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@github-actions github-actions released this 05 Oct 12:33
· 18 commits to main since this release
v1.1.0
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Release Notes: OscarWatch Tracker v1.1.0

This is a major milestone release for OscarWatch Tracker! The headliner for v1.1.0 is full, native FT4 support, built right into the application using our own custom C++ decoder and encoder engine.

Alongside native FT4, this update includes significant performance improvements, enhanced rig control, smarter handling of satellite orbital data, and numerous bug fixes across the app.

💡 Important: Sign Up & Get Connected

To get the most out of OscarWatch Tracker, please make sure you take a few moments to set up your account integration:

  • Create your OscarWatch.org Account: Head over to OscarWatch.org, sign up for a free account, and copy your API token from your profile.
  • Add your Token: Open OscarWatch Tracker, go to Settings -> OscarWatch, and paste in your token.
  • Enable FT4 Spotting: Go to FT4 Settings -> Reporting and turn on Report FT4 traffic to OscarWatch.org. Sharing your decodes helps build a real-time picture of satellite transponder activity for the whole amateur radio community!

🛠️ What’s New & Key Highlights

Native FT4 Engine & Duplex Satellite Operation

  • Built-in C++ FT4 Engine: No external digital mode software required. The native engine handles full-duplex operation, allowing you to decode incoming signals even while transmitting on linear transponders.
  • In-Slot Doppler & Echo Calibration: Features slot-gated CAT Doppler tracking and automatic uplink trim calibration measured directly from your own decoded satellite echoes.
  • Smarter Decoding & Filtering: Includes whole-waterfall decoding, signal subtraction to pull weak traces out from under stronger ones, and specialized low-horizon decoding to capture contacts right down to AOS/LOS.
  • GPS Slot Timing: Option to sync FT4 slot timing against GPS time (via serial NMEA or gpsd) when your PC clock is drifting, keeping your slots locked on target without altering your system clock.
  • Operational Safety Interlocks: Built-in safeguards automatically limit transmit power to 30 W on supported transceivers (ICOM, Yaesu FT-991/A, Kenwood TS-2000) and restrict FT4 operation on FM-only satellites or non-permitted birds (such as AO-7).

Expanded Rig Control

  • Yaesu FT-857 / FT-857D Support: Added dedicated CAT driver support for dual-radio satellite setups using the FT-857 series.

Satellite Catalogue & TLE Resilience

  • Smarter TLE Caching: The satellite catalogue is now preserved if a TLE update fails (such as encountering a web server error like a 403 or 429). The current database will no longer be wiped, ensuring you can keep tracking without interruption.

📚 New Operator Guide

Digital satellite operation can feel a bit daunting if you are trying it for the first time. We have completely rewritten and expanded the FT4 documentation to help you get on the air quickly and smoothly.

Take a look at the new FT4 Guide under Help -> Operator's Guide in the app. It covers everything from setting up your audio levels and rig control, to completing your first contact walkthrough, understanding power limits, and best operational practices on busy passes.

🙌 A Huge Thank You to Our Supporters!

Development on OscarWatch Tracker — particularly complex projects like developing a native FT4 decoder from scratch — takes a considerable amount of time, testing, and effort.

This work is made possible entirely through the generosity of the amateur radio community. We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our supporters, including recent contributors:

  • Dave (M0SAT)
  • Jaume (EA3EA)
  • George (GI4SJQ)

Your backing directly funds ongoing development and keeps OscarWatch moving forward. If you find OscarWatch Tracker useful in your shack and would like to support future updates, please consider backing the project!

Detailed Summary of Changes (v1.0.5 to v1.1.0)

Click to view full list of updates and commit details
  • FT4 & Digital Engine:
    • Added native C++ FT4 codec and processing library (oscarwatch_ft8).
    • Implemented early in-slot decode (~6s) for rapid sequence response.
    • Added WSJT-X style waterfall rendering, adjustable text/line colours, and custom TX/RX audio band markers.
    • Added automated sequence handling (CQ, Grid, Report, RR73/RRR, 73) with Auto Reply and watchdog timer options.
    • Added opt-in decode reporting to both PSK Reporter (over UDP) and the OscarWatch.org API.
  • CAT & Hardware:
    • Added full Yaesu FT-857/857D dual-radio driver support.
    • Added Kenwood TS-2000 RF power read capabilities for power limit safety gates.
    • Fixed CTCSS encoder restoration on Yaesu FT-847 when returning from SAT FM modes.
    • Added Linux /dev/ttyRADIO udev alias detection in serial port selectors.
  • Fixes & Improvements:
    • Fixed issue where failed TLE HTTP downloads deleted local satellite caches.
    • Prevented repeated decodes on the same frequency slot from duplicating in the display list.
    • Fixed logbook grid propagation issues between consecutive contacts.
    • Added confirmation prompt before closing the FT4 window while active transmit keying is engaged.

Full Changelog: v1.0.5...v1.1.0

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