Reliable Low-SNR Digital Communications for Amateur Radio and Grid-Down Operations
JS8Call-Improved provides robust, keyboard-friendly digital communications over HF radio using the weak-signal JS8 protocol. Designed for emergency communication, grid-down scenarios, off-grid expeditions, and everyday amateur radio messaging, JS8Call-Improved keeps operators connected even when band conditions are poor or power levels are minimal.
Our enhanced software—maintained by the same contributors behind JS8Call 2.2.0 and now actively developed—delivers dependable HF communications with global reach. JS8Call-Improved is used daily by operators involved in EMCOMM, preparedness networks, off-grid communication groups, and recreational HF digital operators who value reliability and resilience.
Built on the proven WSJT-X / FT8 engine and extended for real-time messaging and network-style features, JS8Call-Improved remains fully interoperable with all JS8 stations worldwide.
A Smarter Way to Communicate Over HF
JS8Call-Improved is a digital communication suite that brings:
- Ultra-weak-signal messaging capable of decoding down to –24 dB SNR
- Station-to-station chat in real time
- Directed and relayed messages, including store-and-forward
- Heartbeat and grid monitoring to discover active stations
- Automatic acknowledgments and delivery confirmations
- Groups messaging, ideal for preparedness and regional nets
- Beaconing, APRS-iGate integration, and message forwarding
JS8Call-Improved automatically discovers who can hear you, who they can hear, and how to route messages across HF paths. The protocol excels at digging signals out of the noise—often succeeding where voice and many other digital modes fail.
Focused on People, Not Just the Signal
JS8Call-Improved is built to help operators communicate, not fight with settings. The interface emphasizes clarity and usability:
- Easy to use
- Clean, modernized layout
- Customizable message templates
- Callsign directory with lookup tools
- Configurable heartbeat intervals and auto-responses
- Enhanced logging and message history
- Tools for off-grid and emergency operations
The software gets out of your way so you can focus on connecting with people across hundreds or thousands of miles—without depending on repeaters, the internet, or external infrastructure.
Intelligent Networking Over HF
JS8Call-Improved uses field-proven digital techniques to establish resilient communication networks across the ionosphere. Features include:
- Opportunistic message relaying
- Automatic station discovery
- Low-bandwidth, high-reliability messaging
- Global APRS-IS gateway support
- The ability to pass traffic even through shifting band conditions
- Robust performance on low power, compromised antennas, and noisy environments
With JS8Call-Improved, the network forms itself—stations hear each other, exchange heartbeats, and map the HF environment automatically.
Cross-Platform & Radio-Friendly
JS8Call-Improved runs on:
- Windows 10/11
- Linux (Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, Arch, Mint and more — for x86_64 and ARM64.)
- macOS (Intel & Apple Silicon)
The software works with any HF radio capable of USB digital audio including Icom, Yaesu, Kenwood, Elecraft, Xiegu, and many others.
Ongoing development ensures expanding compatibility, improved CAT control, and better integration with popular hardware.
Why Choose JS8Call-Improved?
- Built by active contributors from the original JS8Call 2.2.0 project
- Hundreds of bug fixes and stability improvements
- New features requested by the community
- Fully open, transparent development
- 100% backward-compatible with all JS8 stations
- Designed for preparedness, field operations, and real-world reliability
Whether you're supporting emergency networks, preparing for infrastructure loss, or simply enjoying long-distance digital communication, JS8Call-Improved keeps you connected.