Question
Which of these digital modes has the highest data throughput under clear communication conditions?
Answer Options
- A) MFSK16
- B) 170 Hz shift, 45 baud RTTY
- C) FT8
- D) PACTOR IV
Correct Answer: D
Explanation
Data throughput refers to the amount of actual data successfully transferred over a link per unit of time. Under ideal conditions, high-speed, advanced digital modes designed with sophisticated coding and compression typically achieve the highest throughput compared to simpler, older modes.
PACTOR IV is the most advanced version of the PACTOR family of modes and is designed for maximum speed and data integrity over HF. Under clear communication conditions, its high symbol rate and highly efficient compression allow it to achieve a significantly higher net data throughput (transferring binary files, email, etc.) than older, slower, or specialized weak-signal modes like RTTY, MFSK16, or FT8.
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