JS8Call provides keyboard-to-keyboard communication for amateur radio operators working under weak-signal conditions. It combines the weak-signal characteristics derived from FT8 technology with a messaging and network layer designed for conversations rather than the highly structured exchanges associated with FT8 contacts.
Communication uses the JS8 modulation family and can extend beyond a direct live conversation. Stations can participate in directed messaging, relay traffic and store messages for other operators, giving the software capabilities more reminiscent of a small radio messaging network.
This is free and open source software.
Key Features
- Exchange free-form keyboard messages over amateur radio using JS8 modulation.
- Operate effectively where signals are too weak for many conventional keyboard modes.
- Use directed messages addressed to particular stations or groups.
- Send and receive acknowledgements as part of the messaging protocol.
- Relay messages through intermediate stations to extend communication paths.
- Store messages for stations that are not available for a direct conversation.
- Query participating stations for information and network status.
- Use automatic station announcements to make presence known to other operators.
- Work at different JS8 speeds to suit propagation conditions and operating requirements.
- Relay appropriate information to APRS infrastructure.
- Maintain heard-station and activity information within the operating interface.
- Integrate radio control and audio handling required for transmit and receive operation.
- Run natively on Linux on both x86-64 and ARM64 systems.
Website: js8call.com
Support:
Developer: Jordan Sherer and the JS8Call development team
License: GNU General Public License v3.0
JS8Call is written in C++. Learn C++ with our recommended free books and free tutorials.
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Read our verdict in the software roundup.
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