Configure transmit safely

Transmit features can key connected station equipment. Confirm your radio, antenna, frequency, mode, and local authorization before every transmission.

Configure audio

Open Settings > Audio. Select the microphone and the output that feeds the transceiver.

Use the input meter and test controls before PTT. Set TX output gain at or below a clean level.

The voice path can apply microphone gain, noise reduction, speech EQ, compression, and filtering. Avoid sustained limiter activity.

Configure PTT

Connect CAT if Radio Bench must key the transceiver. Without CAT, the radio can use an external VOX arrangement for audio modes.

The default keyboard PTT control is Space. You can change it in Settings > Application.

Check the operating state

Confirm that the rig mode matches the selected Radio Bench mode. Confirm that the TX output goes to the radio, not to loudspeakers.

Start with low power into a dummy load when you validate a new setup. Monitor the transmitted signal with suitable independent equipment.

Experimental modes

Radio Bench labels experimental transmit paths in the interface. Treat them as test features and verify their behavior before on-air use.

FT8/FT4 transmissions

The FSK workspace generates timed transmit audio. It does not use the microphone to construct FT8/FT4 messages. Configure the output connected to the radio and verify the data input and CAT/PTT path.

Use the FSK contact controls to start a scheduled exchange and Halt to stop it. Do not treat ordinary voice PTT as the FSK start control.

Remain present and supervise every exchange. Robotic or unattended FT8/FT4 QSOs are not permitted in Radio Bench.