Amateur Radio Digital Modes: A Bridge Between Old and New

Digital modes aren’t really new in ham radio. RTTY and packet have been around for decades. What’s changed is how they’ve evolved right along with our computers and the internet age.

For newer hams, digital modes can feel like magic—your radio and computer team up to send text, images, or data around the world. For the old hands, it’s another tool in the shack, sometimes sparking debate over what counts as “real radio.” Either way, digital is here to stay.

So, what is a digital mode? Instead of your voice or Morse keying the transmitter, software generates tones that carry information. Your rig just sees it as audio, pushes it out, and on the other end another ham’s software decodes it back into text or data.

Basic configuration for working digital modes. Arrows in most setups actually go both to and from the radio and computer.

Popular Digital Modes

Right now, FT8 is the king of the hill. Love it or hate it, it’s efficient. You won’t chat about the weather, but you will snag DX with just a few watts and a wire.

Before FT8, PSK31 was the casual keyboard mode of choice. It’s still around and great for real conversations without hogging bandwidth. You’ll also hear JT65, Olivia, and MFSK, each designed to pull signals out of the mud.

And don’t forget Packet Radio. It may not dominate the bands anymore, but it powers APRS, which lets hams share positions, weather, and short messages. Handy for mobiles, hikers, and emergency work.

Why Try Digital?

For some, it’s about the thrill of DX. For others, it’s about pulling signals out of the noise when the human ear would hear nothing. Digital modes also shine in emergencies—moving accurate text and data when voice might fail.

And then there’s the fun stuff. SSTV (Slow Scan TV) lets you trade pictures over HF. Watching an image crawl across your screen line by line feels a bit like unwrapping a surprise.

Getting Started

Most modern HF rigs already have a USB port with built-in sound card support. Plug into your computer, grab free software like WSJT-X or FLdigi, and you’re on the air. Got an older rig? A cheap external interface gets the job done.

Bottom Line

Digital modes won’t replace SSB or CW, but they sure expand your options. Whether you’re a brand-new Tech or a seasoned Extra, there’s something in digital worth exploring.

So next time you’re tuning around, fire up some software and give it a shot. You might be surprised just how far your signal will travel when computers and radios work hand-in-hand.

Quick Start Tips for Digital Newbies

• Software to Try:

  • WSJT-X (FT8, FT4, JT65)

  • FLdigi (PSK31, Olivia, RTTY)

  • Direwolf (Packet, APRS)

• What You’ll Need:

  • Computer with sound card (most rigs with USB ports already cover this)

  • Free software (download from official websites)

  • A stable rig setup with proper audio levels

• Where to Listen:

  • FT8 activity: 14.074 MHz (20m), 7.074 MHz (40m)

  • PSK31: 14.070 MHz

  • SSTV: 14.230 MHz (20m)

• Pro Tip: Start with FT8—it’s the busiest mode and a great way to make quick contacts while learning how your setup works.

Have fun!