2m FT8

OK, I admit it. I am lazy!

As it saved unplugging the lead from my SignaLink USB to the rig, I went on 2m FT8 using the FT817ND rather than the FT991A, so power was 2.5W. Even so, my brief FT8 CQ was spotted by 5 stations with best being GI6ATZ (479km) in N. Ireland at -16dB S/N. G7RAU (461km) in Cornwall seems to spot me every time! I should try with 100mW to see if he still spots me!

On 2m FT8 RX the best station spotted here was G1BHM (355km). Again, I am just using the big-wheel omni antenna.

UPDATE 1528z: Now 19 stations in 6 countries spotted on 2m FT8 RX in the last few hours.

UPDATE 1606z: Now 22 stations in 6 countries spotted so far this afternoon on 2m FT8 RX. My very recent 2.5W FT8 CQ was again spotted in N. Ireland and Cornwall. I am sure the 43 element at G7RAU must help!

2m FT8 RX so far today.

UPDATE 2002z: Now 37 stations in 8 countries spotted in the last 5 hours on 2m FT8 RX using the FT817ND and the big-wheel omni antenna. Best DX today on 2m FT8 RX is DK6JU (529km).