Digital fashions like FT8, FT4, Q65 whether 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 – a project created by Joe Taylor K1JT, Steve Franke K9AN, Bill Somerville G4WJS and other contributors.
In addition to the official version, an experimental modification with the name appeared WSJT-X_IMPROVED, managed by Uwe Risse, DG2YCB. This software is based on the original WSJT-X, but brings many improvements, new features and more frequent updates, including faster bug fixes. In the following paragraphs, we will introduce its functions, benefits and possibilities of use in detail.
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Experimental version with an open license
WSJT-X_IMPROVED is released under license GNU GPL v3, which means it's free and open source software that you can download, explore, and modify. Download and installation packages can be found on the project page at 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 experimental version – so users should use it at their own risk.
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:
- Message highlighting CQ and 73/RR73
Dôležité správy vo vašom logu budú vizuálne odlíšené, čo urýchľuje reakciu pri nadväzovaní spojení. -
AL interface with activated Band Hopping function 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.
- 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. - 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 to monitor coverage. - Optimized decoders for DX operation
Improved algorithms increase the success of decoding weak or distant stations. - More frequent updates and new Hamlib files
Hamlib provides radio control - more frequent updates mean better support for new devices. - 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) without loss of sensitivity.
- Diagnostic mode
Allows data to be collected to troubleshoot software or radio communication issues. -
Optional column display for Tx and Rx audio frequencies on a wide spectrum (similar to JTDX) 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.
- PLUS version
It includes additional features such as sound alerts or support Cloudlog-u.
Other practical gadgets
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WSJT-X IMPROVED in dark mode Dark mode – 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 also for JT65 and JT9 – simplification of work in older modes.
- Update Hamlib directly from the program (Windows).
- Measurement of PWR and SWR during transmission and automatic TX shutdown at SWR > 2.5.
- Buttons for quick band selection – 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
Since it is about experimental software, autor odporúča jeho používanie na vlastné riziko. Pred inštaláciou je vhodné zálohovať Settings 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.
| Function / Property | WSJT-X (original) | WSJT-X_IMPROVED |
|---|---|---|
| Development and maintenance | Official development by team K1JT, K9AN, G4WJS and others, stable updates | Enhanced version by DG2YCB, more frequent updates and faster bug fixes |
| User interface (GUI) | Standard layout | 3 variants: standard, AL (optimized for small displays) and widescreen with a larger Band Activity window |
| Message highlighting | Standard CQ highlight | Additional highlighting of CQ and 73/RR73 messages |
| Mode switches | Only through the menu | Direct buttons for switching modes (including quick transition to Hound mode) |
| Band hopping | Nope | Automatic switching of bands/modes (FT8, FT4, Q65, MSK144) according to selected frequencies |
| Optimization of decoders | Standard sensitivity | FT8/FT4 decoder optimized for DX operation |
| Fake decodings | Possible occurrences | FDR function – significantly reduces false decoding without loss of sensitivity |
| Competitive CQ | "CQ TEST" | Option to use a specific competition name (e.g. "CQ PACC") |
| Controlling the waterfall | Setting the frequency through the menu | A direct right-click on the waterfall will set the Tx frequency |
| Brand search | Via external menu | Double-clicking the Lookup button will open QRZ.com with the call sign from the DX Call field |
| Dark mode | Nope | Switchable dark mode directly from the main window |
| Auxiliary functions | Basic AutoSeq | "Wait and Reply" and "Wait and Call" - smarter connection completion |
| Full Duplex mode | Nope | Yes (useful for satellite operation) |
| AutoSeq for JT65/JT9 | Nope | Yes |
| Hamlib update | Updates with the new version | Ability to update Hamlib directly from the program (Windows) |
| Measurement of PWR and SWR | Nope | Displays power and SWR during TX, automatically stops TX when SWR > 2.5 |
| More extensions | — | PLUS version s doplnkovými funkciami (audio upozornenia, Cloudlog podpora atď.) |
| License | GNU GPL v3 | GNU GPL v3 (experimental version, use at your own risk) |
It's worth a try - and maybe thanks to it you'll discover new possibilities in the world of digital amateur radio connections.