Better FT8 on the FT-891! Digirig Mobile Interface

I've always had a love-hate relationship with digital modes. That is, until I got the Digirig Mobile Interface. Now getting on FT-8 and the other data modes with the Yaesu Ft-891 is a piece of cake.
Digirig Mobile Interface: amzn.to/41YrDgF
Yaesu FT-8xx cable for the Digirig: amzn.to/3LNy6W7
Digirig Mobile website: digirig.net/
Digital menu settings for the Ft-891
08-01 Data Mode: others
08-02 PSK Tone: 1500
08-03 Other Disp: 1500
08-04 Other Shift: 1500
08-06 Data LCUT Freq: 300
08-07 Data HCUT Freq: 2800
08-09 Data In Select: Rear
08-10 Data PTT Select: DAKY
08-11 Data Out Level: 50
08-12 Data BFO: USB
16-03 HF PWR: 30
16-10 Data Mic Gain: 50
Front panel menu settings:
Automatic Gain Control (AGC): Off
Band Width (WDH): 3000 hz
Processor (PRC): Off
Digital Noise Reduction (DNR): OFF
Front Meter (MTR): ALC
Other super-handy FT8 and Yaesu FT-891 videos:
FT-891 buttons and functions: • Yaesu FT-891 Buttons a...
EASY Way to Setup FT8 on a Yaesu FT-891: • EASY Way to Setup FT8 ...
Ground Plane Antenna Screen: • Window screen antenna ...
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Tiemstamp
00:00 Introduction
00:20 Digirig Mobile Interface
02:41 How the Digirig Mobile Works
05:13 Using Digirig with WSJT-X
06:25 Configurating the FT-891 with the Digirig
08:00 Adjusting Audio Out and ALC on the FT-891
09:50 Dells of the Eau Claire River County Park
10:58 Getting on the Air with FT8
11:53 Conclusion
My Parks on the Air setup:
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#Hamradio #AmateurRadio #POTA #ParksOnTheAir #PortableHamRadio #FT8 #Digitalmode #YaesuFT891 #digirigmobile #digirig #WSJT #FT891

[@JKFlipFlop.]

I enjoy your videos and appreciate the bonus content about the parks.

[@Aimsport-video]

Wow. Comprehensive and concise. Awesome.

[@mrgotee]

Your video came at the perfect time. I got my Digirig about a week or so ago and still trying to get used to it.

[@hamradiobasics]

Fantastic video Michael ! You explained everything clearly and concisely. Going to order a DigiRig for the Ft-891 and get it going on FT8.

[@johnpeterson7264]

I just ordered the digirig and can’t wait to try it ! Thanks for posting detailed instructions for JT modes on the wonderful - but somewhat finicky - Yaesu .

[@weldonbradstreet1723]

Thanks for making this video, Michael, and for flagging it in your 10 best for 2023! Somehow I missed it when new. I'm an 891 user, and I plan on getting the DigiRig to use with Winlink when I'm remote camping. I usually advance scout my family's group camps by a couple of days before they join me, and this way I can just email folks our location from camp instead of driving to the nearest cell service connection.

[@procrusteus]

As a new FT-891 owner I want to thank you Michael, for this fantastic video. It isn't at all obvious how to set up digital modes and you saved me......probably days or even weeks of research. I ended up ordering a DigiRig immediately after watching the video and I am looking forward to some mobile operations in the future.

[@POTApugs]

Thank you for the tutorial Michael.

[@steveverhoef5667]

I had no idea, learned a lot there. Excellent job. How to try digital on the FT891 for the first time this summer

[@jacobaccurso]

Love my FT891 more and more with each of your videos. Once again, you’ve Violated the Basic Rule of leaving me in the dark by shining light on the things one can do with our hobby. 73! N7WRN (World Radio News)

[@user-hh4ly2xy6s]

Very helpful. I have my 891 setup with another audio device but bought the Digirig as an upgrade. With your video I feel a little more comfortable making the switch over. The old audio interface was starting to fail. Intermittent at times. So your timing was perfect! Thx

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

There isn't much difference when it comes to settings between the various digital interfaces. The goal is to get the widest audio bandwidth from the rig to the computer, so most of the adjustment is on the radio side.

[@Utahmark]

Thanks for a very well done, detailed video. I had no problems getting FT8 on my FT-891 ---- except ------ figuring out how to get drivers. But finally made and and having fun. Go POTA! !

[@gaptastic]

Thanks for the video. Like @Kallengar I am a new owner of an 891, but used it for SSB. I had a Digirig for my G90 and it's the same one (logic) so I'm gonna get the cables. I don't like that I have to buy both cables but maybe I can use the other at some point with another radio. One of the reasons I didn't go down the digital path with the 891 was cause it seemed extremely cumbersome. So I thank you again for sharing and documenting your setup. Peace!

[@elkabong6429]

Thanks for the demo!

[@douglasvamateurradioandmore]

Thank you for this video. I have written theses settings down and will keep them in my kit.

[@jamesflanagan6059]

This is the video I've been looking for...for a long time. I have all of the same hardware, just struggled with the settings on both my laptop and the radio. Thank you!

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I'm glad to hear it helped you out.

[@danielzdanowicz6899]

Nice video Micheal. Very informative. Nice park activation too. Beautiful country up there! Best 73's Dan K1YPB - On the air since 1962.

[@This_Month_In_History]

Good stuff, I just received mine today!

[@vetnet100]

very well done video...Thanks for all the great info!

[@m9ovich785]

Great Video Mike. I have not been to that Park in quite some time. I like what they did to the Bridge with it's repair. Mike M.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I think they replaced the bridge five years ago, but it is nice that they kept the stone facade instead of putting up a generic concrete structure.

[@LambertMatias]

Awesome! I have the digirig but have not used it yet. Il give it a go with my ft-891 after seeing this video. Thanks for sharing the activation at that awesome park! Cheers and 73!

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Glad you enjoyed it. That park is a favorite of mine, I've been going there since I was quite young.

[@daveN2MXX]

Excellent video. The digirig is an awesome device....I have used it with multiple radios, including a baofeng uv5r.

[@alexanderleon2465]

I just got a digi rig to run with my 817 and was wondering if it'd work with my 891 and then tadaaa you answered. Thanks you make the best videos

[@mike-ng9b81]

After struggling with the Signallink unsucessfully, I was able to get the Digirig to run the first time with your instructions!!! Thank you for your awesome content!!! 73, NG9B

[@maddogshamradio3407]

Ripper video mate!, Love your work! It is sad to see some negative comments about FT8. Where I’m living at the moment in a dense residential area my local noise level is commonly around S7. It makes it extremely difficult to hunt park activators on voice and CW. But the FT8 gets through and I can hunt the activators which is fantastic. When I activate a park in Australia I try to include some FT8/FT4 into the mix to be helpful to those who have RF noisy environments and it also helps the DX hunters. Cheers, Marty VK4KC

[@azarellediaz4892]

Thanks for this great, easy to follow overview of this little power tool. I’m new to the HAM, the 891, and interested on FT-8. This came just in time because I’m looking to what is available out there.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Of all the digital interfaces I've used over the years, the Digirig continues to be the easiest one to use with the FT-891.

[@JackRichardson-um4wr]

Informative. Thanks very much! Although your comment about the SignaLink troubles you’ve experienced with the ft891 is mystifying. I’ve used the FT891 + signalink combo for 3 years without a problem. Being able to quickly control the mic and rx audio levels with the signalink knobs is an advantage for my style.

[@davidcappello]

Nice video well done! Thanks for showing and sharing!!

[@FITFO]

This actually helped a lot. I’m using a different sound card with cat control but have been having trouble with the radio keying up but nothing being transmitted I’m hoping this should fix that issue

[@mattk7yeg682]

Thanks for this video, it was very helpful.

[@frankwc0o]

I agree. As well as the FT-857D. Great device, very little to configure - sort of.

[@douglasvamateurradioandmore]

This helped me alot for doing js8call

[@sphexes]

I think I'm going to get a Digirig. Thank you michael

[@brianmatthews232]

beautifully explained 🙂

[@storskegg]

I love that park. Used to go there with friends, and swim in some of the eddie pools. Well, I just hung out on the rocks, but still.

[@2E0RME]

In my experience the the 891 can sometimes be flakey with Yaesu's own SCU-17 too, so thanks for the upload.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

So I'm not the only one.

[@marsgal42]

I bought one of these a few weeks ago to talk to my 706MKIIG. I was startled at how small it was.

[@MrJimmy440]

Yes I look forward to more digital videos. I cannot for the life of me to get the DigiLink to work correctly with my FT-891. I cannot get my laptop to recognize any Com Ports that are used with it and this has been going on since last summer. Driver issues. They’re installed correctly and ready for use but the laptop will NOT recognize them. I’ve viewed dozens of videos including yours ti no avail. Please if his get the chance they’d be most informative I know. Cheers Jim K2WPA New Jersey

[@ssbb5962]

Great video! the WDH setting screwed me up for the longest till I figured it out. Not set right you wont hear anything or very little. 73

[@dhjenkins01]

Michael, Thank you for this video. Your stated mission is to educate the amateur radio community and that’s just what you do! You excel at providing clear and concise instruction. I’m a relatively new Ham and wanted to get into FT8. I have the same radio and sound card that you use, so your video was perfectly tailored to my needs; also, to the needs of a fellow club member. As a result of your training, I’ve now had confirmed QSOs with 47 states across 3 bands and 35 countries across 5 bands. I can’t imagine this happening with you. It’s been a blast! Thank you for your service to the radio community. David P. S. I do have a couple of questions that you might be able to help me with if you have time. 1. On your FT-891, when you move between bands, do you have to reset your WDH to wide? I do, and I’m guessing this normal, but wondering if this setting should remain at its last set value. 2. Also, if you use Grid Tracker, does the Call Roster feature respond to a CQ when you click the callsign? Mine doesn’t and I’m wondering if it’s the way we have the radio and Digirig set up. Thanks again for all your help and dedication to the radio arts.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I'm glad you found the video helpful and that it got you on the air with FT8. As for your questions. I don't have an answer to the 2nd one as I'm not a Gridtracker user. (I mostly do FT8 out in the field and Grid Tracker isn't as useful without an Internet connection). On the FT-891, when you change bands the Width (WDH) will always reset to its default state. That's 500hz on data and 2300hz on SSB. That's normal operation. In using FT8, you will need to open the width all the way to 3000 for effective operation every time you change a band. I moved my WDH button to one of the front panel buttons to make that process easier. On a side note, when the FT-891 was designed, the predominant data mode was PSK and the MSFK variants that ran well with a narrow filter. WSJT was not as popular at that time. It utilizes the entire passband so the filter adjustment from default settings is required.

[@stephenrichendefer8782]

Great setup Mike. I use the same in my Jeep but a slightly different setup. I use the CAT on the 891 via USB, and USB to the Digirig. Both are mounted under the back seat and go into a 4 port USB hub. From there one USB cable comes up to the area between the two front seats. Now when I plug the USB cable into my Evolve laptop I get all the same functions as I do when using my 7300 or my 7410 with both CAT and Audio. Has been working great. de KF3BH

[@michaelmichael8406]

Well now, *that's* pretty slick. I may just do the same.

[@thiyag_]

I do this as well.. I was confused with this video, so by having a single cable as shown in the video, changing frequencies has to be performed manually on the radio? Via a separate usb/cat that was happening automatically when you change the band drop down in the software.. hmmm I guess I still need both cables, for a second I got excited

[@michaelmichael8406]

@thiyag With the 991a, you grt CAT and sound over a single USB. I think the original 991 doesn't get sound that way, but the Digilink basically is a good quality USB sound card. So you can plug the Digilink and the radio's CAT control into the USB hub and leave that all in place, tucked away and neat. That plug the hub into the computer by a single USB cable when you want to us it. Not as slick as a single cabledirectly from radio to computer, but cheaper than buying g a new radio to save one cable.

[@thiyag_]

@@michaelmichael8406 got you, I have 3 digirigs.. I just got confused because I thought I could get some radio control over RTS that I missed(without the USB cable specifically for the 891).. 73s, NB2R

[@stephenrichendefer8782]

@@thiyag_ the way mine is setup as described above, I get full CAT control via the USB port, and use the Digirig for audio. I run the Digirig's USB connection and the 891 USB into a 4 port hub. That gives me one USB cable to run from the hub to the computer. Works like a charm.

[@kennethblackwell1137]

I have full CAT control with my FT-891....just hook up a printer cable between the 891 and the computer along with the DigiRig.

[@TI2GBB]

Michael excellent video. I will have to save some money to buy one of these digirig for my ft 891. 73s de TI2GBB 🇨🇷 ! Thanks to share what you have learned rned with others.

[@chrissewell1608]

I have used a SignaLink for several years, for use with my EchoLink Node. But, its a pain to haul into the field, and reset it, for use with my laptop PC! So, I just ordered a DigiRig, to use while in the field with my Evolve Maestro iii, laptop. (I just I ordered the right model, since I may use it on a variety of radios!) Leave my base station at home, and keep the mobile rig all together and seperate.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

That's a good idea. I've found that keeping shack and portable equipment separate, even though it means duplicating accessories is a good idea. Then you don't run the risk of leaving something at home because you took it out of your bag to use in the shack.

[@chrissewell1608]

@@KB9VBRAntennas It seems more costly, but much easier in the end!

[@dc5723]

Wow, Pre-Cambrian rocks, cool.

[@steveverhoef5667]

Thanks!

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Thank you for your support. It is greatly appreciated.

[@samuellourenco1050]

Having the CAT interface is useful as well, so you can control the frequency and have automated logging as well. However, I would set the PTT function through Digirig as you did, because if you happen to lose USB, your radio will not be stuck transmitting.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

That's the key benefit of CAT control. The problem with the FT-891 is that it requires a separate USB connection for CAT and when using other digital interfaces that connection dropping is what often caused me grief. I can deal with manually changing the frequency in WSJT if it means that I don't have to mess around with the CAT headache.

[@Philip-KA4KOE]

Works great on my 897

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Awesome! This setup should work with all of Yaesu's 8xx series transceivers including the 817, 818, 857, 891, and 897.

[@gregorysmith3097]

Great video. I'll be making use of this for my summer trip when I have no cell signal. SSB without being able to spot is frustrating sometimes. Question, where would you set up the park number in the FT8 setup? Or is park number not required for FT8 POTA?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

The FT8 payload size (13 characters) doesn't allow for the park number. The park number is not required for the exchange and with FT-8, people don't exchange it. If you are a hunter, you can match up the park number with the contact by looking at the pota.app spots page. For activators, when we upload our logs, we will include the park number with the log file and the POTA system will match up the contacts and park-2-parks automatically so everyone gets credit.

[@w9awx1]

Tried it with our G90. Took a little to get it set up with my laptop.

[@RFPews]

DigiRigs are great. They are a bit “hot”, at least when using them on FM. I have to really adjust my audio settings down so I can get good connections on Vara.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I would tend to agree. I was a bit surprised at how much lower I needed to adjust the levels of the Digirig vs my Signalink.

[@markspringer5514]

Greatvideo. Any advice on making it work on Winlink?

[@wushock92]

Thanks, Michael. You answered my questions about how to connect the digirig to my 891. 73 de WØRHP

[@carlossilva.k2wc.542]

Hello Michael, I like your videos, they are very educational, thank you for sharing your experiences with all of us. I have a question, where did you get the power pole adapter that appears on the back of your FT 891?.Thank you in Advance,73 de K2WC

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I did a video about a year ago on how I modded my FT-891 with a power pole plug. The parts can be easily 3D printed (or ordered from the designer) kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5W3lWynit9sopI

[@kd5you1]

I have a Digirig in my bug out bag, and I like how I can use it with my Yaesu FT-818 or my Icom IC-92AD HT. I have a Mobilinkd TNC3 that works with my HT as well, but it supports only packet. The Digirig will work with HF digital modes as well as VHF packet and VARA even with the HT. 73 KD5YOU

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I love the small size and it will certainly have a space in my portable bag.

[@billh2808]

Just got an 891 and a Digirig arrived yesterday. I know this video is 6 months old but thought I'd still post. This video was very helpful but I found out something that I thought I'd share. Personally I wasn't a fan of the idea of using the rf gain control to lower the USB volume into the pc for WSJT-X into the green area. IMO I'd rather leave that gain full and lower either the 891 USB output volume or the input level on the PC. I couldn't figure out if its possible to set the USB audio on the 891 so I looked at Windows to fix it. I have WSJT-X running on a Surface tablet and the ports show up but no USB audio input level control. That was until I had WSJT-X running with USB audio active and then looked at the audio mixer in WIN 11 and only then did the USB "microphone" input level show up. I was then able to get WSJT-X input level nicely into the green and keep my rf gain at max. A number more stations seemed to be showing up not sure if the max rf gain helped but it seemed to.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Thanks for the tip. I'm guessing that your method works because the audio chip on the Digirig has enough headroom to handle the high level of gain.

[@jolebole-yt]

Another excellent video on the FT8 / FT-891 and its capabilities. Thanks for all your hard work Michael! I finally got a QSO with you on your last POTA. 73 KD9HBU!

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Awesome. It's great to get you in the log.

[@K9TPT]

Great video Mike. What general logging software do you use while using FT8? Thanks

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I was running Hamrs in the background and hand entering the contacts into it.

[@K9TPT]

@@KB9VBRAntennas now I just need to figure out how to run FT8 on my IC-718

[@calarfe]

👍😁

[@ki4qfl]

Good Afternoon. Do have any videos on setting up the ICOM 718 and Signallink USB device for WSJT-X?

[@thormusique]

Great video, thanks! What antenna were you using here? Cheers!

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I am using a 213 inch collapsible whip as a 1/4 wave vertical antenna. Here's my complete vertical antenna setup: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nnKsmKtmarath9E

[@thormusique]

@@KB9VBRAntennas Ah, ok, thanks!

[@fredrodriguez6314]

Thank you Michael for all your great videos. I have a question regarding the ALC setting. I am unable to get the ALC meter to shift all the way to the far left on the FT-891 even after moving the power slider all the way to the bottom. It only drops about 25% of the way left. Have you run into this issue or have any suggestions? Thank You

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

You may want to check the output volume for the digirig on your computer. The slider should be set to about 75% or 3/4 to full. If it is at 100% you may not be able to adjust the ALC low enough.

[@Factory400]

KB9 Vader.......has joined the dark side. KB9V8R 😂

[@temmert8391]

Thanks!. Do you think I would be able to use an old S20 phone as the ft8 interface? This phone is on a carrier I no longer have service for. .W9TWE

[@wild-radio7373]

MWUAHAHAHAHA! we finally turned him to the dark side!❤❤❤

[@wild-radio7373]

I'm new-ish to digital modes and I ABSOLUTELY LOVE my digiRig♡

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I'm gonna start chanting 'one of us, one of us, one of us'

[@wild-radio7373]

@@KB9VBRAntennas 😆!♡

[@thuff3207]

What would make digital modes work better or portable operations? Software that runs on tablet or phone to use less power. That would lighten your load for pota and sota. To finish thank you for this video it was helpful.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I totally agree. I can run my laptop all day long if all I'm just using it for logging. But add WSJT and suddenly I'm down to 50% after 2 hours.

[@Nonroutine]

Love the video, easy and concise instruction. I seem to be having an issue however. First let me say I am very new to the FT-891 and pretty much of novice at FT8. I set up the FT-891 per your instructions. However, when I switch to DATA in the menu. The frequency changes from 14.074.00 to 14.070.70 on the 20m band. It does similar on other bands. Have I gotten something set incorrectly? Thanks in advance. WA4TAW

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

When you switch modes on the FT-891, the frequency will shift a bit. That is normal and it is due to the mode's bandwidth.

[@bjham13]

Thanks for another great video! Been thinking of getting into digital, but did not know which way to go in terms of equipment. Your video and a little extra research has help in my decision. My order for a Digirig is in for my IC-718. Keep up the great work with these videos, it really is a great help, especially for new comers to the hobby. Ben - VK3VAX

[@cioiart1]

First of all, thank you for the informative videos. Very helpful. I tried to replicate the setup without using the USB cable connected between the FT-891 and thge PC. Unfortunately it doesn't work for me. WSJT-X won't trigger the frequency changes and the PTT Test is never returning back. My Digirig is from November 2022. Any ideas what I could do wrong?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

If you are using the single cable and RTS signaling, WSJT-X will not sense the frequency changes. You will have to do that manually. that's because frequency change is a function of CAT control. As for the PTT test failing, I'd check the baud rate, parity, and stop bits for the transceiver and the computer. This is serial communications, so those will all have to match.

[@brichard9485]

The digirig sounds interesting, but I'm a bit confused poking around their website. Are the jumpers inside the actual unit different for different radios where if you use it on an FT-857D, IC7100, and Baefeng HT...not only do you need 3 sets of rig to digirig cables at $30+ a set, but completely different digirigs themselves. Requiring 3 separate $50 units, dedicated to each rig. They also neglect to mention how long the "short" cables are...only mention how long the "standard" ones are. Rather significant oversight.

[@danielzdanowicz6899]

Michael have you had any success with Fldigi keying CW on the FT-817 through the Digirig CAT control? If so… what are your Fldigi settings? I’ve had no luck keying CW this way. Best 73s Dan. K1YPB - On the air since 1962

[@daveruff47]

I am hoping to use this setup with Ham Radio Deluxe and also I hope it will get me running with Winlink?

[@ihatesmartphones]

I set everything that you said to set in the Data mode. But i barely get any activity on FT8 but when i switch to SSB Mode I get all of the activity and the FT8 sounds normal in the radio's speaker. How do I get the Data Mode to do that? in the 891. And what the radio transmits out doesn't sound like FT8 Either

[@mattxoverbey]

I have a digirig and plan to use it with my 891. Just in case I missed it, what’s the reason as to why you’re not using a usb cable along with the cable for the radio on the digirig?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I think I touched on the reason very briefly in the video, but I'm not using the USB CAT cable for two reasons: first, adding CAT requires a second cable from the computer to radio, tying up both USB ports and adding extra wire to the setup. The second is that while is nice, it adds a lot rig control that makes switching bands easier, it also tends to flake out on me when I use it in the field with the FT-891. I like the single wire concept from the computer to the transceiver.

[@K4dsx]

Another question(s) from a newbie, Adjusting the WDH, NR, Processor and AGC in DATA mode doesn't affect other modes like SSB and CW, correct? If you switch back to SSB or CW, do you have to set the DATA settings again or are they saved? Also I've seen some videos using the CAT control cable (CAT settings) and not using RTS? Is one better than the other?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

No it doesn't, and that's the beauty of using the Data mode for FT8. Those settings, with the exception of WDH, will not not reset or affect your SSB mode settings. As for your second question. The advantage of CAT control is that it can change the frequency within WSJT-X. CAT also performs the transmit switching. I prefer to use RTS for two reasons: I think the transmit switching is marginally faster and more reliable than CAT, and I only have one cable running from the computer to the transceiver instead of two.

[@cchalfantusa]

Michael, I’m still a rookie and thinking about getting one of these before the June ARRL digital contest. I tried to follow in your video but am still uncertain. How much work is it to “undo” all these setting changes to go back to SSB? I convinced myself that the ALC probably needs to be adjusted but many of the settings in the menu system are unique to HF digital and likely can stay as you configured without applying to SSB. Am I right or am I missing something? Newer FT-891 owner still trying to learn which settings are possibly saved along with a memory channel as another possibility to make it as effortless as possible.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

If you use the Data mode for FT8 and the SSB for phone, then the changes are minimal. The FT-891 has separate deep menu settings for those two modes so you can keep your base settings separate. Then when I change from Phone to Data, I will first turn down the RF gain, because the audio will be highly overmodulated and then widen the WDH to 3000 Hz. To adjust the ALC in WSJT, I use the power slider on the right side of the screen. Switching back to phone, All I really need to do is turn up the RF gain as the width will default back to 2400 hz in SSB mode. I know some people say not to use the Data mode for FT8 because the WDH always resets, but if you are often switching between phone and digital, it really is the easiest method.

[@cchalfantusa]

@@KB9VBRAntennas you always exceed my expectations with thoughtful replies that take your time and talent. Thank you Michael! Hope to get you on a park to park someday!

[@robertanderson7723]

So Michael, are you now using the Digirig in lieu of the Signal Link on the FT-891?

[@mikes6252]

Michael, I noticed your FT-891 has Powerpole connectors on the rear. Mine has the standard 4 pin connector. Did yours come like that or did you modify it?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I modified my FT-891 to use Powerpoles. Here's how I did it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5W3lWynit9sopI

[@K4dsx]

Good morning, on the video you have 08-02 (PSK) set at 1000 and you dont mention it, but in the description you have it listed as "1500". Safe to assume this doesnt matter which its set at? As Always thanks!

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

08-02 is PSK tone. I've seen recommendations to set it to either 1500 or 1000. But I'm not sure if it matters because in 08-01 we are setting the Data Mode to from PSK/OTHERS to OTHERS. Please correct me if I'm wrong, but I think the goal in the data mode settings is to give yourself the widest passband possible and I don't think adjusting 08-02 matters in that regard.

[@K4dsx]

@@KB9VBRAntennas thank you so much!!!!

[@jolebole-yt]

Hey Michael. I replicated this setup with the DigiRig and it works fairly well. However, when I change the band in WSJT-X, the band on the radio does not change. Is this an expected outcome because we use RTS as PTT mode and not CAT?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Yes, that's expected. Automatic band changes in WSJT-X require CAT control. With RTS signaling, you are only switching the PTT. You will have to make the band change manually.

[@KD9HBU]

@@KB9VBRAntennas Thanks very much!

[@Kody10538]

Can the 891 handle full 100 watt digital output as well as my 7100? Or would that be a bit hard on it? I have an 891 mobile in one vehicle and a 7100 in my other. I run 100w FT8 with no problems on the 7100.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I've run the Ft-891 at 100 watts digital for brief periods of time, but I haven't done anything extended. The most power I'd used on FT8 for an extended period is 50 watts. But the Ft-891 does have a dual fan system to help move the air through it. In the menu, set the fans to contest mode to activate them.

[@nerdinium]

Re: window screen ground plane - would more than one piece of screen do better?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Yes and no. On the higher bands you won't see an appreciable difference, but 40 meters and lower adding more screen will enhance performance.

[@davidbinkowski4825]

So, maybe someone can clarity - by omitting the CAT control cable (that goes from the computer straight to the radio - most places I look have instructions that show both cables - one for CAT control, seperate from the digi-rig connection) do you only give up the ability to set the tuning frequency from the computer when you switch bands? Here I noticed he was just set to one of the FT-8 frequenfcies but he didn't set it from the computer, so I'm assuming dropping that CAT control cable simply loses you that ability and you can manually tune into the frequency for the bands you're doing. Which is fine. Is that how its working in his case?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Correct. CAT gives you full radio control. That is communication between then radio and the computer to change frequency, mode, etc. Without CAT, you will have to set those manually in WSJT and on the transceiver. The biggest challenge I've had with digital modes, prior to switching to the Digirig, is that the CAT connection between the computer and the FT-891 would frequently drop. RTS switching is more stable, but it forces you to do a bit more work in setting the frequency and band.

[@CoveiraoPS3]

Can you use it with n1mm to send cw and cw skimmer or some other cw decoder? 73

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

You can add the full CAT control and it will do everything a digital interface could do.

[@luisjosevaldiviasoudy2400]

Estimado, las disculpas soy latino de chile, y me gustaria que me digera si este equipo sirve para yaesu ft891. Espero me responda gracias

[@TI2GBB]

Si sirve! Sigue los pasos del vídeo para saber cuál digirig debes comprar.73s de TI2GBB 🇨🇷

[@mikedelamer]

So I bought a digirig and followed your tutorial to set it up with my 891. On my laptop I’m not “hearing” anything I have nothing on my screen. Where did I go wrong? Help would be appreciated. Mike KI4MTM

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Most likely it's a audio issue inside your computer. First check that your audio isn't muted. (I once accidentally hit the mute button on my laptop as I was shutting down and it took me forever to figure out what the problem was the next day). Inside WSJT-X go to Settings, Audio and make sure the Digirig device is selected for both the input and output. (You'll have a choice between the computer's audio and the generic uPNP device, select the generic device). Third, under the Windows audio settings for the uPNP device, make sure the sliders are set for about a 75% level, and not all the way to zero. Hopefully this helps.

[@jyunte]

Why not change the Windows audio settings, for playback (receive) and record (transmit) instead of changing the RF Gain control and lowering the TX power down to nothing? This is what DigiRig says to do for their other radios. Is the FT-891 different?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I don't know if the FT-891 is different, but my feeling is that reducing the RF gain will give you a cleaner signal into the digirig. Reducing the mic gain for audio in only reduces the level of an overloaded signal. On the output side, the PWR slider really is the same thing as the volume control for audio out. Both accomplish the same purpose to control the ALC.

[@jyunte]

@@KB9VBRAntennas The DigiRig has an Attenuation pad (cut it/remove the solder) if the signal is too hot.

[@MrJimmy440]

Can you do CAT control with the DigiLink ? I just received mine today.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

On the FT-891? No. You need a separate USB cable for the CAT control.

[@MrJimmy440]

@@KB9VBRAntennas Roger that. I got a new one yesterday and will be setting it up today. Thank you

[@w4kxt]

I'm guessing that since you selected none on rig control then it can't control the frequency in wsjt-x?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

No you can't. If you use the CAT control cable, you can. But if you are just using RTS switching of the transmit, you will have to manually set the frequency.

[@w4kxt]

Dang. I’m hoping they can figure out a way to use the serial port to do cat control as well. I’d love to have just one cable connected to my laptop to have total control of the 891. Glad this worked better than the signal link for you.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

You and me both. Unfortunately Yaesu did not implement serial CAT through the DIN connector, nor did they install a sound card interface via USB. It's like the worst of both worlds and one of the very few things that I don't like about the FT-891.

[@Not_SatoruGojo]

What is the point of FT8 if it sends messages that consist only of callsigns. Why not text messages?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

The payload for an Ft8 transmission is 13 characters, you barely have room for a callsign, signal report, and grid square. But I think for the reason why, you need to step back a bit and look at why modes like FT8 were developed. FT8 is considered a weak signal mode, so its efficiency is derived from the computational power and error correction of the receiving station. Contacts from incredible distances under all sorts of propagation conditions can be made with FT8. It's a derivative of the slower JT65 mode which was designed for purposes like meteor scatter and moonbounce. FT8 was never designed to be conversational, but instead to push the limits of weak signal communication. By happenstance, FT8 really took of when the ARRL had their Grid Square Challenge a few years back. It was the right mode, at the right time, to quickly and efficiently trade grids for that event. Since then the mode continued to gain popularity. If you are looking for a more conversational digital mode, I suggest something along the lines of RTTY or PSK31.

[@travisaugustine7264]

You've been bit by the FT8 bug (it really is a gateway drug)...now to get you on PSK31

[@billhewitt8965]

Or js8 call

[@danielwinn5707]

Or rtty...

[@BentConrod]

VarAC for the win

[@dougtaylor7724]

You run through the settings like it’s child’s play. Looks like a couple of hours work for me. Lol

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

That sequence was highly edited to move things along. But with the magic of video you can always stop and replay.

[@rbrazil1000]

Has anyone got it to work with winlink?

[@traceyisom6681]

The digi rig in you link says VHF/UHF. It doesn’t give the logic option is this not the one? Even the cables are diff. Sold out I guess.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I checked the Amazon links and they came up correct for me. If you have any question of getting the correct device for the FT-891, you can order direct from digirig.net.

[@traceyisom6681]

@@KB9VBRAntennas as always thank you, KD9QMI!!!

[@garytedlock7533]

Do you have to change all the settings every time you do FT-8

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

No, if you use the FT-891's data mode for FT-8 the only setting you will have to change is the width (WDH). Width always resets back to the default value with a mode change.

[@garytedlock7533]

Thanks, Michael .I'm new to all this stuff. Thanks for all the work you do, especially for the new ham like me

[@douglasvamateurradioandmore]

Will these settings work with js8?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

Yes, the settings are good for just about any digital mode with the Ft-891

[@douglasvamateurradioandmore]

@KB9VBRAntennas thank you. I wad able to get on js8 call last night. A ham in idaho helped me figure out the program and clock settings. Even though the only responses I saw were to my heartbeat signals

[@MadGoat]

11:44 encompasses what ft8 is in a nutshell

[@This_Month_In_History]

I have yet to be successful with the Digirig , I've followed the video. It just keeps throwing an audio input error. When i assign the com3 audio input/output in the drop drown it Ptt's fine with a green cat bar next to it. but upon ok-exit it throws an audio sound input error plus the ALC bar never moves. I might have a bad digirig or cable, or a setting somewhere is off i just haven't caught yet.

[@AlGritzmacher]

Why does everyone think they need a rig interface with the 891? All you need is a sound card, which is probably built into your laptop. If you want a dedicated sound card, just get a USB sound card dongle.

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

You are correct, you can hack together cables and use the internal sound card in your computer. A rig interfaces offers two benefits: first is separate sound outputs so your system sounds don't go over the air. Second is audio and PTT isolation. An interface is more resistant to RF interference and ground loops than just straight cables.

[@AlGritzmacher]

@@KB9VBRAntennas You can hack some cables together, but they can be bought pre-made. Separate sound card inputs are a good thing and can be had with a $15 USB dongle. Ground loops? That's a stretch. It's a straight path - radio - USB - computer, no loop in the path and the USB dongle breaks up the audio path. The Digirig is a neat product. If you need it. You don't need it with the 891. But don't feel bad, a lot of people thought they needed a RigBlaster or Signalink and spent even more. edit: You need to buy cables for the Digirig as well. A cable for the 891 din plug jack to a sound card can be found online easily for about $15, no hacking or soldering needed. The Digirig is a nice product. My son uses one and I've seen it up close. If you feel you need audio DC isolation between the rig and sound device, it will provide that. If you want to work with multiple rigs, it may be the way to go. If you just can't deal with two USB cables instead of one, it will help. Many laptops have limited USB ports. Compared to prior products on the market, it's more affordable. So it's not a bad choice, but not absolutely necessary.

[@gregmalonewa3gm680]

I tried this today with the digi rig. I have the same settings as you do in the radio Michael sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t. Sometimes they transmit goes through two or three cycles, and then it will stick on transmit. Not sure what to do

[@jifchosehismother]

all these ads…really?

[@KB9VBRAntennas]

I try to balance ad placement for a better viewer experience, but please be aware that it's KZbin and not me that's shoving those ads down your throat.