Survey Comments
LOG
I STILL LOG ALL CONTACT ON PAPER I DON T
TRUST MY COMPUTER WITH SO MANY YEARS OF
INFORMATION THAT I MIGHT NEED FROM TIME TO TIME,BUT LATELY I HAVE STARTED TO LOG ALSO
ON COMPUTER IT IS VERY FAST TO FIND A QSO
OR SEE A INFORMATION YOU NEED
73....VE9VIC
Posted by
VE9VIC on 2003-11-10
Logging
Having been a ham since 1966 and using the old paper logs I found it abit hard to change or want to change for that reason but funny thing was last year when started using a PC log one has to ask "what took you so long son to change" Hi...certainly makes life alot easier especially in the "memory department" and keeps the housekeeping chores to a minimum...Now starting to use one for Contesting (where were you back in the 60's...Hi) 73's DE Bill ZL3NB
Posted by
ZL3NB on 2002-08-15
Logs...
In my 4 years as a Ham, I've never found a logging program that I like.
So it's paper logs all the way for me! ;-)
--
73 de Jack, M0PRO.
http://www.qsl.net/m5pro
Posted by
M0PRO on 2002-07-06
100% Computer logging now
I remember piles of old paper logs from the late 60's early 70's....After the computer era I bounced around...used Log-Eqf for DOS. Some early version, but it worked well, even the shareware version. (which I used for 2 years) Eventually bought version 8 of Log-Eqf. There were bugs, but Tom, N3EQF, was always responsive and friendly. Version 9 was even better. EQF is not a glitzy fancy looking program, but it just works well. Has an import/export module that works pretty good. EQF for Windows then came out and had a lot of the Windows interface features. Try the shareware version and find out how intuitive the program is. If you have any questions contact N3EQF and he will be glad to answer them. At Dayton he was up against the prettiest fancy programs. None of them will do anything that EQF won't. Paper logs/spiral books are just for notes while I operate, but Computer logging is the way to go. It did however make a contact mad to the point he used foul language when in a QSO party pile up I came back to him with his first name during a pileup. Something about "you G** Da**** computer geeks, the fun of hamming is telling you my information. You can take those d***** computers and put them where the sun don't shine" then he disappeared. Takes all kinds, my tool was his irratation.
Whatever you do, make backups, more than one. A hard drive crash can ruin your day. 73 de K9FE
Posted by
K9FE on 2002-07-06
Paper Logs
100% paper logs from the start, and see no reason to change. A computer is used here in the shack only for DX Cluster spotting, or demodulating digital modes. I will admit that computers do make the paperwork a lot easier for those who chase awards; especially if one used a computer from the start. However, it is still possible to do the same job using good old pen and paper if a good record systen has been developed. Computers are still somewhat too fragile; they can and do crash. Too often, programs that are in vogue today may not work in new machines made 5 years from now.
Posted by
W4MGY on 2002-07-05
Paper's the way to go for me
I've used the same logbook, a US Govt issue register book, since Feb 1993. I don't operate enough to get too technical, maybe 5-6 QSOs a day. The only time I could envision using computer logs is to use the same program to generate the QSO info labels to affix to my card. Still, there is a feeling of connectedness when I write the QSO data on my own card, myself.
Best 73, all.
Ray KA8SYX
Posted by
KA8SYX on 2002-07-05
Paper & Computer
34 years of paper logs and all HF QSOs since 1987 additionally on computer. Wrote my own logging program in Pascal and then C++, so have been able to maintain compatibility from DOS up through Windows 2000. Will probably have to recompile for Windows XP when/if I switch to that. The computer sure makes things easy for doing searches for previous QSOs and ofcourse is almost indispensable for contesting. Even though I've never lost a log file in 15 years of computer logging (good backup policies) I still like the paper log for archival purposes.
Posted by
N4ST on 2002-07-05
I don't log either
1) I don't contest.
2) I don't care to have a DXCC certificate
3) No one has ever asked for my QSL
4) The FCC doesn't require it
5) I run 5W. I'm not getting RFI in to the neighborhood, so I don't need my logs to show when I'm operating.
I really can't imagine why I'd bother logging. I mean, I don't log my conversations on the Internet, why should I on the radio?
Posted by
KD6JLS on 2002-07-04
What do you write in the Log?
I have excercise books as my working log. After the qso is
done I fill in the paper log and also a simple computer program,
(telephone book program) where I indicate the sequence
numbers of my QSOs. The telephone book program contains
only minimal information along with QSO No-s. (name, band,
QSL sent/received, mode of operation). The program is only
for searching purpose.
An interesting question: what I write in my exercise book? I
work mostly CW and it is very interesting to describe the
fist of the partner. Did he/she slowed down to my speed,
is the fist clear or transmitting all the together? Are there
special characters transmitted together etc.? I also try to
guess the type of the key (straight, elkey, bug, computer
program).
It is very interesting to compare my old notes to the new ones
when I meet the partner again. Fist usualy is not changed
like your way of speaking. Your sound can be changed but
not you intonation, temp etc.
73! de Andras HA5BDU.
Posted by
HA5BDU on 2002-07-04
Paper Logs are the way
Since I began my ham radio experience I have used paper logs, when I've used them. Since I have gotten into working DX and HF I have used paper. And besides paper don't lock up, crash and disappear. Computer logs are fine, but if you have failure you may never see it again.
Posted by
AB9DT on 2002-07-04
Logging
I use LogWindows, it's an EXCELLENT logging program, it tracks everything I could possibly want to keep track of; and then some. I also run something called AALog, mainly as a backup to a backup to a backup (of course I keep backups of the database on floppy)
If you haven't looked into LogWindows, it's worth a look.
For Contesting, I may do paper or into the computer, depending on the contest. I use N3JFP's field day logging program for Field Day (excellent program). But I don't do a great deal of contesting, so when I do, I handle it on a contest by contest basis.
Posted by
KG6DNJ on 2002-07-03
Logs - Prolog2K
I've been using prolog for several years now. Quite simply I don't know how I kept track of all this "stuff" when I used paper logs. It tracks dxcc, was, waz, counties, and any "custom" built awards I'd like to add. All kinds of sorts that can be done on the data... by band, by country, whatever. Greatest logging tool I've found!!
Posted by
W6DRB on 2002-07-03
Logs
I use a computer 100% of the time. Main log is DX Base from Scientific Solutions. Works great, you can have more fields than you will ever need. During contests I use NA & then import NA into DX Base. Last count I had over 15,000 QSO's logged & no problems from either program.
Posted by
K5PX on 2002-07-03
PDA
Don't forget the trusty Palm...
Posted by
KD5RFT on 2002-07-03
I'm Anal
I use both paper and computer logs. I have had way too many computer crashes to rely on computer logging only. Until I can confirm that the computer will not "eat" my QSO records, I will use both. And yes I do backup on the computer! FWIW I have tried many logger programs over the last 4mo in search of the one which best suits my needs and I have settled on ACLog. The program is intuitive and gets the job done efficiently.
Posted by
KC9BAV on 2002-07-03
Logs
As a CW operator I tend to copy onto paper. All the QSO info goes there. Time, date, call sign, etc. I then input the information into a Database I designed using Microsoft Access. When I want to know if I've worked or QSL'd a station before I just enter the call and the QSO info pops up on the screen. Easier than searching through lines of a paper log.
Posted by
WB2TQC on 2002-07-01
Logging
I log every contact on HF. I still have my paper logs but, several years ago went to computer logging. I use EQF (both DOS and Windows versions) and love it. The time is taken from my pc and changed to UTC, the frequency and mode are obtained from the rig, and the callsign info is taken from a CD ROM database. If I dial up a freq in the CW section of the band, the logging program will change the rig to CW (this can be overridden). If I had a rotor it would also control that. All I really have to do is type in the call sign and notes that I want for reference. And I'm only using a few of the available features. It's great for awards tracking, printing CW and QSL labels. For backup I update the Windows Briefcase which syncs the log files with another computer over a wireless ethernet.
Posted by
N9EF on 2002-07-01
Both
Computer logging only for contests, and paper logging for everything else.
Reason is, I hate having to run a computer in the shack unless it's really necessary to do so, such as the station automation required to compete in a contest. And I hate having my operating area cluttered up by a keyboard, even a slide-away one.
Posted by
WB2WIK on 2002-07-01
Logging
I use CT for contests. For other logging I use WJ2O. I find it easy to switch over to it when making the contact. Coverted paper logs from 1981 to this program. Big job entering 15K contacts but now worth the trouble. Yes I agree that keeping backup of the program is a necessity.
Posted by
KC7UP on 2002-07-01
All Computer Logging Now
I have just recently gone to a 100% computer logging system, it was a logical next step since the computer is on nearly 100% of the time in the shack anyhow. I have however been using computer logging for contesting since 1992. I now use VQLog for my main logging program and WriteLog for contesting. I have since imported all of my log entries into VQLog going back to 1992, the 1980 through 1991 period will be a real pain to import since they are all on paper. It sure is nice being able to bring Grid Square maps up on the screen showing all the grids worked over all the years or by some other defined time period. As for the durability of the logs it is no trick to just print them out on paper every now and then, that gives you the best of best both worlds.
Posted by
N9DG on 2002-06-30
Logs
Point and click on the DX spot.
If I work the DX first, I spot it on the internet, and then point and click on my spot.
Once or twice a year, I sort my log by call signs, and send cards for unconfirmed I want.
When cards come in, I sort by calls, enter the call I want, and check the Q has been confirmed.
I never bothered to type in Qs from my paper logs, just a few Qs for confirmed countries from my current call. Started working towards all countries under my present call.
Posted by
RobertKoernerExAE7G on 2002-06-30
Logging
Everything is done on paper here, but I do keep stats such as countries and zones on my computer using the Logger program. I know immediately what countries I need (pushing 290 worked) so I don't have to rely on the computer. It is strictly a backup. Still don't trust them!
Posted by
N2SU on 2002-06-30
Logs
Got in the habit of paper logs for years while doing SWL before my ham ticket 11 years ago. Sometimes I don't turn the computer on but will get on the radio so the paper logs work for me. Though I use the computer for just about everything, just can't seem to find time to replicate paper logs. Also, it helped when I got started with a neighbors cordless phone. Blamed me for all the static, even when I was out of town!!!
Posted by
N3MVF on 2002-06-30
Logs
I use paper for everthing except when I enter a contest. Then the computer helps keep track of QSO's and makes sending logs in easier.
Posted by
NJ3K on 2002-06-30
Loging with computer
At one time, I used a chisle and stone. Then I used parchment. Then it was paper - which, rumour has it, is still in use in some remote areas of the world.
But I use LogWindows. This program set the standard for logging software many years ago for it's simplicity (all in a single window vs. the mess you get with other's multiple windows). The new 32-bit program is TOP notch.
You get the best program and great support.
So I use it for everything and would recommend it to anyone.
Mike, WA9PIE
Posted by
WA9PIE on 2002-06-29
Still on paper
Glad to see so many people using paper logs. I still have all of my old logbooks from when I started in 1981 as KA0IFG. It just seems easier to write it in the logbook as opposed to booting up the computer, getting the program running, etc. I do use NA logging for contests, but for all casual operating (and for contests I can't get a NA template working for) I use paper and always will.
Posted by
NE0P on 2002-06-28
LOGS
I use "Log Windows", a full-featured logging program with award tracking and reporting, rig and rotor control, and DX cluster monitoring. A true 32-bit version is being introduced shortly for optimum performance. It is a really great program. Try it; you will love it!
Posted by
NT1V on 2002-06-28
very much plain old text
I use a UNIX Perl script dumblog.pl, which is pretty concise and well-served for my purpose to convert the plain text log file to the ADIF format. No problem on submitting to eqsl.cc.
Well, I first write on paper, as I did when I started ham radio 26 years ago.
Posted by
JJ1BDX on 2002-06-28
LOGS
I keep 3 logs. Paper (ARRL Logbook), Logwindows 3 (for DX contacts), and
LOGic 5.3 for ALL contacts.
Posted by
NT9E on 2002-06-28
Logs
I'm doing all with the computer, using UCXLog (excellent freeware!). It is used for QSO's, contesting, QSL-work etc. I today don't have a CW-key in my shack (80% CW). But I'm also doing data-backups and a printout on paper after a few months.
Holger DL7IO
PS: UCXLOG can be downloaded under www.funkstation.info/software
Posted by
DL7IO on 2002-06-28
How can you not log??
My ham radio logbook is a "ham radio history" for me. I can look back years and years and remember the excitement of many of those first DX contacts. I couldn't imagine not logging. The only thing I skip logging are my mobile repeater contacts. I even have my logbooks online: http://www.ac0x.com
Posted by
AC0X on 2002-06-28
On Floppy
I use YPLog a great logging program from Calgary AB. If you are keeping a computer log. Be sure to back-up your log files to floppy. A floppy can store pages and pages of logged qso's.
73 Gerry
Posted by
VE7BGP on 2002-06-28
Logging Program.
I use 8.5x11.0 with Wallace Version #2.0. Occasionally I'll use the Wallace #2.5 for a darker printout.
Save a tree- write small.
Geo>K0FF
Posted by
K0FF on 2002-06-28
Logging Program.
I use 8.5x11.0 with Wallace Version #2.0. Occasionally I'll use the Wallace #2.5 for a darker printout.
Save a tree- write small.
Geo>K0FF
Posted by
K0FF on 2002-06-28
logs
Cant fanthom not keeping logs. Even if you dont want a QSL, the other guy may, and then how do you determine his info is correct? Have a dozen old ARRL logbooks , plus several loose leaf binders full of logs from WN5QMX WA5UKR ET3USA SV0WPP VS6DD WA5UKR/YV5 N7DC/YV5 G5CTB but about a year ago went to YpLog. Went back and filled in approximately 5000 QDSOs on the computer, to include the 331 countries I have worked in this QTH (17 years) and the 2001 plus 2002 entries. Sure easier to tell what countries are missing, and even picked out one I didnt know I had, by doing all that. uch easier to keep track of bands and modes as well.
Posted by
N7DC on 2002-06-28
For normal QSO's I have a paper log which I occasionally (every week or so) copy into the computer. Contests are logged directly into the computer. All QSO's are kept with luxlog - sometimes it's hard to convert log-data from one log-book (contest loggers..) to another,m but with a little homebrew adif-conversion routine, it works very well
Posted by
DJ5CW on 2002-06-28
LOGS
I still have my original paper logbook from '75, but except when portable, I have been computer logging since the late 80s. I use a program called Perfect Filer that will run off a 5 1/4" floppy on an XT. I created a record with all the necessary fields for logging. Nowadays I run it in a DOS window in Win98, and it still looks decent, can search, and works like a charm for basic logging...hate to give up on it! (But no it doesn't computer control the rig hi hi!) 73 de Mark N8COO
Posted by
N8COO on 2002-06-28
logs
I have been licensed for about a year and a half and I keep all my contacts in a paper log. I was considering a computer log, but it is not like a paper log.
Eddie KG4LFZ
Posted by
KG4LFZ on 2002-06-28
My Logging
I started with a paper log then paper log and computer logging program now jest a computer program with all of my contacts in it (HF). I keep the computer program backed up and the computer has been very useful to check and keep track on things do not know how I did without it.
Posted by
K9FLP on 2002-06-28
Logs
I'm a logging junkie. I've kept paper logs since the beginning (complete with coffee stains, sweat, and tears). I like the sense of history. I use the computers in my shack for all kinds of housekeeping and digital stuff, so they take care of logging, too. For contests, I use WriteLog (then print out a copy to include in the paper log). For general logging I use DXBase. I love the way it interfaces with my rig, telnets to the dx cluster and works with HamScope (another great program!) Keeping track of DX is the main reason to use the computer log. When it's all done, though, I still make notes in the paper log. I finally got through to Ed (P5/4l4FN) on rtty the other day. The computer can keep track of what I worked and when arrl accepts rtty contacts. But nothing will replace the exclamation points in my good old log.
Posted by
N7NOG on 2002-06-28
Both
I have been using XMLog for almost a year now and it is very good and friendly to an old dog. However, I still log contacts on paper in my log book. I expect that one day I will get up the confidence to go to computer only. This program does everything! And it's free!
Happy 4th to all,
Jim
Posted by
W2JBS on 2002-06-28
Both
My general operation is logged on paper; contest operation on computer. I may make more QSO's in 2 hours of a contest than I make during a year of general operation.
Posted by
K3YD on 2002-06-28
LOGS
Like most, I kept all my QSO'S in the old paper log book until such time computers and software became affordable to me. I started out first with just using CT for contesting, but soon found that computer logging was the only way to go. I use LOG-EQF for all my general logging, but use either WRITE-LOG or CT for contesting. What I really like about computer logging is that when I type in a call sign, it automatically brings up any past QSO'S and if there are any interesting notes I made during one of the previous QSO'S, it's right in front of me. I'm going to enter all my log book entries one day(s). Do I miss the old paper/pen method? No.
With the computer log, the time, frequency, mode, etc. is entered correctly, and when the QSL card comes in, it's simple to mark them off.
Posted by
VA7TT on 2002-06-28
LOGS
I would like to see a survey on the most popular logging programs....not necessarily those that are the most expensive, but what people like to use. Contest alone, Logging alone or a combination log!
Patrick
W4PW
Posted by
W4PW on 2002-06-27
LOGS
I would like to see a survey on the most popular logging programs....not necessarily those that are the most expensive, but what people like to use. Contest alone, Logging alone or a combination log!
Patrick
W4PW
Posted by
W4PW on 2002-06-27
LOGS
I use the computer and paper logs in tandem. The paper log is for the contacts and info in real time and the computer log is done to track QSL's, states and countries.
I use Gen Log which is a free-ware program that I downloaded from the internet.
Bill-WF1L
Posted by
WF1L on 2002-06-27
Logs
I've been on the air since 1959, and really enjoy "old fashioned" paper logging, replete with hand-drawn diagrams on the back (blank side) of the pages, and with notes in the side-columns. Although there are times when I'd like to use a computer, I shudder at the thought of manually entering all those past QSOs!
Posted by
AI2Q on 2002-06-27
logs
I keep a log as a working document to protect me from my neighbors. By keeping accurate times on air I am able to determine that any neighbor qrm problems are mine or not. For example around two years ago my neighbor to the west of me was having "wierd power surges" turning her lights on and off! The electric company found nothing. One day chatting over the fence she told me of her problem. I checked my log and I felt a lump since it might be something caused by me!
To make a long story short...the problem was the fact she had 3 of those damn touch lamps! I took them and verified yep...even 5 watts will effect them...I rebuilt them, installed new sensors, new lamp cord proper polarity plug, ferrites bead and sense resistor. A final test in the shack and 1.5kw did not effect them. I returned them and she has been happy ever after!
moral of the story...even though the FCC no longer requires an logging it can't hurt and often is a very usefull tool.
Marty e'mail ka7gkn@arrl.net
Posted by
KA7GKN on 2002-06-27
MobileLog, WriteLog, Logger
MobileLog (which I wrote) when Mobile.
WriteLog, when contesting at home.
Logger to track QSLing efforts.
But overall, every QSO is tracked on my PocketPC with MobileLog.
Pat NØHR
Posted by
N0HR on 2002-06-27
I don't keep logs???
Here in the UK keeping an accurate log is strict licencing stipulation that must include callsign worked, time qso start/end, band, power output and mode. The log needs to include any transmissions including tuning, cq calls and EMC tests. Like KA7GKN, I have found it very useful when dealing with an RFI problem with one of neighbours. I had considered using a logging application on my PC (there are some good apps for Linux) but found it to be too time consuming. I like to be making the contacts not being too bogged down with the admin!!
73 M0UKR Alex
Posted by
M0UKR on 2002-06-27
Hmmm....
I don't log (and nobody else I know does, either)...except for all those callsign "doodles" on the notepad at the desk. With people changing callsigns under the vanity program, the person you log today may not exist tomorrow! Often, if I know I'm going to be sending a QSL, I'll write all the stuff on a sticky note and stick it somewhere. I used to keep a really comprehensive log on the computer, but the hard drive crashed and I lost everything. That was five years ago, and I never got back in the habit.
Posted by
KE4MOB on 2002-06-27
Logging those Q's
Taking away the requirement for logging amateur transmissions is not one of the smarter things the FCC has done. I've been using various versions of the DXBASE computer logging software since 1999. I back up my database files on ZIP disks. No more paper logs for me!
Posted by
NI0C on 2002-06-27
Logs
I've always prefered a paper log, my log BOOK has a non volatile memory!
Rob M0BOL
Posted by
M0BOL on 2002-06-27
Auto Log
I am 100% digital operation, so the PC program handles all the logging automatically. ;-)
Posted by
NB6Z on 2002-06-27
Log on paper and computer
I use a paper log book during all QSO's, then when I'm not going to be on the radio I will the copy the paper log into the computer. I had a hard drive crash some time back, thank god I had a paper backup or I would have lost every QSO I ever made. Even for field day I use paper, then use the computer later.
73's and good dx de Eric...KD4MZM...
Posted by
KD4MZM on 2002-06-27
Paper and Log
I use LogWindows new 32 bit version for my logging -- great program with enlightened support and developers! Wish could find folks like that for my business software support.
I also usually keep a paper log, mostly out of habit and what feels sometimes like continuity -- been doing it since 1965, and there is something pleasant about it. Gives me somewhere to doodle while the DX gets around to the 8's....Of course like most paper and pencil "databases," it's useless beyond the aesthetic.
Posted by
K8DE on 2002-06-27