Version 2.0 of the fascinating propagation research program written by Joe Taylor, K1JT, WSPR is now available.
“WSPR implements a protocol designed for probing potential propagation paths with low-power transmissions. Normal transmissions carry a station’s callsign, Maidenhead grid locator, and transmitter power in dBm. The program can decode signals with S/N as low as -28 dB in a 2500 Hz bandwidth. Stations with internet access can automatically upload their reception reports to a central database called WSPRnet, which includes a mapping facility. To see a live version of the map pictured at top right, click here.
WSPR 2.0 introduces a number of new features including a user-friendly setup screen with drop-down selection of audio devices and rig-control parameters, support for compound callsigns, fine selection of the fractional time for transmitting, and a Tune button. A new Advanced setup screen offers optional CW identification and tools for frequency calibration and automated frequency corrections for your radio. Full details are presented in the WSPR 2.0 User’s Guide, which you will need to read in order to use the new features. For the first time, a binary installation package is made available for Ubuntu Linux (versions 8.10 and later), Debian 5.03, and other Debian-based 32-bit Linux distributions”