Digital modes
Radio is not only voice. Here are the most popular ham digital modes and what each is used for.
The big ones
| Mode | What it does | Where |
|---|---|---|
| FT8 and FT4 | Short automated contacts that work with very weak signals | HF and 6 m |
| APRS | Shares position and short messages on a map | 144.390 MHz in North America |
| Winlink | Email over radio, used in emergencies | HF and VHF |
| DMR | Digital voice with talkgroups across the world | VHF and UHF repeaters |
| D-STAR | Digital voice and data with call-sign routing | VHF and UHF repeaters |
| Yaesu System Fusion | Digital voice that also works with analog | VHF and UHF repeaters |
| Packet radio | Early radio data network, still used for bulletin boards | VHF and UHF |
| SSTV | Sends still pictures by radio | HF and VHF |
Getting started
- FT8 needs a radio, a computer or sound interface and free software called WSJT-X.
- APRS can start with a handheld that has a built-in tracker, or a phone app that listens only.
- Digital voice needs a radio for that mode, or a hotspot that links a small radio to the internet.
- Most of these modes are ham radio only. They are not part of GMRS.
Digital and GMRS
GMRS is meant mainly for voice. If you want to try data or digital modes on GMRS frequencies, read the current FCC Part 95 rules first. Ham radio is the place to experiment.
Off-grid text messaging
Mesh networks such as Meshtastic use small low-power radios on license-free frequencies to pass short text messages between phones, with no cell service needed. They are separate from GMRS and ham radio.
General information, not legal advice. Check the current FCC rules before you transmit.
