Amateur radio developers are continuing work on a digital voice system that could offer improved speech quality and efficient use of HF spectrum.
FreeDV’s Radio Autoencoder, known as RADE, combines machine learning with digital signal processing to transmit voice over traditional HF radio equipment.
Unlike proprietary digital voice systems, FreeDV is developed as open-source software. Operators and developers can examine the technology, experiment with it, and contribute improvements.
The development team has been testing RADE Version 2 using actual SSB transceivers and over-the-air communications.
Recent testing has focused on voice performance, integration with radio equipment, and improvements to the software used by operators.
Developers have also reported software optimization work aimed at reducing processor requirements.
The technology does not require operators to replace their existing SSB radios. Compatible equipment can use a computer and appropriate audio connections to operate FreeDV.
Although RADE V2 remains experimental, its continued development represents a significant amateur radio effort to advance HF digital voice communications.
Sources: FreeDV Project | Developer’s September Testing Report