New to digital modes and trying to get JS8Call working with my FTDX-10. Software doesn't have FTDX-10 in the dropdown, but selected FTDX-101 and it seems to work. However, I'm on 20m right now and the waterfall is completely empty.

Downloaded FLDigi as backup and planning to try that next. I understand JS8Call takes FT8's robustness and adds messaging capability for actual conversations rather than just signal reports. Sounds perfect for what I want - real keyboard-to-keyboard chats with weak signal performance.

Am I looking in the wrong place, or is JS8Call activity just sparse? What frequencies should I monitor and what times are best for activity?

Welcome to digital keyboard communications! Try RTTY, PSK, and Olivia in FLDigi for typed conversations. JS8Call activity is lighter than FT8 - check 7.078MHz on 40m or 14.078MHz on 20m during US evening hours. Also monitor JS8Call groups.io for activity announcements.

JS8Call is fantastic but activity varies by band and time. It's essentially FT8 with messaging capability, great for off-grid emergency communications. Try 40m in evenings or 20m during daylight hours. The JS8Call Facebook group posts activity schedules and nets regularly.

Check PSK Reporter after transmitting some CQ calls - put your callsign in to see where you're being heard, then try different bands and times. JS8Call is growing but nowhere near FT8 levels yet. Many operators moved from PSK31 to FT8 due to typing speed limitations.