JS8Call

JS8Call started as an experiment in combining the robustness of FT8 (a weak-signal mode by K1JT) with a messaging and network protocol layer for weak signal communication.

The open source software is designed for connecting amateur radio operators who are operating under weak signal conditions and offers real-time keyboard-to-keyboard messaging, stored (inbox) messaging, message relay, and automatic station announcements.

JS8Call is heavily inspired by WSJT-X, Fldigi, and FSQCall and would not exist without the hard work and dedication of the many developers in the amateur radio community.

Features

• Weak signal communication down to -24dB SNR
• Keyboard-to-keyboard messaging and QSOs
• Store and forward messaging via relays
• Automatic station spotting via APRS-IS
• Heartbeat and CQ monitoring
• Multi-speed modes: Slow, Normal, Fast, Turbo
• Cross-platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Free and open source (GPLv3)

Resources

• Source:
  • Official Repository: js8call/js8call
  • Development: js8call-improved/js8call-improved
• Downloads:
  • Version 2.3.1 (official)
  • Version 2.4 (improved)
• Groups.io: JS8Call Discussion Group
• Documentation: JS8Call Guide

About

JS8Call was originally developed by Jordan Sherer, KN4CRD and now includes a community of developers, including W6BAZ, K0OG, AC9KH and more. The software has received multiple awards including the 2020 Hamvention Technical Achievement Award and the 2021 Amateur Radio Software Award.