Question T4A04
From subelement T4 - T4A
How are the transceiver audio input and output connected in a station configured to operate using FT8?
Why is this correct?
B is correct because FT8 requires WSJT-X software to encode and decode the digital signals. The transceiver's audio output connects to the computer's audio input to send received signals for decoding, while the computer's audio output connects to the transceiver's audio input to send encoded FT8 transmissions. Options A, C, and D reference outdated packet radio equipment, non-existent hardware, or websites that don't handle the actual signal processing that WSJT-X performs.
Memory tip
Look for the software name in FT8 questions - WSJT-X is the standard. FT8 questions typically involve computer audio connections, not specialized hardware interfaces. The bidirectional audio connection pattern (radio audio out → computer in, computer audio out → radio in) appears across many digital mode questions.
Learn more
FT8 operates as a weak signal digital mode designed for challenging propagation conditions like Earth-Moon-Earth communication and meteor scatter. The WSJT-X software suite handles the complex digital signal processing that enables FT8's remarkable sensitivity - it can decode signals 20 dB below the noise floor. This requires precise timing synchronization and sophisticated error correction algorithms that only dedicated software can provide, explaining why simple audio interfaces work where traditional packet radio required specialized terminal node controllers.
Think about it
Why do you think FT8 can work with simple audio connections when older digital modes required specialized interface hardware?