FT8 Code of Practice
FT8 Intercontinental DX to/from Europe
Recommended protocol for
50.323 MHz
During the Northern Hemisphere Summer Es season, 50.313 MHz for FT8 contacts has become very congested, especially in Europe, and 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/from Europe on 50.323 MHz.
- European stations to transmit in the “even” periods. That is 00 and 30 seconds past each minut
- Asian and North American stations to transmit in the odd periods. That is 15 and 45 seconds past each minute.
For additional detailed information, the excellent FT8 operating guide by ZL2IFB is highly recommended:
The proposed protocol is also recommended for intercontinental DX (only) to/from Europe on 50.313. But note that, although the reservation of 50.323 for intercontinental DX is strongly recommended for global adoption, the timing protocol described here is not intended to apply to contacts not involving Europe, such as those between North America and Japan.
Any comments or suggestions please email to g3zyy@uksmg.org or use the comments form below.
Last updated: 17 Jul 2021