FT-818nd and WSJT-X 2.3.1 Configuration for FT8

Trying to get my FT-818nd working on FT-8 was an adventure. After much poking, then complaining and receiving choice hints on freenode's ##hamradio (find us now on Libera's #hamradio), I was able to come to the following conclusions that got me able to both decode and be spotted (no contacts, yet).

Rig programming in the settings menus.

  • 14 - CAT RATE: 38400 bps (for compatibility with Z-817 and, you know, speed)
  • 25 - DIG MIC: keep at 50
  • 26 - DIG MODE: set to USER-U

Need to set DIG MODE correctly to avoid processing on top of the signal. The default RTTY type mode results in processing that prevents WSJT-X from decoding properly.

Between the rig and the computer

  • xggcomms Yaesu USB Digimode Interface (Digimode-1-Yaesu option 1)
  • Behringer UCA222 sound card
  • Custom RCA to 3.5mm jacks between interface and sound card
    • Tip-to-tip, ring-to-none, shield-to-shield

Configuring WSJT-X 2.3.1 (now it actually has the FT-818 in the CAT list!) on macOS 10.14.6. Remember to check the latest README and install the shared memory object system configuration as required. This has changed in the last few versions. [Aside, if you're interested, I've requested this to be a port available on MacPorts, trac #61820]

  • Radio
    •   Yaesu FT-818
    •   Serial port: from the xggcomms port "/dev/cu.usbserial-AB4MTISP"
    •   Baud Rate: 38400
    •   Data Bits: default
    •   Stop Bits: default
    •   Handshake: default
    •   Force Control Lines: none
    •   PTT Method: RTS
      •   on "/dev/cu.usbserial-AB4MTISP"
    •   Transmit Audio Source: no selection allowed
    •   Mode: Data/Pkt
    •   Split Operation: None
  • Audio
    • Soundcard
    • Input: USB Audio CODEC, Left
    • Output: USB Audio CODEC, Both

Need to set Data/Pkt (for DIG mode operation) to allow using the rear panel TX. In USB mode, the rig is listening on the mic jack. With the correct setting in radio menu 26, that also means WSJT-X can hear correctly from the rig.

Optimize audio output level for ALC barely deflects - WSJT-X @-20 dB, system (Audio MIDI Setup.app) @-37 dB. This will be strongly system dependent since audio levels are no precision output.

Aesthetics for my waterfall in WSJT-X

  • Bins/Pixel 3, Start 0 Hz, N Avg 2
  • Set window wide enough for just over 3000 Hz visible

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