Var-Ac HF Digital

A good start to any long path communication is to have a look at the latest solar data, so here it is, read on…

About VarAC

VarAC is a free and open-source software application designed for use by radio amateurs. The software provides a range of features for radio operators, including the ability to control transceivers and manage contacts, as well as a variety of digital signal processing (DSP) tools for decoding and analysing signals.

One of the key features of VarC is its support for a wide range of transceivers. The software is compatible with many popular models, including those from major manufacturers such as Yaesu, Kenwood, and Icom. This means that radio operators can use VarC with their existing equipment, without the need to purchase additional hardware.

Another important feature of VarC is its support for digital modes. The software includes a range of DSP tools for decoding digital signals, including popular modes such as PSK31, RTTY, and JT65. This makes VarC a valuable tool for radio operators who are interested in digital communication, as it allows them to decode signals and communicate with other operators using these modes.

VarC also includes a range of tools for managing contacts and logging QSOs. The software can automatically log contacts and store them in a database, making it easy to keep track of previous contacts and manage your logbook. The software also includes features for searching and filtering contacts, making it easy to find specific contacts or groups of contacts.

One of the unique features of VarC is its support for digital signal processing (DSP) tools. The software includes a range of DSP filters and tools for analyzing and processing signals, which can be used to improve the quality of received signals or extract specific information from signals. These tools can be particularly useful for operators who are working with weak or noisy signals, as they can help to improve signal quality and reduce interference.

Overall, VarC is a powerful and versatile software application for radio amateurs. With its support for a wide range of transceivers, digital modes, and DSP tools, VarC is a valuable tool for any radio operator who wants to improve their communication capabilities and make the most of their equipment. Best of all, VarC is free and open-source, which means that anyone can use and modify the software to meet their specific needs.

You Need A Modem…

VarAC uses a software modem called Vara.
Both have to be installed on your PC.

VARA (Virtual Audio Radio) modem is a proprietary software application designed for use by radio amateurs. The software provides a range of features for radio operators, including the ability to send and receive data over radio frequencies using soundcard-based digital modes.

One of the key features of VARA modem is its support for high-speed data transmission. The software is capable of transmitting data at rates of up to 7,200 bits per second, which is significantly faster than many other digital modes used by radio amateurs. This makes VARA modem a valuable tool for operators who want to transmit large amounts of data quickly and efficiently.

Another important feature of VARA modem is its reliability. The software includes advanced error-correction techniques, which can help to ensure that data is transmitted accurately and reliably even in the presence of noise and interference. This means that radio operators can trust VARA modem to transmit their data effectively, even in challenging conditions.
VARA modem also includes a range of tools for managing connections and optimising performance.

The software includes a built-in connection manager, which can be used to establish and maintain connections with other operators using VARA modem. The software also includes features for adjusting audio levels and optimizing signal strength, which can help to improve the quality of transmitted data.

One of the unique features of VARA modem is its support for automatic message forwarding. The software can automatically forward messages to other stations, based on a set of predefined rules. This feature can be particularly useful for emergency communications, as it allows operators to quickly and efficiently relay messages to other stations without the need for manual intervention.

Overall, VARA modem is a powerful and reliable software application for radio amateurs. With its support for high-speed data transmission, advanced error-correction techniques, and automatic message forwarding, VARA modem is a valuable tool for any operator who wants to transmit data quickly and reliably over radio frequencies. Whether you're communicating with other operators for fun or participating in emergency communications, VARA modem is a versatile and powerful tool that can help you get the job done effectively.

Many radios supported including by Omni-Rig and Flrig. I use the latter.
Please note, as with any digital communication on your radio, it is wise to run the power level at 50% or below. The PA would benefit from not being driven at the full duty cycle and save your PA.
If you have a linear amp however, you can run that at 50% to get that extra mile or two :)
As a tip, you can run two instances of Vara and configure one as transmit and one as a receive decoder.
Why not have a look on the web, Google Vara and VarAC for complete details. I suggest you read the instructions (RTFM) and the etiquette guide.

HF (VHF) Digital Coms Vara & VarAc