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Digital modes have always interested my, since I discovered that 10w in PSK (as a M3 operator) put you on a level playing field with many other operators. PSK was easy to configure, and using mixw provided many hours of fun. It was also nice listen to music, and operate from the computer unlike any phone communication. MIXW provided a stable basis for me to experiment with other data modes, and I found some of the "least popular" to be the most interesting. Hellschreiber . Much credit must go to Murray Greenman ZL1BPU and his great book Digital modes for all occasions. You can find this online from the RSGB book shop, it takes you over most of the digital modes and clearly lays out both the pros and cons. Murray has a great website, and you can read more about Hellschreiber online. I would also suggest you check the Hellschreiber website, designed specifically to promote this mode. Data mode software Mixw and Ham Radio Deluxe both provide access to many data modes, although many others are available. See Google for a complete list. Once you have the program / software to decode digital modes you will need to make or purchase a interface lead. This will allow your audio to be connected from the radio to the laptop and visa versa. You may want to add CAT control, and some more sophisticated interface leads / control allow you to use FSK RTTY. You can purchase data leads online from G4ZLP or G3LIV Or you may want to make your own. John M0UKD has a great design on his website. Next consideration must be operating modes / methods. I found for serious data mode operation I needed to be able to control the size of band pass. This can be done quite easily if your radio has built in filters, and allows you to better resolve weak signals. I also use the RTTY filter built into the Icom 756p2. Want to read more about the Icom 756p3 and RTTY contesting ? One thing that sets this radio apart from the competition is the RTTY twin peak filter.
I have included a screen shot showing how the filters in the Icom work, and also a picture of the Rigexpert sounds card / data interface that I currently use. You can make your own interface cable by checking out this page.
Promote activity in digital modes on 30 meters (10 MHz). I have recently built a 10 Mhz vertical antenna, using a roach pole and 23ft wire. The vertical works very well, and at only 23 ft fits into the smallest garden. You can purchase a "roach pole "at most radio rallies for £15 to £20. 10 MHz provides a change to play digital modes only, and also contest free !
73 and enjoy your digital modes. Dave M0TAZ
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