Hello all

[VK4WDM]

Hello Again Dave

FT8 is the "flavor of the year" for digital modes, last year it was JT65, who knows what it will be next year? There is still some PSK and quite a lot of RTTY. The rest of the modes tend to be used by smaller dedicated groups. As you have picked up on, FT8 is easy to use and effective but like JT65, a bit robot-like and soulless, but it is keeping the bands active during this time poor conditions and identifying some surprising propagation paths and band openings on both on HF and VHF.  I find it useful to look at the FT8 signal reports and when they are reasonably high, try CW or SSB.

You don't have to have the PC directly connected to the transceiver to run digital unless you are using modes like Echolink (lot of fun) where the net is part of the signal path, but a direct connection does allow easy setting of accurate PC time that is essential for digital operations. Having said that, I find that an accurate mobile phone works well enough to set the time. You are going to need an interface between the transceiver and the PC. Probably the most common one in use, and the easiest one to use IMO is the "Signalink USB."

Having said all that about digital stuff, I agree that the VHF scene could do with a big stir-up so see what you can stir up down there. Hams are still wanting to learn CW. Maybe you could get some together for a tutorial net on 2m (but not on 144.1 ).

How to work you on 2m during the summer E season, yep will do CW but a bit slow these days.

Hello Wayne,

I have enough trouble trying to identify modes like msk, olivia,  etc, etc,  rtty is easy and psk also.   No CW on 144.100,??  that's where it gets confusing, according to the WIA 144.100 to 144.400 is CW / SSB, 144.100 is a national primary calling frequency, and 144.200 is secondary,  so I'm guessing 2 mtr users have adjusted  their own rules,   but it make it hard when you try to follow WIA designated frequencies,   is it possible WIA have never updated their Frequency lists ????.  144.220 to 144.240 digital DX modes.
Any way I do hope to catch up with you and the others on 2 mts 

Dave   VK3FDT

Sorry about the confusion.  144.1 and 144.2 are still the calling frequencies for both SSB and CW, but after making contact there the best practice is to QSY to another frequency. What I meant was, if you do establish a CW net don't continue the net on 144.1  

73

Wayne VK4WDM