Explore the many ways to enjoy amateur radio — from weak-signal digital modes and satellite communication to portable park activations and off-grid mesh networking.
Digital Modes — FT8/FT4, PSK31, FLdigi
Weak-signal digital modes have revolutionized HF operating, enabling worldwide contacts with modest stations.
- WSJT-X (FT8 / FT4 / JT65) (Free) — The official software for FT8, FT4, JT65, and other weak-signal digital modes by K1JT. Windows, Mac, Linux.
WSJT-X Documentation — User guide, setup instructions, and the science behind weak-signal digital communication. - FLdigi (Free) — Multi-mode digital modem — PSK31, RTTY, Olivia, MFSK, Contestia, and dozens more. Cross-platform.
- PSKReporter — Real-time map of digital mode reception reports worldwide. See where your FT8/PSK signals are being heard.
CW & RTTY
Morse code remains the original digital mode. RTTY is the classic teletype mode still popular in contests.
- LCWO — Learn CW Online (Free) — Koch method CW trainer with adjustable speed, tracking, and community features.
- Morse Code World Trainer (Free) — Browser-based Morse practice with Farnsworth timing, word groups, and callsign practice.
- AA9PW Morse Code Practice (Free) — Audio Morse practice at multiple speeds with instant decoding feedback.
- RTTY Contesting Resources — Getting started with RTTY — setup guides, contest tips, and software recommendations.
EchoLink, DMR, D-Star & Fusion
Digital voice modes and internet-linked systems that extend your reach beyond local repeaters.
- EchoLink (Free) — VoIP linking software that connects repeaters and simplex stations worldwide via the internet.
- BrandMeister DMR Network — The largest global DMR network — talkgroups, repeater listing, and self-service hotspot registration.
- D-STAR for Beginners — This D-STAR for beginners guide walks you through every step to getting on the air.
- Yaesu System Fusion — Yaesu’s C4FM digital voice system — repeater search, Wires-X room directory, and equipment info.
Mesh & LoRa — Meshtastic & B.A.T.M.A.N.
Off-grid mesh networking is one of the fastest-growing areas where amateur radio meets maker culture.
- Meshtastic Project (Free) — Open-source LoRa mesh communicator — text, GPS, and telemetry over long range without cellular or internet.
- Meshtastic Documentation — Getting started guide, firmware flashing, device setup, and channel configuration for Meshtastic nodes.
- Meshtastic on GitHub — Source code, firmware, mobile apps, and community contributions for the Meshtastic project.
- B.A.T.M.A.N. Advanced (Free) — Better Approach To Mobile Ad-hoc Networking — Linux kernel mesh protocol used for amateur radio mesh and AREDN networks.
- AREDN Mesh Network (Free) — Amateur Radio Emergency Data Network — high-speed data mesh using Part 97 frequencies on commercial routers.
Satellites & Ballooning
Communicate through orbiting amateur satellites or track high-altitude balloon payloads.
- AMSAT — Radio Amateur Satellite Corp — Satellite status, pass predictions, operating guides, and news on amateur satellites worldwide.
- AMSAT Satellite Pass Predictions — Real-time tracking and pass prediction tool for all active amateur radio satellites.
- UKHAS — High Altitude Society — Comprehensive resources for high-altitude balloon launches — guides, trackers, and payload design.
- APRS.fi — Live APRS Map — Real-time APRS tracking map — ideal for monitoring HAB flights, vehicles, and weather stations.
- Gpredict Satellite Tracker (Free) — Open-source real-time satellite tracking and orbit prediction with Doppler and rotor control.