If you are trying to contact a rare DXpedition, you will likely need to use Fox & Hound (F/H) mode. This specialized version of FT8 allows a single DX station (the Fox) to work multiple callers (the Hounds) simultaneously, significantly increasing their contact rate.
1. Core Concepts
Before you begin, understand how the “dance” works:
- The Fox (DXpedition): Transmits at the bottom of the band (usually between 0–500 Hz) and can send up to five signals at once.
- The Hound (You): You must transmit “up high” (usually above 1000 Hz) to stay out of the Fox’s way.
- The Jump: When the Fox answers you, WSJT-X will automatically move your transmitter frequency down to the Fox’s range to finish the contact, then move you back up when done.
2. Essential Hardware & Software Setup
F/H mode requires your station to be configured precisely, or the Fox will never hear you.
Step A: Enable “Split” Operation
This is the most common reason for failure. The Fox needs your signal to be clean.
- Go to File > Settings > Radio.
- Under Split Operation, select Rig (preferred) or Fake It.
- Click OK.
Step B: Synchronize Your Clock
FT8 relies on perfect timing. If your PC clock is off by even 1.0 second, the Fox cannot decode you.
- Use a synchronization tool like NetTime, Dimension 4, or the built-in Windows “Sync now” button in Time & Date settings.
3. Configuring WSJT-X for Hound Mode
Once your radio is ready, you must tell the software you are “hunting.”
- Open File > Settings > Advanced.
- Check the box for Special operating activity.
- Select the radio button for Hound.
- Click OK.
- Note: You will see “H” appear in the status bar of the main window.
4. How to Make the Contact
- Find the Frequency: DXpeditions usually operate on non-standard frequencies (e.g., 14.090 MHz instead of the usual 14.074 MHz). Check DX clusters or the DXpedition’s website.
- Set Your TX Frequency: Shift-Click on the waterfall to set your red TX marker above 1000 Hz. Pick an empty-looking spot.
- Monitor the Fox: Watch the left-hand RX window. When you see the Fox calling “CQ” or working others, double-click their callsign.
- Automatic Sequencing: WSJT-X will start calling.
- Phase 1: You send your signal above 1000 Hz.
- Phase 2: The Fox sends you a signal report (e.g., “K1ABC -12”).
- Phase 3: Your software automatically jumps your TX frequency below 1000 Hz and sends your report back.
- Phase 4: The Fox sends RR73. The QSO is now complete.
5. Troubleshooting Tips
- “The Fox isn’t answering me!” Make sure you aren’t transmitting below 1000 Hz while calling. The Fox’s software is programmed to ignore callers in the “low” area to prevent interference.
- “I don’t see the Fox’s RR73.” If the Fox doesn’t send RR73, your software will keep sending your report. If it happens several times, the Fox likely lost your signal due to fading (QSB).
- “Should I call CQ?” No. In Hound mode, you should never call CQ. Your only job is to respond to the Fox.
In Fox & Hound mode, the exchange is designed to be much faster and more automated than a standard FT8 contact. The goal is for the Fox to “clear” you in as few transmissions as possible.
The Exchange Sequence
Unlike a standard contact where you send a Grid Square (e.g., EN90), the Hound bypasses that and goes straight to calling the Fox.
- Hound Calls: [Fox Callsign] [Your Callsign] [Your Grid]
- Example: CY0S K1ABC FN42
- Fox Responds: [Your Callsign] [Fox Callsign] [Your Report]
- Example: K1ABC CY0S -12
- Hound Confirms: [Fox Callsign] [Your Callsign] R[Their Report]
- Example: CY0S K1ABC R-14
- The Jump: At this exact moment, your software will automatically move your transmitter from the “high” frequency (above 1000 Hz) down to the Fox’s specific frequency (below 500 Hz).
- Fox Finishes: [Your Callsign] RR73; [Next Station]
[Their Report] - Example: K1ABC RR73; W9XYZ <CY0S> -05
- The Fox often combines your “RR73” with the first report for the next person in the queue to save time.
Key Rules for the Exchange
- Don’t send 73: Once you receive that RR73 from the Fox, you are finished. Do not send a final “73” message back. WSJT-X is programmed to stop transmitting automatically to keep the frequency clear for the next person.
- The “Three Strikes” Rule: If you send your R[Report] but don’t see the Fox’s RR73, your software will retry. Most Foxes are set to “abort” after 3 or 4 failed attempts to keep the rate high. If you get dropped, wait a cycle and start calling again.
No Custom Messages: Do not try to send “TNX” or “73” in the free-text box. The Fox’s automated software is looking for specific data patterns and will likely ignore anything else.