| W7LB |
Rating:  |
2021-03-31 | |
| Flexible and Robust |
Time Owned: more than 12 months. |
DXKeeper was easy to set up with my IC7300 and I have also set up many of its additional features. To add to what others have said, I would like to emphasize several things that have made this program for me a keeper (no pun intended).
DXKeeper and the other modules all operate within their own resizable windows, rather than being incorporated into a fully integrated page that completely takes over your computer screen. So for example, the input page for DXKeeper is small and separate from the larger log page. So I can keep the input page any where I want on the computer screen and the log page can be kept minimized until you need it. The CAT-Control module (Commander) squeezes all of the capability you would expect into a window that is only about 3X5 inches on my computer screen. As a result I am able to keep the CAT control together on the same screen with my SDRUno panadapter/waterfall, the DXView world map, the Band Map with DX spots reflected on it plus my browser with QRZ on it. I can't think of another logger program that not only gives you all the functionality but also allows you to organize it all any way you want. Because of this one feature, for me DXKeeper is a keeper!
Another thing I would emphasize is the integrated nature of DXKeeper within the DXLab suite. I really enjoy how everything ties together. So not only does the frequency on the radio automatically plug into the logger input page, but simply by typing a call sign in, the input page will plug in the name, address and associated information from its "look up" feature. In addition, it was fairly easy to set it up such that the DX spotting module (SpotCommander) integrates with the logger input page as well as the CAT-control, the Lookup feature, the Band Map and the World Map. So I can click on a spot and the radio will automatically switch band and modes to bring up that frequency, the Lookup feature will activate and the Band Map will show the DX location. Meanwhile the panadapter is following the changes. And then I can also click on a signal on the panadapter to get the radio to automatically change band and mode.
I have taken a look at other logger programs, Ham Radio Deluxe and Log4OM in particular, and have not been able to identify any reason to switch.
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| K7SHR |
Rating: |
2021-03-29 | |
| And It's Free, Too?? |
Time Owned: 6 to 12 months. |
DXKeeper is so rich with features that I was afraid that learning to use it would be a daunting experience. Fortunately, I was able to “eat the elephant one bite at a time” with gratifying success at each step. I started with just logging QSOs, then incorporated LOTW and other features little by little. I also added DXCommander. Not only have the programs worked flawlessly, the online instructions are extremely helpful. There are instructions on just about anything you can think of. And, as others have said, if you’re stuck on something, there’s an online user’s group.
The developer, Dave, AA6YQ, has given the amateur community a wonderful gift with this suite of programs. I am astonished that Dave has not only created these programs, and keeps them updated, and creates such comprehensive instructions, but he also answers questions posted on the online user’s group. Dave has suggested that anyone who wants to show their appreciation simply make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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| GM0HUU |
Rating: |
2021-01-07 | |
| Excellent and versatile application. |
Time Owned: more than 12 months. |
Tried a few different logging applications. However, when I discovered and started using DXKeeper about 6 years ago, I have not even considered looking for anything else. Absolutely everything I have wanted to do with my log, I have found a way to do it. It also integrates with other popular applications to allow single-click QSO logging. Because it is based on Access Database, I can very quickly set up and save a list of search filters. I have found that the manual is very good and regular software updates are produced.
Although it can at first appear a bit daunting and complex, I quickly found out how to use the basic QSO logging functions and ignored the majority of the features. Now, as time progresses, I am using more and more features.
Thank you DXLab Suite. |
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| NX8P |
Rating: |
2021-01-03 | |
| What? Free? Great software! |
Time Owned: 0 to 3 months. |
| I researched extensively for a reasonably priced logging software for my computer. I've been using a paper log book for years. . . since about 1980. I downloaded several logging software packages and tried them. Some were so difficult to understand/use and some were just too expensive for me. DXKeeper is the one I liked best and offered the most flexibility combined with easy to understand set up. I can't believe this software is free. I even looked for a link on their page to I can donate to them, but didn't find anything. I was able to fully integrate DXKeeper with WSTJ-X and ultimately with my Flex-3000. Set up was uneventful which is the way I like it. Plug and chug. I'm still learning the software because it offers so many options. I was able to link it easily to my LOTW and eQSL accounts so when I'm operating digital it is automatic logging to those sites. You can also manually enter QSOs for voice modes without issues. I've even configured the DXLauncher to launch PowerSDR and WSTJ-X automatically. This is really nice software and it is FREE! There was quite a bit of work and thinking when this software was developed. Very logical in its construction. Thank you DXKeeper! Keep up the great work! |
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| AB1F |
Rating: |
2020-09-07 | |
| The Best Logger! |
Time Owned: 0 to 3 months. |
Some of the best things in life are free. DXKeeper is one of them. When I was looking to convert my 25-year old, self-created Paradox database with over 15K+ entries to a present-day ADIF compliant logbook, I looked at several of the software available, including a paid software (on trial basis). DXKeeper outperformed them all, hands down.
No other software I know of can track as wide a variety of awards as DXKeeper. Most are heavily tilted in favor of North American awards, but with DXKeeper you can track Japanese, Korean, Russian, several European, and many more - the entire DX spectrum.
DXKeeper also syncs with eQSL and LoTW.
In addition, it is part of the 8-piece DXLab Suite. All free.
The best part is the user support forum, and, of course, the creator of DXKeeper, Dave -AA6YQ. Responses to requests for assistance were received in less than 24 hours.
Outstanding! Highly recommended! |
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| KE0ROU |
Rating: |
2018-06-26 | |
| Stay with it |
Time Owned: 0 to 3 months. |
I have been using DXKeeper for as long as I remember. I tried using it for a few QSOs and I didn't like it. I uninstalled and used QRZ for a bit.
Then, I redownloaded it a week later.
I found all the QSL and online QSL settings, I found that JTNotifier can log to it. There is so much this program can do, just look around it for a week to find them all.
Oh yeah, it's free. Just try it out! |
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| YY5RAY |
Rating: |
2018-05-14 | |
| Exactly what I need |
Time Owned: 0 to 3 months. |
| After downloading and trying (for no more than a few days each) about a dozen logging software, this is the winner for me. Escalable, comprehensive and full of features. |
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| N1BUG |
Rating: |
2016-03-24 | |
| Logging for the serious DXer |
Time Owned: more than 12 months. |
DXKeeper is the logging component of the DXLab software suite.
I tried many logging programs before I found DXKeeper. None of them was really what I wanted. There was always something lacking: poor DX awards tracking, poor log search and sort functions, not enough configuration options. I have been very satisfied with DXKeeper. There is more of a learning curve than with some other software, but that is because it is so powerful and flexible. The time I spent learning the program was some of the best time spent in amateur radio. It has greatly enhanced my DXing activities.
Support couldn't be better. There is a very active online support community where assistance from other users and the developer is always quickly available.
I can't imagine going back to DXing without DXKeeper (and the rest of the suite)! |
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| N4BC |
Rating: |
2016-03-23 | |
| The best that I've found! |
Time Owned: more than 12 months. |
This is the logging module of a great Suite of programs. I have used DXKeeper for years, and have been satisfied with its performance since adopting it. I have tried other newer, flashier programs as they came out, but always revert to this one.
It does what I need it to do and it does it well. I also use most of the other programs in the Suite and am satisfied with them as well. A gentle warning though - don't expect to install this and dive right in without reading a bit. It is a program of awesome capability and to fully utilize its features, you need to consult the documentation.
Give it a chance and I think you'll be as satisfied as I have been. |
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| W4QN |
Rating: |
2016-03-22 | |
| The Best |
Time Owned: more than 12 months. |
I was a late comer to computer logging, tried many of the popular programs but none "took" until I tried DXLAB. The modular format allowed me to begin using DXKeeper (logging info) which began the process of capturing QSO data onto a computer file.
It was a slow but progressive process to add modules as the use and benefits were understood.
BTW the above is not a methodology I would now recommend. Initially adding the other modules provides many functions that are easy to use and very beneficial.
Because DXLab is so feature RICH, the learning curve can be quite steep. I have introduced many to this program and now always recommend activating DXKeeper, Capture, Pathfinder, DXView and Commander (if the Rig is CAT controllable). These modules active, actually simplify the logging process and virtually eliminates any detail typing. It is helpful however to have a mentor to help in the initial configuration of the modules.
Linkage to QRZ.com, completes QSO Log detail info, Name, address and even QSL mgr. Other details are gather from either the 'Spot' or data inputted to Capture (freq, mode etc.)
Deletions, and corrections are just a few keystokes. Managing QSO's,, DXCC Progress, uploading to LoTW, eQSL, and club log are also just a few key strokes. As mentioned in other reviews, support is SUPERB.
It is not a "contest" logging program, but does allow you to participate as a casual operator and capture the necessary pertinent data. N1MM and others are easily imported to keep your overall log up to date.
Follow the guidelines when downloading the modules; Start with the LAUNCHER, and use that to download the rest for trouble free setup.
Remember Help is available on the DXLab Yahoo Reflector
It is easy to import and convert most other programs into DXKeeper.
Try it, I think you will like it, but I also recognize that for many the "Best software is the one I know how to use". But that does not mean that is best
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