Hi Trent,
I think contest programs like N1MM and Writelog are too specialized for General logging. For one thing they have to keep up with all the contests, the algorithm for scoring and the constantly changing cty file, etc.
However having said that, AA5AU used to tell people if they didn't need the award tracking they might be better to stay with the contest logging software of their choice. The reasoning was you would get used to it's feature set and be ready for contest season without another learning curve. That thought has some merit.
Even though there are programs linking a contest programs like N1MM to DXLab, I find it just as easy to do simple adif file exports and imports.
Recommending logging software is like recommending a car. What's right for one person is not good fit for another. That's why I always state what I'm using and why. Then let the chips fall where they may. Even offer to help them if it's not software I'm currently using. Between the two of us we can usually get the job done.
I still do AClog for other hams and one them is blind. That's all he ever knew before he went blind. However I will usually check for fat finger mistakes and correct them with DXLab. Then I will upload his QSOs from there to LOTW.
Started out with Log Master speaks in the late 90s. Then I moved over to Logger 16/32 and then DX4WIN for many years. Then finally moved over to DXLab because I could see the author's sticking around for a long time because of his love of DXing. In the past logging software authors averaged around 4 years or so? Then they would get burned out and move on.
73 jay/w5jay..
-------- Original message --------
Date: 5/16/22 12:03 PM (GMT-06:00)
Subject: Re: [ADXA] Logging Program Recommendations
Well, I wanted to weigh in. Early on in my automated logging, I used VQlog out of loyalty to Gabriel, who produces the great VHF and above openings maps. It was great for basic logging and tracking, but he struggled with connectivity to LOTW and etc. So I started looking around. I tried HRD, but because I don't have a ton of time for radio, I felt the learning curve was too steep. So I've settled on DXlabs, and have decided that - for the price - it may be the best thing out there. However, I keep going back to N1MM for contests, unless its one of the state or other contest that NF3JP supports - his software is nice also but the general log program wasn't robust enough.
Finally, I wanted to say - as opposed to many of the ham message boards I read - how refreshing it is that everyone has shared opinions in such an open, positive way without trashing someone else's experience or opinion.
Appreciate ya'll!
73,
Trent
N4DTF
EM55
Hi Steve,
I am absolutely in love with Log4OM. It gives me everything I need to hunt DX and faithfully log with a minimum of user intervention. I currently log automatically to LOTW, QRZ and ClubLog. Best of all it is FREE. Once you start using it I am sure you will feel like donating to the cause. It is very well supported and runs flawlessly. I was a DX4Win user for years and got tired of paying the annual subscriptions for something that didn't do everything I want in a logging program. I am now super happy I made the switch!
GL & 73,
Rory, K5CKS
Well, I have given up on DXBase. Recurring problems on two programs on
two computers. I am unable to create an ADIF file on either of them to
upload to LOTW. After two weeks of struggling with the problem, I give
up. I'm looking for a program that provides a seamless upload to LOTW,
it doesn't have to be automatic. However, I would rather not have to
hunt for files, make 10 keystrokes, etc. Having a display available for
DX stats and the ability of integrate Internet Cluster. Something that
doesn't require an intimate knowledge of Windows problems.
Joel told me he is using DX4WIN. DX Keeper is another one I'm familiar
with. Also HRD. DXBase was a great program but there was no support.
I think most of the ops still using it are probably IT specialists. :)))))
I'm running Windows 10 home here.
Any suggestions would be most appreciated. BTW, DXAC has a Zoom meeting
this afternoon. It will be interesting. I will report anything of
interest. DXAC has not been tasked with anything but the usual stuff
keeps coming up and we are going to review/discuss it. If there is
anything you want ME to mention, please let me know.
73.
Steve, 901-849-7449
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