What information replaces signal-to-noise ratio when using the FT8 or FT4 modes in a VHF contest?

In FT8 and FT4 normal operations, a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) report is traditionally exchanged. However, in VHF contests, a station's location is a primary multiplier and a strict requirement for scoring. To accommodate this, the standard contest exchange is modified in the software so that a 4-character grid square replaces the SNR report. This allows the software to seamlessly handle the required contest exchange without exceeding the digital mode's brief payload limits. Other options like an RST report or a Serial number are commonly used in traditional CW or SSB contests. They are not typically inserted in place of the SNR in standard FT8/FT4 VHF contest mode settings.