HF Modes
There are so many ways to communicate on HF. Whether you love the rhythm of Morse code or the technology of digital modes, there's something here for everyone.
The Spectrum of Possibilities
The HF bands have been the heart of amateur radio for decades. These frequencies bounce off the ionosphere, which lets you talk to stations thousands of miles away. It never gets old.
Voice (Phone)
Voice is still the most personal way to connect. Whether you're having a long chat with a new friend or racing through contacts in a contest, SSB and AM modes keep the human element alive on HF.
- SSB (USB/LSB)
- AM Operations
Morse Code (CW)
Morse code has been around since the beginning. It cuts through noise better than anything else and works with signals you can barely hear. Many operators find it becomes a passion once they learn it.
- 100% Efficiency
- Timeless Skill
Digital Data
Connect your computer to your radio and you open up a whole new world. Modes like FT8, RTTY, and PSK31 let you work the globe with just a few watts of power.
- FT8 / FT4
- VarAC / JS8Call
01010110
Processing Signal
Working Weak Signals
FT8 and similar modes have changed the game. You can now make contacts with signals buried so deep in the noise that you can't even hear them. It's amazing what modern software can pull out of poor band conditions.
Want to Try HF?
W3ACH members use all these modes regularly. Come to a field day or workshop and see them in action. We'll help you get started with whatever interests you.