode satellites such as SO-50 and FO-29. You can read more and view some sample vide from the IP camera via the link below.
Aya KC1JEB, Tom AB1NS, Mike K1WVO, and Fred AB1OC recently hosted a Morse Tutor kit build for students at World Academy. World Academy was a HAB-3 School and the student kit build is one of several follow-on activities that we’ve been doing there.
Aya KC1JEB and Tom AB1NS Mentoring Students at World Academy
We built a total of 16 kits over two sessions with the students at the school and had a lot of fun in the process!
Mike K1WVO Mentoring Students at World Academy
Thanks to the excellent mentoring by Aya, Tom, Mike, and their teacher Gisele, all of the kits have been completed and are working!
Gisele Mentoring Students at World Academy
In addition to mentoring the students, Gisele also built a kit of her own and got it working!
Fred AB1OC Mentoring Students at World Academy
Our next session with the students will be to help them learn the Morse Code and begin practicing with their kits. We are also planning a Morse Code competition using the kits similar to the ones we have done in the past.
This project has been great fun for all involved and we have provided the kits free of charge thanks to the support from our generous donors as part of our ongoing fundraising campaign.
