Purpose and Approach

This project was born out of a real-world need among amateur radio operators: real-time visibility of radio propagation conditions based on actual, live signal reports. Instead of relying solely on theoretical models or delayed updates, this system provides an interactive, up-to-date map using real-time spot data from sources like PSK Reporter, RBN, WSPR, and DX Cluster.

Its goal is simple but powerful: Help operators instantly understand “where the band is open” and plan their contacts more effectively.

Roadmap

We’re continuously improving the platform to support ham radio operators worldwide. Here’s what’s coming soon:

Real-Time Alerts: Get notified when band openings occur for your preferred regions, bands, or modes.
AI-Based Prediction: Smarter propagation forecasts powered by real-time and historical data.
Mobile-Responsive Enhancements: An optimized interface for phones and tablets, perfect for use in the field.

Have ideas? We’d love to hear them! Contact us at support@dxpulse.app.

Contact Support

If you have any questions, feedback, or suggestions about DXPulse, we’d love to hear from you. You can contact us anytime by emailing support@dxpulse.app. We aim to respond promptly and are always open to input from the ham radio community.

Your feedback helps us improve the platform and develop new features based on real-world operator needs.

Support and Donate

DXPulse is a free tool built for the ham radio community. If you find value in the real-time DX propagation data it provides, consider making a donation to support ongoing development, data hosting, and infrastructure costs.

One-time donations are available in amounts of €5, €10, or €20. You can also choose to become a monthly subscriber with a recurring €7 donation to help us continue improving the platform.

Every contribution makes a difference. Thank you for helping keep this independent amateur radio project alive and thriving.

Feasible Modes Based on SNR

One of DXPulse’s unique features is Feasible Modes. Instead of merely displaying the mode that was transmitted (for example, FT8), DXPulse analyzes the reported SNR (signal‑to‑noise ratio) to estimate which additional modes are realistically decodable under current HF propagation conditions.

Typical SNR thresholds:

FT8: –24 dB to +5 dB
CW: –18 dB to +10 dB (depending on operator skill)
SSB: –10 dB to +20 dB (voice readability)

If a received FT8 spot shows an SNR of –12 dB, DXPulse marks CW as feasible. A +5 dB FT8 spot may even indicate SSB feasibility on the same band. This data‑driven approach helps operators choose the most effective mode before calling CQ.

Quick‑Start Guide: Using the Live DX Map

Select Band & Mode: Use the filter check‑boxes to choose 20 m FT8, 40 m CW, etc.
Watch Real‑Time Spots: The map auto‑refreshes every 60 seconds, showing new PSK Reporter, WSPR, RBN, and DX Cluster spots.
Zoom for Detail: Zoom in to see individual grid squares, spotter locations, and SNR values.
Interpret Feasible Modes: Hover a spot and check which additional modes the SNR supports.
Plan Your QSO: Switch your rig to the most promising band/mode and call CQ.

Need alerts? Real‑time band‑opening notifications are on the Roadmap!

DXPulse FAQ and Glossary

What is a DX Map?

A DX map is a visual representation of worldwide amateur‑radio contacts (“DX” stands for distance). DXPulse updates this map in real time.

Which data sources does DXPulse use?

We aggregate live spots from WSPRnet, the Reverse Beacon Network (RBN), and global DX Cluster nodes to ensure complete HF coverage.

Does DXPulse support FT4, JS8Call, or PSK?

FT4 support is planned. Additional digital modes such as JS8Call and PSK31 are being evaluated based on spot availability and community demand.

Glossary

SNR (Signal‑to‑Noise Ratio): A measure (in dB) of signal strength relative to background noise.
Grid Square: Maidenhead locator used to specify amateur‑radio station position (e.g., JN45).
WSPR: Weak‑Signal Propagation Reporter, an automated beacon mode ideal for tracking HF openings.
RBN: Reverse Beacon Network, a worldwide system of CW skimmers reporting real‑time spots.
DX Cluster: A network where operators post spots of stations they’ve heard.