diff --git a/INSTALL b/INSTALL index cd2d0f48d..02055eeaf 100644 --- a/INSTALL +++ b/INSTALL @@ -28,7 +28,7 @@ For MS Windows see the section "Building from Source on MS Windows" below. For Apple Mac see the section "Building from Source on Apple Mac". -Qt v5, preferably v5.1 or later is required to build WSJT-X. +Qt v5, preferably v5.5 or later is required to build WSJT-X. Qt v5 multimedia support and serial port is necessary as well as the core Qt v5 components, normally installing the Qt multimedia @@ -86,7 +86,7 @@ instead the main code line is in a branch at ^/branches/wsjtx $ mkdir -p ~/wsjtx-prefix/build $ cd ~/wsjtx-prefix -$ svn checkout svn://svn.code.sf.net/p/wsjt/wsjt/branches/wsjtx src +$ git clone git://git.code.sf.net/p/wsjt/wsjtx src To build WSJT-X you will need CMake and asciidoc installed. @@ -336,7 +336,7 @@ First fetch the source from the repository: $ mkdir -p ~/wsjtx-prefix/build $ cd ~/wsjtx-prefix -$ svn checkout svn://svn.code.sf.net/p/wsjt/wsjt/branches/wsjtx src +$ git clone git://git.code.sf.net/p/wsjt/wsjtx src this links to the Subversion repository in a read-only fashion, if you intend to contribute to the project then you probably want to get a @@ -405,7 +405,7 @@ Updating and Rebuilding WSJT-X To update to the latest sources type: $ cd ~/wsjtx-prefix/src -$ svn update +$ git pull $ cd ~/wsjtx-prefix/build $ cmake --build . $ cmake --build . --target install diff --git a/NEWS b/NEWS index d1b187ebb..8caea2fad 100644 --- a/NEWS +++ b/NEWS @@ -10,9 +10,402 @@ \$$ \$$ \$$$$$$ \$$$$$$ \$$ \$$ \$$ -Copyright 2001 - 2015 by Joe Taylor, K1JT. +Copyright 2001 - 2018 by Joe Taylor, K1JT. + Release: WSJT-X Version 1.9.1 + June 1, 2018 + ----------------------------- + +This critical bug fix release repairs an unintended restriction in the FT8 +DXpedition mode. It supersedes v1.9.0 and must be used for DXpedition Fox +operators. + + + Release: WSJT-X Version 1.9.0 + May 28, 2018 + ----------------------------- + +Changes from WSJT-X Version 1.9.0-rc4 include the following: +- Display in the right text window of MSK144 messages addressed to + "MyCall" has been restored. + +- Fox is not allowed to transmit in any of the default FT8 sub-bands. + +- Fox can now work Hounds using compound callsigns. + +- Fox can now transmit free-text messages (and any standard FT8 message) + by using Tab 1 or Tab 2. + +- Added a checkbox to enable more frequent programmed CQs by Fox. + Default is OFF. + +- Alt+N keyboard shortcut has been restored. + +- MacOS program crash on unexpected decode request has been fixed. + + +- Several minor bug fixes and added convenience features. + +- Hamlib, support for TRXManger added. + +- Hamlib, improved support for flrig. + + + Release: WSJT-X Version 1.9.0-rc4 + April 30, 2018 + --------------------------------- + +Changes from WSJT-X Version 1.9.0-rc3 include the following: + +- Corrected a number of flaws in Fox and Hound behavior, FT8 + DXpedition Mode + +- Decoded CQ calls where a prefix has been used as a suffix should + have the DXCC entity name assigned correctly in almost all cases + +- Improved AFC capability for the wider JT65 sub-modes to help with + drifting signals + +- Better support for macOS using hi-DPI Retina displays + +- New UDP message that allows external applications to highlight + decoded callsigns + +- Main-screen geometry and state of the "splitter" setting between its + two text windows is now properly restored after program restart. + +- New simulator jt49sim[.exe] replaces jt4sim and jt9sim + +- Correct S/N measurements for the JT9 slow/wide submodes + +- Other minor bug fixes + +- Updated copy of cty.dat + + + Release: WSJT-X Version 1.9.0-rc3 + March 18, 2018 + --------------------------------- + +Changes from WSJT-X Version 1.9.0-rc2 include the following: + +- Corrected a number of flaws in Fox behavior, FT8 DXpedition Mode + +- Allow Hounds to use compound callsigns + +- Write debugging information to FoxQSO.txt. + +- Fix the "Blue Decode Button" bug + +- Allow partial processing of incoming UDP Reply messages so that + non-CQ/QRZ decodes can be processed. The processing is the same as + double-clicking the same decoded message within WSJT-X except that + "Enable Tx" will not be enabled. + +- Send DX grid locator to wsjt_status.txt, for use by applications like + PstRotatorAZ + +- Correct the display of DXCC status of KG4 calls + +- Updated copy of cty.dat + +- Updates to documentation + +- Other minor bug fixes + +- This release contains updated Hamlib functionality including changes + to the Yaesu FT-817 back end that allows the uBITx kit transceiver + to be CAT controlled by WSJT-X. + + + + Release: WSJT-X Version 1.9.0-rc2 + February 26, 2018 + --------------------------------- + +Changes from WSJT-X Version 1.8.0 include the following: + +- New FT8 DXpedition Mode to facilitate high QSO rates in pileup + situations + +- Decoding improvements for JT65 mode, including a priori (AP) + decoding when VHF/UHF/Microwave features are enabled + +- Optional Auto-Sequencing in JT4, JT9, and JT65 when + VHF/UHF/Microwave features are enabled + +- Better suppression of low-confidence false decodes generated by AP + decoding in FT8 mode + +- Improved decoding performance for WSPR mode, especially effective at + LF and MF + +- Minor adjustments to auto-sequencing behavior + +- More flexible Doppler control features for EME + +- Improved waterfall sensitivity for very weak signals + +- Automatic real-time forwarding of logged information to N1MM Logger+ + +- Expanded and improved UDP messages sent to companion programs + +- Bug fixes and other minor tweaks to user interface + +A primary purpose of this beta release is to allow field testing of +FT8 DXpedition Mode. Instructions for this mode are posted here: + +http://physics.princeton.edu/pulsar/k1jt/FT8_DXpedition_Mode.pdf + +Contacts in FT8 DXpedition Mode must use WSJT-X v1.9.0 at both ends of +the QSO. Please report any anomalous behavior to email list +wsjt-devel@lists.sourceforge.net. You must be a subscriber in order +to post there. + + + Release: WSJT-X Version 1.8.0 + October 27, 2017 + ----------------------------- + +This is the full General Availability release of WSJT-X Version 1.8.0. + +Changes from WSJT-X Version 1.8.0-rc3 are very minor: + + - Right-click on the Wide Graph now pops up a Context Menu. Select + the item *Set Rx & Tx Offset* to complete a one-handed setting of + both red and green frequency markers. + + - Several clarifications and additions to Tool Tips and the User Guide. + + +We recommend that all users should upgrade to WSJT-X Version 1.8.0. + +If you upgrade from v1.8.0-rc1 it may be necessary to do a one-time +reset of the default list of suggested operating frequencies. Go to +*File->Settings->Frequencies*, right click on the table and select +*Reset*. + + + Release: WSJT-X Version 1.8.0-rc3 + October 16, 2017 + --------------------------------- + +Most (but not all) changes since Version 1.8.0-rc2 involve user +control of the increasingly popular FT8 mode. The "RC3" release also +includes minor bug fixes and updates to the WSJT-X User Guide. + +The following list includes all of the more important changes: + +- New optimization of GUI for simplex and split behavior in FT8 mode. + + 1. Checkbox "Lock Tx Freq" on main window is relabeled "Hold Tx Freq". + + 2. Double-clicking on decoded messages that do not contain your own + call moves both Rx and Tx frequencies. If the first callsign is + your own call, only Rx freq moves. + + 3. Double-clicking on decoded messages moves the Rx frequency. If + "Hold Tx Freq" is checked, Tx frequency is moved only if CTRL was + held down. + + 4. Clicking on the waterfall moves Rx and Tx frequencies as + before: Rx only on a simple click, Tx only on SHIFT-click, and + both on CTRL-click. This happens even if "Hold Tx Freq" is + checked. + +- Add a semi-automated "FreqCal" procedure: see *Solve for calibration +parameters* on the Tools menu. + +- Improv auto-sequencing behavior: stop and on-frequency +transmission if a called station comes back to someone else. + +- Improve S/N estimation in some situations involving QRM. + +- Fix an initialization issue with user-modified application fonts. + +- Fix an issue with Tx5 message generation with Type 2 compound calls. + +- Enhance and improve the ADIF parser of logbook records. Update +the band limits as per ADIF 3.0.6 specification. + +- Increase the FT8 DT range to +/- 2.5 s. + +- Do not allow window manager events to close the astronomical data +window. + +- Add an "Erase" item to the context (right-click) menu for decoded +text. + +- Extend UDP messages with an "off air" boolean field indicating that +the decode was derived from a .WAV file playback rather than an on air +reception. + +- Extend reference applications to use the new off air decode message +field. + +- Improve performance of FT8 decoder, especially for overlapping +signals. + +- Allow specialized use of "x2 Tone Spacing" in FT8 and slow JT9 +modes. + +- Move "NA VHF Contest Mode" checkbox to main screen. Query the +operator if d > 10000 km. + +- Adjust UI to improve portability with font size changes and between +platforms. + +- Extend UDP Reply message to support keyboard modifiers. This allows +UDP servers to emulate keyboard modified double-clicks on decoded +messages, e.g. ALT+double-click for replying to a CQ or QRZ call +without changing ones Tx frequency offset. + +- Update the cty.dat file (21st Sept 2017). + +- Ensure that Fast Graph is properly initialized. + +- Better handling of worked before and country name display. Appended +text is added at a fixed column unless the message overlaps in which +case the appended information floats to the right. + +- Restore printing of MSK144 decode quality information. + +- Display Echo Graph automatically when Echo mode is started. + +- Fix a bug that prevented double-click on a JT65 EME-style "OOO" +message from populating the Tx message boxes. + +- Fixed behavior with double-click on 'CQ .' + +- Update the "blank line" divider with band ID at 4*TRperiod/5. + +- Fix cty.dat lookups that were not honouring exact match flags + +- Add some further Copyright protections. + +- Fix a bug involving "firstcall contains mycall" but not equal to mycall. + +- Fix an issue with editing IARU regions in the working frequencies table. + + + + + Release: WSJT-X Version 1.8.0-rc2 + September 2, 2017 + --------------------------------- + +Implementation of FT8 and its auto-sequencing feature is now more +capable and more polished. The decoder is faster and better: it now +includes signal subtraction, multi-pass decoding, and the use of +accumulated "a priori" information as a QSO progresses. Sensitivity +extends downward as far as -24 dB in some circumstances. Overlapping +signals 2 and 3 deep are frequently decoded at essentially the same +frequency. On a crowded band we sometimes see more than 30 decodes in +a single 15-second interval, over a 2 kHz window. The North American +VHF Contesting Mode has been extended to include both FT8 and MSK144 +modes. + +The "RC2" release also includes many minor bug fixes and an +extensively updated WSJT-X User Guide. + +Depending on what code revision you upgrade from, it may be necessary +to do a one-time reset of the default list of suggested operating +frequencies. Go to *File->Settings->Frequencies*, right click on +the table and select *Reset*. + + + Release: WSJT-X Version 1.8.0 + ----------------------------- + +NEW FEATURES IN WSJT-X Version 1.8.0 +------------------------------------ + +1. New mode called FT8: sensitivity down to -20 dB on the AWGN + channel; QSOs 4 times faster than JT65 or JT9; auto-sequencing + includes an option to respond automatically to first decoded + reply to your CQ. + +2. New mode for accurate Frequency Calibration of your radio. + +3. Improved performance of decoders for JT65, QRA64, and MSK144. + MSK144 includes facilities for amplitide and phase equalization + and an "SWL" mode for short-format messages. + +4. Options to minimize screen space used by Main and Wide Graph + windows. + +5. Enhanced management scheme for table of operating frequencies, and + a new set of default frequencies specific to the three IARU + Regions. + +6. Improved CAT control for many rigs, including those controlled + through Commander or OmniRig. + +7. New keyboard shortcuts to set "Tx even/1st" ON or OFF. + +8. A number of (mostly minor) bug fixes and tweaks to the user + interface. For example: new behavior for the audio level slider; + correctly logged QSO start times in certain situations; correct + control of FT-891/991 and some other radios via rigctld. + +At the time of the v1.8.0-rc1 release the following tasks are yet to +be completed: + +1. Updates to WSJT-X User Guide. +2. Sample files for FT8. +3. Enhanced decoding using AP ("a priori") information. +4. Signal subtraction and multi-pass decoding. +5. Option to Auto-respond to the weakest responder to your CQ. + + +Installation packages for Windows, Linux, OS X, and Raspbian can be +downloaded from the WSJT web site: +http://physics.princeton.edu/pulsar/K1JT/wsjtx.html + +Please send bug reports to either wsjtgroup@yahoogroups.com or +wsjt-devel@lists.sourceforge.net. Such reports should include a full +prescription of steps to reproduce the undesired behavior. You must +be a subscriber to post to either of these lists. + + + Brief Description of the FT8 Protocol + ------------------------------------- + +WSJT-X Version 1.8.0 includes a new mode called FT8, developed by K9AN +and K1JT. The mode name "FT8" stands for "Franke and Taylor, 8-FSK +modulation". FT8 uses 15-second T/R sequences and provides 50% or +better decoding probability down to -20 dB on an AWGN channel. An +auto-sequencing facility includes an option to respond automatically +to the first decoded reply to your CQ. FT8 QSOs are 4 times faster +than those made with JT65 or JT9. FT8 is an excellent mode for HF +DXing and for situations like multi-hop E_s on 6 meters, where deep +QSB may make fast and reliable completion of QSOs desirable. + +Some important characteristics of FT8: + + - T/R sequence length: 15 s + - Message length: 75 bits + 12-bit CRC + - FEC code: LDPC(174,87) + - Modulation: 8-FSK, tone spacing 6.25 Hz + - Constant-envelope waveform + - Occupied bandwidth: 50 Hz + - Synchronization: 7x7 Costas arrays at start, middle, and end + - Transmission duration: 79*1920/12000 = 12.64 s + - Decoding threshold: -20 dB; several dB lower with AP decoding + - Multi-decoder finds and decodes all FT8 signals in passband + - Optional auto-sequencing and auto-reply to a CQ response + - Operational behavior similar to JT9, JT65 + +We plan to implement signal subtraction, two-pass decoding, and use of +a priori (AP) information in the decoder. These features are not yet +activated in v1.8.0. + +We haven't yet finalized what the three extra bits in the message +payload will be used for. Suggestions are welcome! + + -- Joe, K1JT, for the WSJT Development Team + WSJT-X v1.6.0 Release Notice ============================ diff --git a/README b/README index 05aff9480..67a2e432f 100644 --- a/README +++ b/README @@ -11,7 +11,7 @@ -Copyright (C) 2001 - 2017 by Joe Taylor, K1JT. +Copyright (C) 2001 - 2018 by Joe Taylor, K1JT. WSJT-X is a computer program designed to facilitate basic amateur radio communication using very weak signals. The first four letters in @@ -57,7 +57,7 @@ QSOs and Echo testing. The program runs equally well on Windows, Macintosh, and Linux systems, and installation packages are available for all three platforms. -WSJT-X is an open-source project released under the GPL license (See +WSJT-X is an open-source project released under the GPLv3 license (See COPYING). If you have programming or documentation skills or would like to contribute to the project in other ways, please make your interests known to the development team. The project’s source-code diff --git a/Release_Notes.txt b/Release_Notes.txt index eefd39deb..f728ed1bf 100644 --- a/Release_Notes.txt +++ b/Release_Notes.txt @@ -1,410 +1,2 @@ - __ __ ______ _____ ________ __ __ -| \ _ | \ / \ | \| \ | \ | \ -| $$ / \ | $$| $$$$$$\ \$$$$$ \$$$$$$$$ | $$ | $$ -| $$/ $\| $$| $$___\$$ | $$ | $$ ______ \$$\/ $$ -| $$ $$$\ $$ \$$ \ __ | $$ | $$| \ >$$ $$ -| $$ $$\$$\$$ _\$$$$$$\| \ | $$ | $$ \$$$$$$/ $$$$\ -| $$$$ \$$$$| \__| $$| $$__| $$ | $$ | $$ \$$\ -| $$$ \$$$ \$$ $$ \$$ $$ | $$ | $$ | $$ - \$$ \$$ \$$$$$$ \$$$$$$ \$$ \$$ \$$ - - - -Copyright 2001 - 2018 by Joe Taylor, K1JT. - - - - - Release: WSJT-X Version 1.9.1 - June 1, 2018 - ----------------------------- - -This critical bug fix release repairs an unintended restriction in the FT8 -DXpedition mode. It supersedes v1.9.0 and must be used for DXpedition Fox -operators. - - - Release: WSJT-X Version 1.9.0 - May 28, 2018 - ----------------------------- - -Changes from WSJT-X Version 1.9.0-rc4 include the following: -- Display in the right text window of MSK144 messages addressed to - "MyCall" has been restored. - -- Fox is not allowed to transmit in any of the default FT8 sub-bands. - -- Fox can now work Hounds using compound callsigns. - -- Fox can now transmit free-text messages (and any standard FT8 message) - by using Tab 1 or Tab 2. - -- Added a checkbox to enable more frequent programmed CQs by Fox. - Default is OFF. - -- Alt+N keyboard shortcut has been restored. - -- MacOS program crash on unexpected decode request has been fixed. - - -- Several minor bug fixes and added convenience features. - -- Hamlib, support for TRXManger added. - -- Hamlib, improved support for flrig. - - - Release: WSJT-X Version 1.9.0-rc4 - April 30, 2018 - --------------------------------- - -Changes from WSJT-X Version 1.9.0-rc3 include the following: - -- Corrected a number of flaws in Fox and Hound behavior, FT8 - DXpedition Mode - -- Decoded CQ calls where a prefix has been used as a suffix should - have the DXCC entity name assigned correctly in almost all cases - -- Improved AFC capability for the wider JT65 sub-modes to help with - drifting signals - -- Better support for macOS using hi-DPI Retina displays - -- New UDP message that allows external applications to highlight - decoded callsigns - -- Main-screen geometry and state of the "splitter" setting between its - two text windows is now properly restored after program restart. - -- New simulator jt49sim[.exe] replaces jt4sim and jt9sim - -- Correct S/N measurements for the JT9 slow/wide submodes - -- Other minor bug fixes - -- Updated copy of cty.dat - - - Release: WSJT-X Version 1.9.0-rc3 - March 18, 2018 - --------------------------------- - -Changes from WSJT-X Version 1.9.0-rc2 include the following: - -- Corrected a number of flaws in Fox behavior, FT8 DXpedition Mode - -- Allow Hounds to use compound callsigns - -- Write debugging information to FoxQSO.txt. - -- Fix the "Blue Decode Button" bug - -- Allow partial processing of incoming UDP Reply messages so that - non-CQ/QRZ decodes can be processed. The processing is the same as - double-clicking the same decoded message within WSJT-X except that - "Enable Tx" will not be enabled. - -- Send DX grid locator to wsjt_status.txt, for use by applications like - PstRotatorAZ - -- Correct the display of DXCC status of KG4 calls - -- Updated copy of cty.dat - -- Updates to documentation - -- Other minor bug fixes - -- This release contains updated Hamlib functionality including changes - to the Yaesu FT-817 back end that allows the uBITx kit transceiver - to be CAT controlled by WSJT-X. - - - - Release: WSJT-X Version 1.9.0-rc2 - February 26, 2018 - --------------------------------- - -Changes from WSJT-X Version 1.8.0 include the following: - -- New FT8 DXpedition Mode to facilitate high QSO rates in pileup - situations - -- Decoding improvements for JT65 mode, including a priori (AP) - decoding when VHF/UHF/Microwave features are enabled - -- Optional Auto-Sequencing in JT4, JT9, and JT65 when - VHF/UHF/Microwave features are enabled - -- Better suppression of low-confidence false decodes generated by AP - decoding in FT8 mode - -- Improved decoding performance for WSPR mode, especially effective at - LF and MF - -- Minor adjustments to auto-sequencing behavior - -- More flexible Doppler control features for EME - -- Improved waterfall sensitivity for very weak signals - -- Automatic real-time forwarding of logged information to N1MM Logger+ - -- Expanded and improved UDP messages sent to companion programs - -- Bug fixes and other minor tweaks to user interface - -A primary purpose of this beta release is to allow field testing of -FT8 DXpedition Mode. Instructions for this mode are posted here: - -http://physics.princeton.edu/pulsar/k1jt/FT8_DXpedition_Mode.pdf - -Contacts in FT8 DXpedition Mode must use WSJT-X v1.9.0 at both ends of -the QSO. Please report any anomalous behavior to email list -wsjt-devel@lists.sourceforge.net. You must be a subscriber in order -to post there. - - - Release: WSJT-X Version 1.8.0 - October 27, 2017 - ----------------------------- - -This is the full General Availability release of WSJT-X Version 1.8.0. - -Changes from WSJT-X Version 1.8.0-rc3 are very minor: - - - Right-click on the Wide Graph now pops up a Context Menu. Select - the item *Set Rx & Tx Offset* to complete a one-handed setting of - both red and green frequency markers. - - - Several clarifications and additions to Tool Tips and the User Guide. - - -We recommend that all users should upgrade to WSJT-X Version 1.8.0. - -If you upgrade from v1.8.0-rc1 it may be necessary to do a one-time -reset of the default list of suggested operating frequencies. Go to -*File->Settings->Frequencies*, right click on the table and select -*Reset*. - - - Release: WSJT-X Version 1.8.0-rc3 - October 16, 2017 - --------------------------------- - -Most (but not all) changes since Version 1.8.0-rc2 involve user -control of the increasingly popular FT8 mode. The "RC3" release also -includes minor bug fixes and updates to the WSJT-X User Guide. - -The following list includes all of the more important changes: - -- New optimization of GUI for simplex and split behavior in FT8 mode. - - 1. Checkbox "Lock Tx Freq" on main window is relabeled "Hold Tx Freq". - - 2. Double-clicking on decoded messages that do not contain your own - call moves both Rx and Tx frequencies. If the first callsign is - your own call, only Rx freq moves. - - 3. Double-clicking on decoded messages moves the Rx frequency. If - "Hold Tx Freq" is checked, Tx frequency is moved only if CTRL was - held down. - - 4. Clicking on the waterfall moves Rx and Tx frequencies as - before: Rx only on a simple click, Tx only on SHIFT-click, and - both on CTRL-click. This happens even if "Hold Tx Freq" is - checked. - -- Add a semi-automated "FreqCal" procedure: see *Solve for calibration -parameters* on the Tools menu. - -- Improv auto-sequencing behavior: stop and on-frequency -transmission if a called station comes back to someone else. - -- Improve S/N estimation in some situations involving QRM. - -- Fix an initialization issue with user-modified application fonts. - -- Fix an issue with Tx5 message generation with Type 2 compound calls. - -- Enhance and improve the ADIF parser of logbook records. Update -the band limits as per ADIF 3.0.6 specification. - -- Increase the FT8 DT range to +/- 2.5 s. - -- Do not allow window manager events to close the astronomical data -window. - -- Add an "Erase" item to the context (right-click) menu for decoded -text. - -- Extend UDP messages with an "off air" boolean field indicating that -the decode was derived from a .WAV file playback rather than an on air -reception. - -- Extend reference applications to use the new off air decode message -field. - -- Improve performance of FT8 decoder, especially for overlapping -signals. - -- Allow specialized use of "x2 Tone Spacing" in FT8 and slow JT9 -modes. - -- Move "NA VHF Contest Mode" checkbox to main screen. Query the -operator if d > 10000 km. - -- Adjust UI to improve portability with font size changes and between -platforms. - -- Extend UDP Reply message to support keyboard modifiers. This allows -UDP servers to emulate keyboard modified double-clicks on decoded -messages, e.g. ALT+double-click for replying to a CQ or QRZ call -without changing ones Tx frequency offset. - -- Update the cty.dat file (21st Sept 2017). - -- Ensure that Fast Graph is properly initialized. - -- Better handling of worked before and country name display. Appended -text is added at a fixed column unless the message overlaps in which -case the appended information floats to the right. - -- Restore printing of MSK144 decode quality information. - -- Display Echo Graph automatically when Echo mode is started. - -- Fix a bug that prevented double-click on a JT65 EME-style "OOO" -message from populating the Tx message boxes. - -- Fixed behavior with double-click on 'CQ .' - -- Update the "blank line" divider with band ID at 4*TRperiod/5. - -- Fix cty.dat lookups that were not honouring exact match flags - -- Add some further Copyright protections. - -- Fix a bug involving "firstcall contains mycall" but not equal to mycall. - -- Fix an issue with editing IARU regions in the working frequencies table. - - - - - Release: WSJT-X Version 1.8.0-rc2 - September 2, 2017 - --------------------------------- - -Implementation of FT8 and its auto-sequencing feature is now more -capable and more polished. The decoder is faster and better: it now -includes signal subtraction, multi-pass decoding, and the use of -accumulated "a priori" information as a QSO progresses. Sensitivity -extends downward as far as -24 dB in some circumstances. Overlapping -signals 2 and 3 deep are frequently decoded at essentially the same -frequency. On a crowded band we sometimes see more than 30 decodes in -a single 15-second interval, over a 2 kHz window. The North American -VHF Contesting Mode has been extended to include both FT8 and MSK144 -modes. - -The "RC2" release also includes many minor bug fixes and an -extensively updated WSJT-X User Guide. - -Depending on what code revision you upgrade from, it may be necessary -to do a one-time reset of the default list of suggested operating -frequencies. Go to *File->Settings->Frequencies*, right click on -the table and select *Reset*. - - - Release: WSJT-X Version 1.8.0 - ----------------------------- - -NEW FEATURES IN WSJT-X Version 1.8.0 ------------------------------------- - -1. New mode called FT8: sensitivity down to -20 dB on the AWGN - channel; QSOs 4 times faster than JT65 or JT9; auto-sequencing - includes an option to respond automatically to first decoded - reply to your CQ. - -2. New mode for accurate Frequency Calibration of your radio. - -3. Improved performance of decoders for JT65, QRA64, and MSK144. - MSK144 includes facilities for amplitide and phase equalization - and an "SWL" mode for short-format messages. - -4. Options to minimize screen space used by Main and Wide Graph - windows. - -5. Enhanced management scheme for table of operating frequencies, and - a new set of default frequencies specific to the three IARU - Regions. - -6. Improved CAT control for many rigs, including those controlled - through Commander or OmniRig. - -7. New keyboard shortcuts to set "Tx even/1st" ON or OFF. - -8. A number of (mostly minor) bug fixes and tweaks to the user - interface. For example: new behavior for the audio level slider; - correctly logged QSO start times in certain situations; correct - control of FT-891/991 and some other radios via rigctld. - -At the time of the v1.8.0-rc1 release the following tasks are yet to -be completed: - -1. Updates to WSJT-X User Guide. -2. Sample files for FT8. -3. Enhanced decoding using AP ("a priori") information. -4. Signal subtraction and multi-pass decoding. -5. Option to Auto-respond to the weakest responder to your CQ. - - -Installation packages for Windows, Linux, OS X, and Raspbian can be -downloaded from the WSJT web site: -http://physics.princeton.edu/pulsar/K1JT/wsjtx.html - -Please send bug reports to either wsjtgroup@yahoogroups.com or -wsjt-devel@lists.sourceforge.net. Such reports should include a full -prescription of steps to reproduce the undesired behavior. You must -be a subscriber to post to either of these lists. - - - Brief Description of the FT8 Protocol - ------------------------------------- - -WSJT-X Version 1.8.0 includes a new mode called FT8, developed by K9AN -and K1JT. The mode name "FT8" stands for "Franke and Taylor, 8-FSK -modulation". FT8 uses 15-second T/R sequences and provides 50% or -better decoding probability down to -20 dB on an AWGN channel. An -auto-sequencing facility includes an option to respond automatically -to the first decoded reply to your CQ. FT8 QSOs are 4 times faster -than those made with JT65 or JT9. FT8 is an excellent mode for HF -DXing and for situations like multi-hop E_s on 6 meters, where deep -QSB may make fast and reliable completion of QSOs desirable. - -Some important characteristics of FT8: - - - T/R sequence length: 15 s - - Message length: 75 bits + 12-bit CRC - - FEC code: LDPC(174,87) - - Modulation: 8-FSK, tone spacing 6.25 Hz - - Constant-envelope waveform - - Occupied bandwidth: 50 Hz - - Synchronization: 7x7 Costas arrays at start, middle, and end - - Transmission duration: 79*1920/12000 = 12.64 s - - Decoding threshold: -20 dB; several dB lower with AP decoding - - Multi-decoder finds and decodes all FT8 signals in passband - - Optional auto-sequencing and auto-reply to a CQ response - - Operational behavior similar to JT9, JT65 - -We plan to implement signal subtraction, two-pass decoding, and use of -a priori (AP) information in the decoder. These features are not yet -activated in v1.8.0. - -We haven't yet finalized what the three extra bits in the message -payload will be used for. Suggestions are welcome! - - -- Joe, K1JT, for the WSJT Development Team - +The content of this file has been moved to the NEWS file, please add +release note updates to that file.