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Shareware dual channel audio spectrum analyzer for Windows 2000/XP which can provide either a scrolling time-frequency display or a spectrum analyzer scope display in real time for any sound source connected to your sound card. Can be used for MTHELL, QRSS and DFCW by R S Horne

Audio Spectrum Analyser Spectrum Lab or Speclab started as a simple FFT program running under DOS a long time ago, but it is now a specialized audio analyzer, filter, frequency converter, hum filter, data logger and more. Can be used for MTHELL QRSS, DFCW, PSK, MSK, Castle. Spectrum Lab is a free audio analysis tool, lets you see the hidden world of sound. It analyzes live audio or recordings, showing you the exact frequencies present. Watch sounds change over time with a waterfall display. Need to clean up your audio? It can filter out noise in real-time. Even play with radio signals by decoding and creating special modes! While ideal for amateur radio enthusiasts, anyone can explore the science of sound for free.

A full size half-wave 30m dipole installed in an attic

Program designed to do spectral analysis and real-time audio filtering on reception of audio signals for EME, VLF, SETI applications. Offer support for MTHELL, QRSS, DFCW, NDB, WSJT by I2PHD

Argo, developed by I2PHD and IK2CZL, functions as a specialized freeware viewer for various weak signal modes, specifically MTHELL, Slow CW, QRSS, and DFCW. It processes audio input to visualize and decode these extremely low-speed transmissions, which are often imperceptible to the human ear. The software's capabilities extend to EME (Earth-Moon-Earth) operations, where its sensitivity to weak signals is particularly advantageous for detecting faint lunar reflections. The application provides a visual representation of the received signals, allowing operators to discern patterns and decode information from signals buried deep within the noise floor. Its design focuses on extracting data from signals with very narrow bandwidths and long integration times, characteristic of QRSS and similar modes. This tool is distinctively useful for experimenters and DXers engaged in challenging weak signal communication, offering a dedicated platform for modes not typically supported by general-purpose digital mode software. Its specialized focus on _Slow CW_ and _MTHELL_ makes it a niche but effective utility for specific operating scenarios.

This resource details the construction of a versatile CW/QRSS beacon, designed around a Microchip _PIC16F84_ microcontroller. The project provides a flexible platform for transmitting either standard CW or very slow QRSS signals, making it suitable for LF, VHF, UHF, and SHF applications. It supports two distinct messages, each configurable for speed (from 0 to **127** WPM for CW, or up to **127** seconds per dot for QRSS) and repetition within a six-phase sequence. The core functionality relies on the PIC's EEPROM, which stores all operational parameters, including message content, transmission speeds, phase configurations, and relay control settings. This design allows for parameter modification directly via programming software like _ICProg_ without altering the main program code. The project includes a detailed schematic, a component list, and an explanation of the EEPROM memory mapping for messages, speeds, phase settings, and inter-phase delays. General-purpose outputs (OUT1, OUT2, OUT3) provide dry relay contacts for external control, enabling functions such as power switching, antenna selection, or frequency changes. A 'TRIGGER' input facilitates controlled starts or continuous free-run operation. Sample EEPROM configurations illustrate how to program specific beacon sequences, including message content and relay states.

A home made QRSS beacon project for the 10 MHz by VK2ZAY

This simple 30m QRSS beacon is built entirely out of junkbox parts, the only component purchased specifically for this project was the 10,140kHz crystal. Hans Summers' 30m QRSS beacon project emphasizes simplicity and low cost, built almost entirely from reused parts. Key components include a 10,140kHz crystal, a 2N3904 transistor from a broken DVD player, and an ordinary LED used for frequency shift. The oscillator is stabilized in a polystyrene box, with power amplification driven by recycled copper PCB. Output power peaks at 360mW, and a custom 50-ohm dummy load manages heat. Though aesthetically unconventional, the beacon works effectively, fulfilling the project's low cost aim.

glfer is a program for reception and transmission of QRSS/DFCW signals. It is composed of two main parts: the spectrogram window, where you can see the spectrum of the received signal vs. time the transmission functions, to emit cw characters at a slow but precisely controlled speed, using the QRSS (slow CW) or DFCW (Dual Frequency CW) modes

This Windows MTHELL QRSS NDB and DFCW program extends possibilities of well-known Spectrogram with some new useful features. It enables to define the scrolling area to any size, it can save screen shots in defined time periods , it enables to browse the saved pictures easily by OK1FIG

This simple 30m QRSS beacon is built entirely out of junkbox parts, the only component purchased specifically for this project was the 10,140kHz crystal.

G0UPL QRSS receiver inspired by I1DFS receiver

Observing extremely slow CW (QRSS) signals requires specialized reception and display techniques, often involving long-term signal integration to make faint traces visible. This resource compiles numerous screenshots from active QRSS grabbers globally, providing a visual record of signal propagation and operational activity on specific amateur bands. Each entry typically includes the callsign of the grabber station, its grid square, and often the band being monitored, such as 40 meters or 30 meters. The compendium presents a diverse array of grabber outputs, with examples from North America, Asia-Pacific, and Europe. Notable stations featured include _W5GB_ at New Mexico State University, _VE1VDM_ in Canada, and _I2NDT_ (the author's own grabber). The collection illustrates the unique visual signatures of QRSS transmissions, where signals appear as faint lines or patterns against a noise floor, often over extended periods. The utility of such a collection lies in its ability to demonstrate real-world QRSS signal characteristics and the geographical distribution of active grabber sites. It serves as a historical snapshot of QRSS activity, allowing operators to compare signal traces and observe propagation phenomena across different continents.

ON7YD narrowbands modes on 136 Khz

30 meters beacon from UK. QRSS is a method of sending very slow morse code.

Operational mode QRPp QRSS Running as an MEPT Manned Experimental Propagation Transmitter

Article on a QRSS receiver for 30 meters band

10MHz WSPR and QRSS Transmitter Project

137.7 kHz QRSS beacon exciter is described, utilizing a single chip for operation on the 2200m amateur band. The design focuses on simplicity and efficiency for weak signal applications, providing a compact solution for generating QRSS signals. This project targets the DX portion of the band, enabling long-distance communication with minimal power output. The resource details the construction and functionality of the **QRSS beacon**, emphasizing its **low-power operation** and suitability for experimental amateur radio. It provides insights into the circuit's architecture and potential for integration into existing station setups. The design aims to offer a practical and accessible entry point for amateurs interested in weak signal modes on the LF/MF bands.

A borderline insane 30m QRSS beacon project, completely independent of computer control and containing NO microprocessors!

IK2PII describe here a simple direct conversion receiver, thinked for QRSS and DFCW communications, as companion of ARGO or SPECTRAN programs.

pictures and description of QRSS activity

QRSS pictures and examples from IW0HK ex IW1CXZ

Receiving QRSS CW on your PC by G0MRF

The 2200-meter band (135.7-137.8 kHz) presents unique challenges for amateur radio operators due to its narrow 2.1 kHz bandwidth, low signal levels, and high noise. W1TAG explores various transmission modes suited for this demanding environment, highlighting that traditional voice modes like SSB and AM are impractical. Plain old CW serves as the baseline, demonstrating effectiveness across different modes, though signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) significantly limits practical speeds. The article notes that reducing CW speed below 5 WPM can improve copy, especially with computer-aided spectrum analysis software capable of decoding signals too weak for human ear reception. QRSS, or "CW sent slowly enough that speeds are best expressed in seconds per dot," is a key mode for LF work, with examples ranging from 3 seconds/dot to extreme 240 seconds/dot transmissions. _Argo_ by I2PHD is mentioned as a simple program for QRSS, enabling reception of signals like BRO, a Part 15 beacon, at a distance of **1100 miles**. Other modes discussed include Dual Frequency CW (DFCW), which uses frequency shifts to distinguish dots and dashes, and Binary Phase Shift Keying (BPSK), a phase modulation technique employing 0 to 180-degree phase flips. WOLF (Weak-signal Operation on Low Frequency), a specialized BPSK form by KK7KA, encodes 15-character messages into 960-bit packages, taking 96 seconds to transmit, and has demonstrated successful reception over **672 seconds** for a message from a 1-watt beacon. Further modes include PSK, FSK variations like JASON and MSK, and graphical modes such as Hellschreiber and Chirped Hell. The article concludes with a practical chart comparing the time required to send a simple message like "WD2XES FN42CH " across these diverse LF modes, offering valuable insights for operators planning contacts on the low bands.

Describes IK1ZYW 10m beacon running QRSS

A QRSS beacon on 30 meter band project wind and solar powered based on a loop antenna.

A schematic diagram of a homemade direct conversion receiver for 30 meters band

A blog dedicated to QRSS

QRSS operations on 30M with an home made dipole

Designs for QRSS TX and other Arduino based systems

Monitoring extremely weak signals in the QRSS (Very Slow Morse) mode requires specialized receiving and processing capabilities to extract information below the typical noise floor. This project provides a software solution, _QrssPiG_, designed to run on a Raspberry Pi, enabling it to function as a dedicated QRSS grabber. It interfaces with various Software Defined Radio (SDR) devices, including the popular _rtl-sdr_ dongles and _HackRF_ units, to acquire raw I/Q data streams. The software then performs the necessary signal processing to visualize and decode these faint, long-duration CW transmissions, often operating with milliwatts of power. The system leverages the computational power of the Raspberry Pi for real-time signal analysis, allowing hams to participate in QRSS experiments and monitor distant beacons. It supports different SDR hardware, offering flexibility in setup and deployment for home stations or remote monitoring sites. The project includes detailed instructions for installation and configuration, making it accessible for those familiar with Linux environments. This grabber is particularly useful for tracking propagation on the LF and HF bands where QRSS activity is common, providing a visual representation of signal presence over extended periods.

The N0QBH QRSS project page, a couple of projects using available kits for improved frequency and timing stability. A configurable DDS VFO 100mW transmitter with LCD display and a modified Hans Sommers 40m 100mW transmitter

A portal of QRSS images, automatically Updated with Active QRSS Grabberers

DF0WD/DL4YHF's Longwave Overview details amateur radio operations on the 135.7 to 137.8 kHz segment in Germany. The author outlines the "inofficial" European band plan, specifying segments for QRSS, TX tests, beacons, conventional CW, and data modes. Early LF activities at DF0WD began with a 20-watt CW transmitter, later upgraded to a homemade linear transverter capable of 100 watts, driven by an Icom IC706 on 10.137 MHz. The station's antenna system includes a 200-meter wire, approximately 10 meters above ground, supported by football field light-masts. Despite its length, the antenna's efficiency is noted as very low due to the immense wavelength of about 2.2 km. The author's experience highlights the significant challenge of achieving effective radiated power (EIRP) on LF, estimating DF0WD's EIRP at around 80 milliwatts based on field strength measurements from PA0SE. DF0WD/DL4YHF has successfully worked numerous countries on 136 kHz CW, including DL, F, G, GI, GM, GU, GW, HB9, HB0, LX, OE, OH, OK, OM, ON, OZ, PA, and SM. The author also mentions ongoing efforts to log contacts with CT, EI, LA/LG, and to complete a two-way QSO with Italy, demonstrating persistent activity on this challenging band.

An unique method to listen to QRSS signals is... using an old tape recorder with variable speed

Ham radio activity and homebrew from Italy with some interesting article on QRSS, decoding interfaces, APRS and antennas

This page discusses the use of the new Version 4 RTL-SDR dongle for simple QRSS reception. The author shares their experience with connecting the dongle to a PA0RDT miniwhip antenna and using RTLSDRlop QRSS software. They encountered issues with Linux but found a solution with a new driver. The page also provides information on coupling multiple dongles to one antenna and adding selectivity with a divider-filter box. Hams interested in experimenting with RTL-SDR technology, antenna setups, and software for QRSS reception will find this content useful.