Are you into creating Amateur Radio Digital Modes via your personal computer (PC)? Then you’re in the right place. We recently came across a tool known as Fldigi (Fast Light Digital Modem Application) and while we’re no expert, we still came away with a lot to say.
OK, so here’s the thing about Fldigi you need to know. It works in conjunction with HF SSB radio transceiver. Furthermore, it takes advantage of the PC sound card as its primary means of contribution from the radio. As for the software, it controls the radio from another connection, and from what we can tell, it appears to be a serial port.
We like the fact that Fldigi is a multi-mode program, which means it can operate several popular digital modes without ever having to switch programs, and that’s great in more ways than just one. We also like the fact that the tool comes with support for popular modes such as DominoEX, MFSK16, PSK31, and RTTY.
Fldigi digital mode tool for all radio amateurs
If you’re a radio amateur and looking to get your hands on a digital mode tool, then we’d like to recommend Fldigi. It’s fast, and most importantly, free.
- Use the configuration wizard
- File
- Configure
- Logbook
Let us talk about this in more detail:
1] Use the configuration wizard
The wizard is important because it was designed to guide the user through the basic settings. Bear in mind that everything done here can be changed later, so don’t worry too much about making any mistakes right now.
We didn’t make a lot of changes during the configuration, because, in truth, we’re no experts. But we did do what we could and it turned out decent enough.
2] File
The file tab is pretty significant because it contains several key features. You see, this is where the user will gain access to all important folders. Furthermore, if you want to save or open macros, then this is the place to go.
In terms of capturing text and audio, these features are available under the File tab as well.
3] Configure
For those who weren’t pleased with the outcome after using the Configuration Wizard, then this is the spot for making a lot of changes to set Fldigi to fit your needs. From here, the user can make changes to the user interface, the Rig, sound card, how things operate, and more.
Once you’re done with the configuration, be sure to hit the save button secure the changes before closing the tool.
4] Logbook
It’s always great when developers create programs with a logbook as one of the key features. The one here is quite simple to use and understand, so just click on the Logbook tab and get things underway.
The option is also there via the Logbook section to connect to your personal server. Bear in mind that Fldigi does not provide one, which means, you’ll have to either pay for a server or create one from the comfort of your home.
Overall, what we have here is a decent program for creating digital radio, especially if you’re an amateur. You can download Fldigi directly from the official website.
