PACTOR
A shortwave data mode that sends email and files, with the receiving station acknowledging each block.
ModePACTOR
FamilyUtility data
Audio example10.4 s
What does it sound like?
Plate 47Utility data
Short chirping bursts that alternate between two stations, back and forth.
0 Hz1,0002,0003,000 Hz
10.4-second example. A clean example made by our own signal generator; signals on the air usually sound noisier.
Field marksTwo stations taking turnsShort bursts and quick acknowledgments
Who uses it?
Ships (for example SailMail), Winlink email users and emergency groups.
Where and when can I hear it?
Various HF channels, including Winlink and SailMail station frequencies.
Easily confused with
- STANAG 4285 (NATO modem): STANAG runs continuously
- ALE (automatic link establishment): ALE bursts are rapid and repeated across channels