CQWW Digital Contest 2026

I have worked many stations on the Digital modes, but not done much in the Digital Contesting arena. I am going to attempt to setup to work the CQWW Digital Contest using N1MM+ and WSJT-X software. I will try to set this up and will post the details of what I do and how it works or doesn’t!

I am NOT using VHF antennas. I have a ZS6BKW and an 80 meter dipole. So, I will give this a try and you will see how it works. I have many 6 meter QSOs on a ZS6BKW antenna, so I am hoping that the conditions will support some 6 meter contacts for the contest.

SUMMRY – It is very easy to setup for this Contest

Below are my ramblings about trying to get N1MM+ and WSJT-X setup for this contest. My main problem was that I was unable to find a good short and concise set of instructions. Once you have N1MM+ and WSJT-X each working separately, it is simple. Close them both, open N1MM+ and then type FT8 (that is the mode I am using) into the N1MM+ Log Window in the Callsign box. Hit ENTER and assuming you have told N1MM+ where WSJT- software can be found; it should pop up all of the necessary WSJT-X windows.

First Attempt – This Should be Easy

I already use N1MM+ frequently and I use WSJT-X software for all of my Digital Work, so getting the two to work together should be simple, right? I found some instructions online that tell me how to integrate the two programs for a contest. Here are the instructions that I found:

Setting Up WSJT-X with N1MM for Contests

To effectively use WSJT-X with N1MM for contesting, follow these essential steps to ensure proper configuration and communication between the two programs.

Initial Requirements

  • Install Latest Versions: Ensure you have the latest versions of both N1MM+ and WSJT-X installed on your computer.
  • Basic Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with the basic operations of both N1MM+ and WSJT-X independently before attempting to link them.

Configuration Steps

  1. Start N1MM+:
    • From the File menu, select “New Log in Database.”
    • Choose the appropriate log type for the contest (e.g., WWDIGI).
  2. Configure Ports and Mode Control:
    • Go to the Config menu and select “Configure Ports, Mode Control, Audio, Other…”
    • In the WSJT/JTDX Setup tab, enable “Radio #1 Settings” with the IP address set to 127.0.0.1 and UDP port 2237.
  3. Set Up WSJT Decode List:
    • Ensure the WSJT Decode List is configured within N1MM+. This allows for a bi-directional interface between the two programs, facilitating logging and QSO initiation.

Important Considerations

  • Separate Instances: When interfacing, a new instance of WSJT-X, referred to as “WSJT-X – ForEW1,” is created. This instance should be configured separately from your everyday WSJT-X setup. – Sounds good but I do not see that (later – I now see that when you invoke WSJT-X from inside of N1MM+, this does happen)
  • Rig Control: All rig control functions are managed by N1MM+, which simplifies the process of switching between WSJT and traditional modes.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • If you encounter issues with audio transmission or rig control, ensure that both programs are not trying to access the same audio or CAT (Computer Aided Transceiver) settings simultaneously.
  • Consider using separate computers for N1MM+ and WSJT-X if conflicts arise. – Yeah! Not ever doing this!!

By following these steps, you can successfully set up and operate WSJT-X with N1MM for contesting, enhancing your digital mode contesting experience.

I followed all of the instructions which mainly tell me how to configure N1MM+ to use WSJT-X, but I see nothing about how to configure WSJT-X to work with N1MM+. more work is required; I guess. Seems like there should be a way to tell WSJT-X about the Port that is being used to talk to N1MM+

I will do some more investigating and will Post what I find.

Finally Got It Working

This should probably have been obvious….. I had to open N1MM+. then enter FT8 in the Call Window and Press ENTER. It now brought up a new WSJT-X session that was coordinated with N1MM+ (and I see that the name is “WSJT-X – ForEW1“). Then I went into the SETTINGS Menu for WSJT-X and selected the ADVANCED TAB. I then CLICKed on “Special Operating Activity” and selected my Contest. It now all seems to be working. But this should have been easy???? Like many things, it is easy once you have done it…

Hope you got it all working and I hope to work you in the contest this weekend.

73,

Tom

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