Digital Decoding; Getting started With

[BOBRR]

Hello,

Want to start learning about digital decoding.
Have a SDRPlay RSP-2, and will (probably) be using Console, which I am just getting started with.

A few basic questions, please:

a. What is the mode for Acars ? I read that it is am, but I can't understand how it can be both am and also digital ?

b. Same for HFDL; what mode ?

c. For now, I would be very happy to just be able to decode most any digital utility "stuff".

Are there any suggested freq's that are very strong and likely that I might pick up ? Live outside of Boston.

Perhaps other Aero. (ADS ?), or Maritime, or...?

Thank you,
Bob

 

[ka3jjz]

Yes, both HFDL and ACARS are AM. And yes, these are digital.

From our Digital Decoding FAQ here's a list of clear targets you can try for, and since I see you joined the UDXF, there will be lots that will be reported. The HFDL table linked here is a tad old, as a new site in South Korea just opened, but this should still be usable;

https://wiki.radioreference.com/index.php/Testing_Your_New_Setup

Mike

 

[BOBRR]

Hi Mike,

As always, much thanks for help.
Just what I was looking for.

Regards,
Bob

 

[ka3jjz]

I should add that while HFDL is an AM mode, it is usually necessary to tune it in USB to present the correct tones to the decoder, whichever you are using.....Mike