====== Digital mode ======

Digital modes encode information so a receiver or computer can decode it. They range from keyboard conversations to packet networks, image transmission and short weak-signal messages.

===== A typical station =====

Many computer-assisted modes use a transceiver, a computer and an audio or data interface. Important setup details include audio levels, transmit control, frequency settings and the time synchronisation required by the selected mode.

===== Examples =====

  * [[ft8|FT8]] and **FT4:** structured, short-message modes provided by WSJT-X.
  * **WSPR:** weak-signal beacon reporting, used to observe propagation paths.
  * **RTTY and PSK:** families of keyboard communication modes.
  * [[packet_radio|Packet radio]]: data communication organised into packets, used for several amateur applications.

Digital modes have different purposes and operating conventions. Document the exact software version, settings and mode when describing a result.

===== Further reading =====

  * [[https://wsjt.sourceforge.io/wsjtx.html|WSJT-X project and user documentation]].
  * [[https://www.aprs.org/|APRS information]].