WSJT-X IMPROVED by DG2YCB

Digitálne módy ako FT8, FT4, Q65 či MSK144 today they are among the most used forms of amateur radio communication. Their popularity lies in the ability to transmit information even with very weak signals and in the tools that allow radio amateurs to quickly establish connections around the world. One of the key software that makes these mods available is WSJT-X – projekt vytvorený Joeom Taylorom K1JT, Stevom Franke K9AN, Billom Somervilleom G4WJS a ďalšími spolupracovníkmi.

In addition to the official version, an experimental modification with the name appeared WSJT-X_IMPROVED, ktorú spravuje Uwe Risse, DG2YCB. Tento softvér vychádza z originálneho WSJT-X, ale prináša množstvo vylepšení, nových funkcií a častejšie aktualizácie, vrátane rýchlejšieho odstraňovania chýb. V nasledujúcich odsekoch si podrobne predstavíme jeho funkcie, prínosy a možnosti využitia.

Experimental version with an open license

WSJT-X_IMPROVED is released under license GNU GPL v3, čo znamená, že ide o slobodný softvér s otvoreným zdrojovým kódom, ktorý si môžete stiahnuť, skúmať a upravovať. Stiahnutie a inštalačné balíky nájdete na stránke projektu na SourceForge. Users can join the discussion and share experiences through the e-mail conference available here.

Although the author states that he is not aware of negative effects, he warns that it is about experimentálnu verziu – používatelia by ju teda mali používať na vlastné riziko.

WSJT-X_IMPROVED main features and improvements

WSJT-X_IMPROVED brings several practical functions that make operation more efficient, improve clarity and add new options:

1. Message highlighting CQ a 73/RR73
   Dôležité správy vo vašom logu budú vizuálne odlíšené, čo urýchľuje reakciu pri nadväzovaní spojení.

2. 

   Three different graphical user interfaces (GUIs)

   • WSJT-X standard interface.
   • Alternative layout ("AL") optimized for small screens and laptops.
   • A wide-angle version with an extended "Band Activity" window for a better overview of what's happening on the band.
3. Fast mode switching
   With the help of buttons, it is possible to easily change frequently used modes without having to call up the menu. In "Hound" mode, simply tune to the correct DX station frequency, press the "H" button and perform QSO.
4. Band Hopping for FT8, FT4, Q65 and MSK144
   The new card allows you to mark the desired bands and modes and automatically switch between them every two minutes. The function is perfectly usable together with the service PSKReporter na monitorovanie pokrytia.
5. Optimized decoders for DX operation
   Improved algorithms increase the success of decoding weak or distant stations.
6. More frequent updates and new Hamlib files
   Hamlib provides radio control - more frequent updates mean better support for new devices.
7. Adjustments for greater comfort
   • Removed the text next to the "Control" checkbox in the Wide Graph window to avoid accidental ticking.
   • Ability to call CQ with the name of a specific contest instead of the general "TEST".
   • Reducing false decodes with a function False Decodes Reduction (FDR) bez straty citlivosti.
8. Diagnostic mode
   Allows data to be collected to troubleshoot software or radio communication issues.

9. 

   Control directly from the waterfall

   • Right click on the waterfall to set the Tx audio frequency.
   • Double-click the Lookup button to search for the call sign on QRZ.com.
10. PLUS version
    It includes additional features such as sound alerts or support Cloudlog-u.

Other practical gadgets

• 

  Tmavý režim – can be turned on directly in the main window, with the recommendation of pastel colors for highlighting.

• Wait and Reply / Wait and Call – smart features that help complete QSOs without unnecessary continuous transmission.
• Full Duplex Mode – ideal for satellite operation when you need to transmit and receive at the same time.
• AutoSeq aj pre JT65 a JT9 – simplification of work in older modes.
• Update Hamlib directly from the program (Windows).
• Meranie PWR a SWR počas vysielania and automatic TX shutdown at SWR > 2.5.
• Tlačidlá na rýchly výber pásma – practical for frequent switching.

Who is WSJT-X_IMPROVED for?

This extended version is of interest to radio amateurs who:

• want to access the latest features and fixes faster than in the official WSJT-X,
• will appreciate the customizable user interface,
• operate multiple modes and bands and use automated switching,
• they need specific functions, such as reduction of false decodes or Full Duplex operation.

For beginners, WSJT-X_IMPROVED may be attractive mainly due to better clarity and more intuitive controls. More experienced operators will appreciate advanced options and a wider range of settings.

Risks and recommendations

Keďže ide o experimental software, autor odporúča jeho používanie na vlastné riziko. Pred inštaláciou je vhodné zálohovať nastavenia a logy z oficiálneho WSJT-X, aby ste sa mohli v prípade potreby jednoducho vrátiť späť.

The advantage is the active community on SourceForge, where you can find advice, solutions to problems and information about new releases.

Conclusion

WSJT-X_IMPROVED represents an interesting alternative to the official WSJT-X. It brings new features, practical improvements and more frequent updates, thanks to which the operation of digital modes can be even more efficient and convenient. Whether you're a beginner looking for a cleaner interface or a seasoned DX-man who wants to have the latest tools at his disposal, WSJT-X_IMPROVED has something for everyone.

It's worth a try - and maybe thanks to it you'll discover new possibilities in the world of digital amateur radio connections.