There are a ton of different digital modes in ham radio that all perform in their own distinct way. To use these modes, it requires connecting your radio with your computer and installing the program for the digital mode you want to use. You will also need a soundcard to operate digital. Some radios have built in soundcards. If your radio doesn’t have one built in you will need an external one such as a Signalink or Digirig to go between the radio and computer (Digirig and Signalink both offer radio/brand specific products so make sure to purchase the right one for your rig). Below are some of the links to download the different programs for digital modes.
FT8
Arguably the most popular digital mode in ham radio today. It requires your computers time to be perfectly synced to work so you’ll need to download a time sync app to keep it as close to perfect as possible.
WSJT Home Page (sourceforge.io) WSJT is the program to run FT8 as well as FT4. Look under Installation Packages and select the appropriate download for your computer.
https://www.maniaradio.it/en/bkttimesync.html BktTimeSync is a good time sync program that can use gps or internet to alter your computer’s time. Without correct time you won’t be able to complete a QSO in FT8. Click the blue button that says Download BktTimeSync.
JS8CALL
files.js8call.com/latest.html A chat based digital mode that allows people to message each other easily over RF. Its very similar to FT8 except it is a conversational mode allowing people to chat. Can also be used to talk in groups. It also requires your computers time be synced to work correctly so make sure to download BktTimeSync to go along with it.
Digital modes that use VARA
Vara is a soundcard modem protocol that a couple of the digital modes use. VARAC and Winlink are two of the modes that use it. There is Vara HF for HF radios and Vara FM for the VHF UHF rigs. They do offer a free version, but it restricts how fast you can run so it is recommended to go ahead and buy the paid version for 69 dollars. To purchase the full version open VARA, Help, Buy a VARA license.
downloads.winlink.org – /VARA Products/ Click on the VARA version you need (HF or FM)
Download VarAC | VarAC hamradio digital chat (varac-hamradio.com) A fast keyboard to keyboard mode
Winlink Express | Winlink Global Radio Email Send Emails through RF rather than the internet by use of gateways. Also has Peer to Peer connections so simplex communications are still an option with this service. Send photos, messages, files, request NWS data, and even the news.
FLDigi
fldigi download | SourceForge.net This program offers a lot of the legacy modes all in one. PSK, RTTY, and much more.