This page features extracts from the official WSPR website: https://www.wsprnet.org

WSPR = (pronounced “whisper”) stands for “Weak Signal Propagation Reporter.”   WSPR is computer generated low power Interactive Beacon mode which is surprisingly easy to set up and extremely addictive!

WSPR Sends and receives low-power data transmissions consisting of Callsign + 4 digit locator + dBm transmit power, a total of 50 Bits.  The program can decode signals with S/N as low as −34 dB in a 2500 Hz bandwidth.   Frequencies used are from LF, MF, HF, VHF, UHF.

The software can provide data to a website where your results and the results of others are displayed in real time and over time .

What can I do with it?

• Live propagation data between you and other WSPR stations
• Watch the behaviour of prorogation over time, the seasons and the sunspot cycle.
• See the bands open!
• Check out the practical performance of your antennas.
• Have fun seeing what countries and prefixes WSPR can work on low power.
• Can participate as a “receive only” station.

What do I need?

• SSB receiver or transceiver and antenna
• Computer running the Windows, Linux, FreeBSD, or OS X operating system.
• 1.5 GHz or faster CPU and at least 100 MB of available RAM
• Monitor with at least 800 x 600 resolution
• Sound card supported by your operating system and capable of 48 kHz sample rate.
• WSPR software
• If you will transmit as well as receive, an interface using a serial port to key your PTT line or a serial cable for CAT control. Alternatively, you can use VOX control.
• Audio connection(s) between receiver/transceiver and sound card
• A means for synchronizing your computer clock to UTC (e.g. Dimension 4)
• WSPR Software

Andrew VK3FS has produced an excellent video describing WSPR technology

Other useful information about WSPR

WSPR Net – lots of info along with interactive maps and charts: https://wsprnet.org/

Alternative WSPR interactive maps and charts only: wspr.vk7jj.com