23 Jan 2014

JT65B on 2m

This evening I had an unsuccessful JT65B sked on 2m with G4DCV in Aldershot. I was using WSJT 9.7 software. Although I could hear his JT65B tones well (and his CW) I could not once decode his callsign in JT65B despite Paul using 200W. Later I checked with GB3VHF and was easily able to copy callsign and QTH locator in JT65B mode. I shall have to try this mode again until  I succeed. I have used JT65-HF successfully on several occasions. Paul could receive me despite me using just 2W to a halo at around 135km.Several times the WSJT 9.7  reported a runtime error and closed the program.

If anyone has any ideas why I did not decode Paul's transmissions please let me know.

10 comments:

  1. I had a similair issue with WSJT-X. Whatever I tried some stations didn't decode. I suspect Paul has to choose for direct-X as soundcard in/output. Of course he should have the latest direct-X drivers installed. It did the trick for me. 73, Bas

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  2. I was using WSJT 9.7 software. If worked with GB3VHF (JT65B mode) and may have been due to sound card selection (I use a SignaLink USB interface). Will repeat test soon. Apparently one has to rs-start when settings changed. 73s Roger G3XBM

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  3. It's not your choice of soundcard but the choice of the station that you trying to receive. I made that mistake myself as well. Later I didn't understand that after installing direct-X drivers you actually have to choose them in the WSJT soundcard settings. Luckely I don't get any "no decode" anymore since choosing the right settings. 73, Bas

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  4. With Paul's higher power, you may have got some grief from aircraft reflections. Any hint of that on the display?

    Tim G4VXE

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  5. Tim, pretty sure it was "finger trouble" at my end. This evening a sked with G3WKW was more successful with Bob's call copied OK.

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  6. Beginning to think more power is needed on 2m to get the best from the band.

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  7. Good news, Roger. Probably a bit more power will be helpful, although your low power will work well when the band is in good shape! Unfortunately I only have a vertical up for 2m at the moment but will happily try JT65B with you some time.

    73, Tim G4VXE

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  8. Yes, we should try JT65B Tim. I also have a V2000 vertical that I could use with you.

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  9. Excellent Roger! Perhaps next weekend? I'll email you!

    Tim G4VXE

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  10. Tim (G4VXE) yes please email me to fix up a sked on 2m JT65B. Give me time and frequency and whether you will TX even or odd . I can run to my vertical V2000 so we use same polarisation

    73s
    Roger G3XBM

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