As an avid amateur radio operator, I have always been captivated by the magic of making connections across the globe. From the simplicity of Morse code to the sophistication of modern digital modes, the hobby offers endless possibilities. While FT8 has revolutionized the way we make quick and efficient contacts, I often find myself yearning for more meaningful exchanges.
While I like FT8 for casual “click and collect” QSOs, I’m sometimes missing the possibility to send free text to my QSO partner. Guess I just like the social aspects of amateur radio. And that’s why at some point I started to try out PSK31 and RTTY and ultimately found JS8.
That’s where the digimode JS8 and its software JS8Call comes into play – a digital mode that combines the robustness of FT8 with the richness of free-text communication. Let’s dive into why JS8Call is a game-changer and how it can enhance your amateur radio experience.
The Limitations of FT8
FT8 is undeniably a powerful tool for making rapid contacts, especially under challenging conditions. Its structured format and automated nature make it perfect for “click and collect” QSOs. However, this very structure can feel limiting at times. Have you ever looked up a station on QRZ.com and wished you could send a personal message like, “Hey, nice pictures on QRZ!” or “I’ve been to your city once”? The desire for more social interaction and deeper connections often leaves me wanting more.
The Rise of JS8Call
Enter JS8Call, a digital mode and software that takes the best of FT8 and adds a whole new dimension to our hobby. JS8Call offers the same robust, weak-signal performance as FT8 but with the added ability to send free text messages. This means you can have real conversations, share personal stories, and make meaningful connections with fellow operators around the world.
For those familiar with WSJT-X or FLDIGI, you’ll feel right at home with the JS8Call software. It maintains the user-friendly interface and integrates seamlessly with your existing setup. You’ve got your radio set up for WJST-X? Fine, you can then start JS8Call without further changes to your radio.
But JS8Call isn’t just about individual conversations; it also includes innovative network functions that allow for group messaging and topic-based subscriptions. Imagine being part of a global community where you can share experiences, participate in group discussions, and relay messages across vast distances.
Why JS8Call Deserves Your Attention
- Enhanced Social Interaction: JS8Call allows you to go beyond basic signal reports and engage in meaningful conversations. Whether you want to compliment someone’s QRZ profile or share travel stories, JS8Call makes it possible.
- Robust Performance: Like FT8, JS8Call excels in weak signal conditions. You can make reliable contacts even when propagation is poor, ensuring you stay connected with the amateur radio community.
- Versatile Communication: With JS8Call, you can send messages to individual stations or participate in group chats. The software’s network functions enable you to join or create groups focused on specific topics, enhancing the collaborative spirit of amateur radio.
- Broad Frequency Range: While JS8Call is popular on 20m and 40m bands, it’s equally effective on 10m, 15m, 80m, and 6m bands. By using JS8Call across different frequencies, we can ensure a vibrant and active community on all amateur radio bands.
Call to Action: Join the JS8Call Revolution
To all my fellow amateur radio enthusiasts, I invite you to explore the possibilities that JS8Call offers. Download the software ( LINK to Download of latest versions ), fire up your rigs, and start experimenting with this versatile mode. Share your experiences, connect with others, and spread the word about JS8Call. Together, we can create a thriving, interconnected community that spans all amateur radio bands.
Imagine a world where every QSO is not just a fleeting exchange but a memorable interaction. With JS8Call, that world is within our reach. Let’s embrace the future of amateur radio communication and take JS8 to all the bands, not only to 20m or 40m. Let’s make contacts also on 6m, 10m, 15m and so on. Give it a try.
Overview of frequencies for JS8
Here you find an overview of all frequencies for JS8 to quick-start operating this great mode:
| Band | Frequency |
| 160 meter band | 1.842 Mhz |
| 80 meter band | 3.578 Mhz |
| 40 meter band | 7.078 Mhz |
| 30 meter band | 10.130 Mhz |
| 20 meter band | 14.078 Mhz |
| 17 meter band | 18.104 Mhz |
| 15 meter band | 21.078 Mhz |
| 12 meter band | 24.922 Mhz |
| 10 meter band | 28.078 Mhz |
| 6 meter band | 50.318Mhz |