Decoding and SoundMAX

[SkipSanders]

Discovered that if you're using a computer to decode ACARS or other digital stuff via soundcard, the SoundMAX software that runs sound for some computers' internal audio has an option under 'Preferences/Microphone' to select 'noise reduction'.

Despite what it may appear, this affects ALL inputs when selected as the 'record' input, not just microphones!

And it most definitely messes up digital soundcard decoders if it's on. Using Poc32, I had 55-60% accurate decode with it on, which went to 99.5% accuracy when I turned it off.

Not sure exactly how much it will mess up ACARS, but you should check to make sure any such 'helpful' features of your soundcard are turned off, for decode use.

 

[jonny290]

It's actually a big issue for radio buffs. Many sound cards on both input and output have all kids of 3d audio/DSP crap, and all that stuff does is hose up the phase and amplitude of our audio signals.

Good note.

 

[eorange]

Not sure exactly how much it will mess up ACARS

I can tell you - a LOT!

Thanks so much for this post. I've never had great results decoding ACARS since I built this machine a few years ago - with an ASUS motherboard - with SoundMAX!

Of course, my noise reduction was "ON". I turned it off and now I'm decoding ACARS as I type with MUCH more success than I've ever had. As in, I have a screenful of ACARS messages, which has never happened before.

Thinking back, I am sure this is why I've gotten lousy results with POC32 and PDW too.

Way to go!!