Digital modes use audio-frequency signals which are modulated in various ways according to the mode. The computer and software link to the transceiver also by a serial port connection (CAT) which allows the program some control of the radio. Much of the software available is multi-mode, which means that they are able to operate many popular digital modes (ie DominoEX, MFSK16, PSK31, and RTTY) though not all are equal in this regard. It can be difficult to identify some of the more obscure modes which appear on the amateur bands. Some digital software packages include the Reed Solomon ID protocol that sends a two second code before each text transmission informing the software at the other end what mode is being used to send the message and the center frequency for the transmission. Generally these programs have similar interfaces which include the following general features: At this time Fldigi, Digital Master 780 v5, and MultiPSK all implement this protocol. Text from decoded incoming signals is displayed here. When you transmit, the transmitted text is also displayed here, making a record of the QSO. Here is where you type what you want to transmit. Pressing a macro button will enter text into this pane. The signals coming in can be seen, selected and tuned to. The type of signal being received can often be identified by its fingerprint on the waterfall. These programmable buttons enable blocks of text to be entered into the transmit window. Other controls and functions may also be offered. How do we choose between the programs available for operating digital modes? All programs perform operations under the surface that affect how signals are decoded etc. I don’t believe that there is much to choose between programs in this regard unless the operator is very technically minded and anxious to have control over all the parameters of the signal processing. Of more relevance, particularly to the novice user, is the programs user interface that determines just how easy the program is to use. Does it have an attractive easy to use interface? The following issues are of relevance when choosing a program to use for digital modes. Ease of signal identification and ease of selection. Multiple signal decoding (like CW Skimmer). Use fldigi for general logging software#.
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