[wsjt-devel] FT8: Potential new mode for fast QSOs

[Joe T. <jo...@pr...>]

Dear Development Colleagues,

Steve (K9AN) and I have developed a potential new mode for WSJT-X. 
We're calling the mode "FT8" (Franke-Taylor design, 8-FSK modulation).

FT8 is designed for situations like multi-hop Es where signals may be 
weak and fading, openings may be short, and you want fast completion of 
reliable, confirmable QSOs.

Important characteristics of FT8:

   - T/R sequence length: 15 s
   - Message length: 75 bits + 12-bit CRC
   - FEC code: LDPC(174,87)
   - Modulation: 8-FSK, keying rate = tone spacing = 5.86 Hz
   - Waveform: Continuous phase, constant envelope
   - Occupied bandwidth: 47 Hz
   - Synchronization: three 7x7 Costas arrays (start, middle, end of Tx)
   - Transmission duration: 79*2048/12000 = 13.48 s
   - Decoding threshold: -20 dB (perhaps -24 dB with AP decoding, TBD)
   - Operational behavior: similar to HF usage of JT9, JT65
   - Multi-decoder: finds and decodes all FT8 signals in passband
   - Auto-sequencing after manual start of QSO

*Comparison with slow modes JT9, JT65, QRA64:*  FT8 is a few dB less 
sensitive but allows completion of QSOs four times faster.  Bandwidth is 
greater than JT9, but about 1/4 of JT65A and less than 1/2 QRA64.

*Comparison with fast modes JT9E-H:*  FT8 is significantly more 
sensitive, has much smaller bandwidth, uses the vertical waterfall, and 
offers multi-decoding over the full displayed passband.

*Still to come, not yet implemented:*  We plan to implement signal 
subtraction, two-pass decoding, and use of "a priori" (already known) 
information as it accumulates during a QSO.

Three extra bits are available in the message payload, with uses yet to 
be defined.  We have in mind special message formats that might be used 
in contests, and the like.  Your considered suggestions for use of these 
bits are very welcome!

K1JT, K9AN, and G4WJS have conducted on-the-air tests of FT8 with 
excellent results.  We're now at a stage where tests under a wider range 
of conditions are desirable.  If you can build WSJT-X from source code 
revision r7750 or later, and would like to help, please do so and report 
your results to us!  Pre-built installation packages will be made 
available after further testing is completed.

Suggestions for FT8 setup and examples of use can be found in a screen 
shot posted here: http://physics.princeton.edu/pulsar/k1jt/ft8.png

We look forward to receiving your feedback.

	-- 73, Joe, K1JT