What is PSK31?
Translated literally, it's an acronym for "Phase Shift Keying, 31 Baud". PSK31 is a form of modulation (or "mode") that offers a new and higher level of performance in conversational communications (keyboard-to-keyboard) that we "hams" (amateur radio operators) can enjoy. And it's been made instantly usable by all of us, due in part to the proliferation of the personal computer, and in part to the superb and generous efforts of some very talented ham/programmers.
Since the spring of 1999, PSK31 has taken off like wildfire. What seems to be so attractive is that for very little investment, a simple station can achieve virtually flawless communications under very adverse conditions. This new mode also seems to have been made for the ham who might be hampered by an indoor, or less than optimum antenna. There are numerous reports of solid two-way communication when the signal is barely audible from the speaker.
PSK31 requires a standard ham station, a computer with a SoundBlaster 16 compatible card, some free software and a very simple four component circuit if you wish the computer to control TR switching .
In the short time that PSK31 has been in use, its popularity has grown by leaps and bounds. It may in time replace or at least greatly supplant RTTY and other modes for person-to-person communications. It's fun, easy, and well worth the effort to get set up, which is not very much at all.
It should come as no surprise that the PC is transforming the way we operate. Think about it, in your little PC you've got one of the most powerful tools for digital signal processing, spectrum analysis, database, logging, and much more.
Programs to get you on Psk31 down loadable from WARC Site
Winpsk 209 windows psk program
p31sbw Peter Martinez, G3PLX.
Where to Find PSK 31 Signals
The calling frequencies
that have been decided upon for the time being are:
1838.15kHz, 3580.15kHz, 7070.15kHz, 7035.15kHz, 14070.15kHz, 21080.15kHz, 28120.15kHz,
50.290mHz, 144.144mHz, 222.07mHz, 432.2mHz, 909mHz and
10137.15kHz, 18100.15kHz and 24925kHz suggested for the WARC Bands.
What it sounds like
More information links to other sites
Psb info another way to report PSK31
http://aintel.bi.ehu.es/psk31.html
http://www.qsl.net/wm2u/psk31.html
http://det.bi.ehu.es/~jtpjatae/pdf/p31g3plx.pdf
suggested interface PC sound card to radio
The above circuit is recommended for use in SSTV applications with use of the sound card with a computer. This is the JVComm style of interface. This circuit may also be used for RTTY and PSK31 applications. Many users modify the above circuit to include 1:1 isolation transformers within the Speaker out and Line-in or microphone in lines. These isolation transformers are used to preclude ground loops within a system from introducing hum and interference on the transmitted signals.
Many of the Warrington club are active on PSK31 and the club station has PSK31 capability so we look forward to seeing you on the mode.
page updated 21st April 2003 by g4vss@amsat.org