Xiegu G90 Digital Modes Setup

Introduction

This tutorial provides step-by-step instructions to configure the Xiegu G90 for ham radio digital modes. We will cover setting up the radio itself, configuring CAT control, adjusting audio levels, and setting up popular software applications like WSJT-X, JS8Call, and FLDigi. By following these steps, you will be ready to communicate using digital modes effectively.

Step 1: Configure the Xiegu G90 Settings

1. Power On the Radio

   • Ensure your Xiegu G90 is powered on and connected to your antenna.

2. Access the Menu

   • Press the MENU button to enter the settings.

3. Set Digital Mode

   • Navigate to the MODE setting and select the digital mode you wish to use (e.g., FT8, JS8).

4. Adjust the RF Gain

   • Find the RF GAIN setting and adjust it to prevent distortion while receiving signals.

5. Set the Audio Level

   • Ensure the audio level is set appropriately for digital communications. This can typically be found in the SOUND or AUDIO settings.

Step 2: Set Up CAT Control

1. Connect the Radio to Your Computer

   • Use a USB cable to connect your Xiegu G90 to your computer.

2. Install Drivers

   • Ensure that appropriate drivers for the Xiegu G90 are installed on your computer for CAT control to work properly.

3. Configure CAT Settings

   • Open your chosen digital mode software (e.g., WSJT-X).
   • Set the CAT control settings to match the COM port assigned to the radio.

4. Check Baud Rate

   • Ensure the baud rate is set to 9600 in both the software and the Xiegu G90 settings.

Step 3: Set Up WSJT-X

1. Download and Install WSJT-X

   • Go to the official WSJT-X website and download the latest version. Follow the installation instructions.

2. Configure WSJT-X Settings

   • Open WSJT-X and go to File > Settings.
   • Under the Radio tab, select the correct COM port for your radio and set the baud rate to 9600.

3. Adjust Audio Settings

   • Go to the Audio tab and set the input and output devices to the appropriate audio interfaces (e.g., USB audio for the radio).

4. Set Frequencies

   • Choose the frequency for the digital mode you're using (e.g., 14.074 MHz for FT8).

Step 4: Set Up JS8Call

1. Download and Install JS8Call

   • Visit the JS8Call website to download and install the application.

2. Configure JS8Call Settings

   • Open the application and navigate to the Settings menu.
   • Set the COM port and baud rate similar to WSJT-X.

3. Adjust Audio Input and Output

   • Ensure that the audio settings match those set in WSJT-X for seamless operation.

4. Select Band and Mode

   • Choose your desired frequency and mode within JS8Call.

Step 5: Set Up FLDigi

1. Download and Install FLDigi

   • Access the FLDigi website for the latest version and complete the installation.

2. Setup FLDigi Configuration

   • Launch FLDigi and go to Configure > Rig.
   • Select the correct rig (Xiegu G90) and configure the COM port and baud rate.

3. Configure Audio Settings

   • Under Configure > Audio, set your input and output devices to match those configured in other software.

4. Choose Mode and Frequency

   • Select the appropriate digital mode and frequency for communication.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can successfully configure your Xiegu G90 for digital modes across various software applications. Ensure to double-check your settings for CAT control and audio adjustments to avoid common pitfalls. With your setup complete, you can start exploring the world of ham radio digital communications. Happy operating!