If you want to decode digital data (pagers, weather fax, RTTY, etc.) using your 17L portable, use these instead:
| Software | What it decodes | Works with | |--------------|----------------------|----------------| | PDW (Paging Decoder) | POCSAG, FLEX (pagers) | Audio from radio → PC mic/line input | | Sorcerer | RTTY, FAX, CW, SSTV | Same | | MultiPSK | Dozens of digital modes (Packet, ACARS, PSK, etc.) | Same | | Dream | DRM (Digital Radio Mondiale) | Same | | SDR# (SDRSharp) + plugins | Many digital modes (if using an SDR dongle) | RTL-SDR dongle (not needed for portable radio) |
How to use:
The W-Code software is designed for Windows 7, 8.1, and 10. It may run on Windows 11 with compatibility settings. Do not attempt macOS or Linux without full virtualization and USB passthrough.
We strongly advocate for the legal download of Wavecom W-Code. However, if you have an older 17L Portable and Wavecom no longer supports it, consider these legal alternatives that can interface with the 17L’s IF output: If you want to decode digital data (pagers,
None of these offer the seamless integration of W-Code. If you manage to obtain a second-hand 17L without software, your best course is to contact the original distributor for a software re-issue fee (typically $300–$600).
W-Code is a Windows-native application. It runs best on: None of these offer the seamless integration of W-Code
Before clicking any download link, you must understand what W-Code is and how it interacts with the 17L Portable.
Subject: Acquisition and Compatibility of Wavecom W-Code Software for 17L Portable Units Date: October 26, 2023 Status: Restricted / Proprietary W-Code is a Windows-native application
Once you have successfully downloaded Wavecom W-Code and installed it for your 17L Portable, perform these calibration steps:
W-Code is industry-standard for intercepting and decoding digital data signals. Its primary strength lies in its ability to process signals in real-time and offline (from recorded .wav or .iq files). Key features include: