FT8 Code of Practice

FT8 Intercontinental DX to/from Europe

Recommended protocol for 50.323 MHz

Why 50.323 MHz?

During the Northern Hemisphere Summer Es season, 50.313 MHz for FT8 contacts has become very congested, especially in Europe. Stations are increasingly using 50.323 MHz for intercontinental DX working.

In order not to cause QRM to each other, and to permit the most efficient use of FT8 for weak-signal DX, it is highly desirable for stations to operate in compatible transmit windows.

Working with 50 MHz operators in Japan, UKSMG has prepared these guidelines for contacts to and from Europe on 50.323 MHz.

Recommended Transmit Protocol

European Stations
Transmit in the even periods
00  •  30
seconds past each minute
Asian & North American Stations
Transmit in the odd periods
15  •  45
seconds past each minute
Important Please do not use 50.323 MHz for working stations within your own continent. Europeans working other Europeans is strongly discouraged.

FT8 Operating Guide

For additional detailed information, the excellent FT8 operating guide by ZL2IFB is highly recommended.

What About 50.313 MHz?

The proposed protocol is also recommended for intercontinental DX only to and from Europe on 50.313 MHz.

Please note

Although the reservation of 50.323 MHz for intercontinental DX is strongly recommended for global adoption, the timing protocol described here is not intended to apply to contacts that do not involve Europe.

For example, contacts between North America and Japan are outside the scope of this European timing recommendation.

Comments & Suggestions

Any comments or suggestions are welcome. Please email G3ZYY or use the comments form below.

Last updated: 17 July 2021
UKSMG • FT8 Intercontinental DX

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