After extensive testing, and with the aid of Julian, VK4CMV, who confirmed
the existence of the exact same errors occurring with his WSJT-X
operations, I come to the conclusion that changes to Microsoft Windows via
periodic Windows updates, may be a major player in error activity.
Testing was done on 3 different versions of WSJT-X (r3673, r4400, & r4633)
in total isolation from the world, save "on-air" signal input. Almost
every permutation of disabling software, option settings, etc. were
employed in a very large number of tests. Each test was performed after a
complete scrubbing of my laptop's hard drive, memory, and drivers. No
positive effects were observed during the tests.
I finally uninstalled every Windows update placed into service in Dec 2014,
and re-tested. Results were most encouraging, with long runs of each
WSJT-X version before a hiccup. Hiccups were cured by restarting WSJT-X
(not the optimum resolution, but much better than others found to date).
Final confirmation of WSJT-X - Windows interaction having some relationship
to the errors observed came when each Windows update was individually re-
installed. No change to the much improved operation of WSJT-X versions was
observed until two different updates were installed. Each caused a slow-
down of decoding, increased errors, and frequent Decode lock-ups.
The "offending" Windows Updates are:
KB3025390 - major "offender"
KB2952664 - minor "offender"
With these two Windows updates uninstalled, and everything but the kitchen
sink attached to the laptop and every bit of software normally used in weak
signal operations here running, the results of testing were impressive.
Fast decoding (I use "Deepest" decoding), and a noteworthy improvement in
mean time between errors. Best, only one decoder lock-up over 6+ hours of
testing. If a KV error occurs, with or without the pop-up error window,
normal operation continues. The pop-up error window can be closed when it
appears - no observable deterioration in normal operations occur when that
pop-up appears, nor when it is manually closed.
Any thoughts about this line of testing and its results?
Best 73,
Paul DU2/WA8UGN
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