[NLRS] Logging

[Matt Burt]

For logging contests I use a PC if I am portable of fixed.  Entering the QSO
information goes fast as some of the software will recognize callsigns and
provide the default grid from the prior event or QSO.  I have used the PC
in the rover but it is more complicated for all the obvious reasons.  It was
cool however during RoverMania I to have all that electronics of rigs, GPS, PC,
power inverters, rotor boxes, etc running on the armrest and front seat of my
Ram pickup when the Law enforcement arrived to investigate the complaint of the
bobbing headlights south of town...

Seriously though I have not had any issue with RFI from a PC.  I typically use
my Sony Vio notebook which has a 15" XFT display and all is dead quiet RFI
wise.

So I use the clipboard and log sheet method most of the time roving during the
contest.  As many of you know I have used a voice recorder (while driving) as
well.  During busy times of the contest I do miss the dupe checking benefit of
the software...  

Post contest I typically open up a logging program such as roverlog and fill in
the information from both hand written sheets and the voice log.  I have to say
that I don't type (a least very fast) but the log entry goes quickly.  I have a
few tricks for fixing the time etc that help too ... won't use bandwidth here
to explain... 

Most of the logging programs do a pretty good job of giving you a file that the
robot will accept ... but if there is a problem with something the text is real
easy to modify to make the robot happy.

So after all checks I print out a copy of the log for my files, submit the e
log
file to the league and retain a copy of the e log electronically and backed up
to a disk.

This may seem like a bit of work but I have a say that the first time is the
worst ... after that it goes very fast.  The only real complaint I have is with
the league's lack of cabrillo format line examples for file submission with
respect to operation class and the name of the contest.  The contest branch
could do a better job with that issue.

73,
Matt
KF0Q