HF ACARS HFDL High Frequency Data Link

I have not used the software below but will be experimenting with it soon as I also use WACARS often to check VHF propogation.

HF ACARS, or HFDL (High Frequency Data Link) can be monitored by using a shortwave receiver and computer program.

This is the same way as monitoring VHF ACARS. As with VHF ACARS, there are several programs available that will decode it.

PC-HFDL, which can be downloaded at http://www.chbrain.dircon.co.uk/download/PC-HFDL%202.042%20Setup.zip.

PC-HFDL screen shot

PC-HFDL is a fairly simple and straightforward program to run. Just install it, hook your shortwave receiver to your sound card, and you’re ready to go. Be sure to read the manual file which will help you get started.

HF ACARS is transmitted on several HF frequencies including the following:

5547   6532   6535   6712   8834
8843   8912   8942   8977   10084
10087  21934  17934  15025  11184
11312  11315  11348  11384  21931
13276  13315  13321  17919  17928
17967  21949  21982

All frequencies will be in upper sideband (USB) mode.

Transmissions are in the form of data bursts as on the VHF frequencies, but the bursts will sound different as they are sent at a slower data rate than the VHF ACARS signal. As with VHF ACARS monitoring, the best results are achieved by leaving the HF receiver on one frequency and monitoring for a while. The same type of isolation using a 1:1 audio transformer between the HF receiver and soundcard input is recommended.

Some more Radio Related Information by the author on his website here   http://www.g4guo.blogspot.com.au/