10 Apr 2023

160m FT8 (Monday)

 As my earth-electrode "antenna" is now matched, I am currently using it on 160m FT8 with 10W from the FT-710. No spots, although I am not surprised in daylight. I must double check on the 160m FT8 frequency in Europe. I have never tried FT8 on topband. I have used WSPR in the past. Currently I am on 1840 kHz FT8, which seems right.

UPDATE 1120z: This looks a useful resource for digital modes in Europe. See https://www.pa8s.nl/knowledge-base/frequencies-for-digital-modes/ 

Spots of me at 1814z
UPDATE 1814z:  Back on 160m FT8 with the earth electrode "antenna" in the ground. Running about 10W from the FT-710. 7 spots of me with the furthermost SM3PXO (1485km). Still daylight here for another hour. Oh yes, it works!!

UPDATE 1856z: 15 stations in 7 countries have so far spotted my 10W FT8 on 160m this evening in the daylight. And the antenna is invisible to my XYL!

UPDATE 2005z: My first FT8 QSO on topband with GM8IEM (753km). Although I was in beacon mode and not answering calls earlier, I see I was called by several stations including one in Denmark. 21 stations have spotted me tonight Now QRT on 160m FT8.

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