Survey Comments
E-QSL's
I'm not licensed yet but am avid in chasing band opennings. I can't talk yet but I will send reports back to those I hear on distance by E-Mail if listed and report their RST's back, I still follow up and send a card. So far DXer's I have corresponded with prefer cards but I don't and can't speak for them.
MPO--- I'd rather send a card and an E-Mail
both!!
Posted by
KB1THH on 2006-12-20
kb8njh
Doesn't it cheapen the whole QSL Experience?...Remember waiting for that rare
one to come through the bureau. Or getting
the blank look from your local Postmaster
when you asked for your first I.R.C. (coupon)
Waiting Months for that RARE Island, knowing or imagining how your request for direct was winging it's way on a mothly supply drop by plane or boat. It is and was
almost magical to open a letter that took months in each direction.
Why the rush for a piece of computer paper you bought last week at Staples. How does that compare to a card, taken care of
that will last decades after you are gone?
We have given up so much to the I want it, I want it now, immediatly, hurry up, it's takes too much time, I can't learn That!
Groups...I really am sorry, I don't guess they will ever understand the MAGIC..
And that is sad...For me upon request you
will get the Best card I can afford, with a
few personal lines about the QSO..or just
plain hello...HOPE TO WORK YOU AGAIN O.M!
sk .-.
Posted by
KB8NJH on 2005-01-04
It Works
e-QSLs are cheaper and faster. A few minutes after a QSO they can be posted on the web and retrieved. The days of snail mail and IRCs (and green-stamp incentives) are probably history. This is as it should be when something better comes along.
BTW, I didn't see Yahoo's e-QSL groups mentioned as an alternative. :-)
Posted by
AB2KK on 2004-03-22
It Works
e-QSLs are cheaper and faster. A few minutes after a QSO they can be posted on the web and retrieved. The days of snail mail and IRCs (and green-stamp incentives) are probably history. This is as it should be when something better comes along.
BTW, I didn't see Yahoo's e-QSL groups mentioned as an alternative. :-)
Posted by
AB2KK on 2004-03-22
Camp
DAY CAMP
Posted by
KX2S on 2004-01-29
eQSL
I prefer to have a paper qsl in my hand rather than a qso in a server somewhere, but there are pluses for eQSLing, which have already been mentioned by other comments,
Any system which encourages amateurs to give comformations to fellow radio amateurs is to be commended.
If the radio amateur is interested in awards, Qsl's from eQSL.cc are not accepted by any of the major award schemes, and even within eQSL.cc.
I have a 1/3 non AG return making them useless, even for the eQSL.cc awards.
My concerned with the LoTW program is that if amateurs, contest stations and dxpeditions upload there eLogs to the LoTW website and also refuse to acknowledge requests for paper qsl's ? then the qso's will be locked into the LoTW website and how can an amateur obtain a conformation from the LoTW so that the conformation can be used for other awards outwith the ARRL awards program ?
Will the ARRL sell certified qsl cards ? The the ARRL will then have a monopoly on conformations from those amateurs etc who submit eLogs and do not acknowledge paper qsls.
I will qsl via eQSL, LoTW and via the buro for those amateurs who wish a comformation as my contribution to our hobby.73's de John
Posted by
GM4DKO on 2004-01-22
eQSL
Since receiving my ZC4 call 6 weeks ago I've logged 4500 contacts. eQsl is my prefered method of QSLing due to time constaints. Plus the cost of cards and postage adds up fast. I ordered 3000 cards the fist time and have had to order 5000 more just to keep up. I plan on sending cards to everyone who wants them, but unless there is an SASE I have to use the bureaus. I've had to limit my time on the radio just to have time to fill out and mail cards. I don't know which is more important, sending cards through the mail or giving others the chance for ZC4.
73,
Tom ZC4TS
Posted by
ZC4TS on 2004-01-21
eQSL
Since receiving my ZC4 call 6 weeks ago I've logged 4500 contacts. eQsl is my prefered method of QSLing due to time constaints. Plus the cost of cards and postage adds up fast. I ordered 3000 cards the fist time and have had to order 5000 more just to keep up. I plan on sending cards to everyone who wants them, but unless there is an SASE I have to use the bureaus. I've had to limit my time on the radio just to have time to fill out and mail cards. I don't know which is more important, sending cards through the mail or giving others the chance for ZC4.
73,
Tom ZC4TS
Posted by
ZC4TS on 2004-01-21
All modes OK
Just checked my LOTW and the oldest QSL match I have goes back to 1988. Now up to 247 matches
Posted by
KX2S on 2004-01-20
Electronic QSLs
I am signed up for both LoTW and eQSl. I am in a "rare" grid and QSLing does take considerable time and the cost is considerable when I particapate in 6m E's.
I like "Real" cards and continue to QSL 100% to those that QSL. Having 100's of cards that I don't display is kinda "silly", but I go through them every now and then and can recall "QSOs" that I had back in the 1950s. Most 6mE skip QSOs are not very memorable ... Your grid, my grid TNX ...
Hope the ARRL listens to the suggestions being made. They don't seem to be listening all that well at this point... Lets see the GRIDS on the QSL list! They also need to "get on" with the Awards.
Posted by
K0AWU on 2004-01-19
I paint, I don't use wallpaper.
Posted by
K1CJS on 2004-01-18
Re-Invent the Wheel
My biggest objection to the LOTW crap was that it was a needless waste of my money as a member (at that time) of the ARRL. Why the ARRL had to design their own system I will never understand when it would've seemed very reasonable and certainly more cost effective to simply work with the folks at eQSL to develop/modify the eQSL system to meet ARRL's higher standards...whatever that means. Paper cards were nice in their time, but having been a ham since 1965 I have enough shoe boxes full of cards that I will probably never look at again. I would hate to sit down and tally up the $$$ I spent for those cards. I can always print an eQSL if need be.
73
John
Posted by
KI4RO on 2004-01-16
LOTW
The ARRL system is somewhat strange. I download software and ended up with two icons on my desk top. Now what?
The e-QSL page is much easier to figure out and get started with.
However, I'm sure ARRL will streamline things at some point.
73s,
WO8L
Posted by
WO8L on 2004-01-16
AG on eQSL
I really don't understand the need for "Authenticity Guaranteed" on eQSL. Paper cards seem to be acceptable for most awards without any such guarantee. Why require it for electronic QSLs?
Posted by
N4UM on 2004-01-15
e-qsl
Ive had to sign up to recieve these so called cards. Even if you have a high quality laser colour printer I think these cards would still turn out to be poor looking. I like to go to my mailbox and see whats inside as far as cards or a really great buro envelope full of nice rare or not so rare dx. Nothing like the feel and the look of a qsl card either from the states or dx with someones handwrting on it. Even some of the paper from certain countries feel different. All of these things make up the qsl'ng experience. Theres nothing wrong with utilizing technology to enhance amateur radio but when it starts to detract from the experience, thats when I think that technology will be destined to fail. E-qsl equals boring and poor quality these things will continue long after the thrill of recieving that instant qsl is over with. My two cents. Thanks! Vaughn-N1XV ex AB7UW
Posted by
AB7UW-MONTANA on 2004-01-14
I agree with AB7UW
Hi everyone!
My name is Mike, KC2LYQ, and i am 12 years old. I definitely agree with AB7UW. It definitely takes away from the experience of getting home from work/school and going to your mailbox to see if you got any new QSL's. It is also very cool to have the persons handwriting on the card. The quality of the E-QSL's are also not as good as good old QSL cards!
73s! Mike
Posted by
KC2LYQ on 2004-01-14
eQSL
The biggest problem with eQSL is the fact that you do not have to be "authenticated" (AG, as they call it) to use the service. I would say that more than half of the eQSL's I've received are from non-AG users. If all of the confirmations were from authenticated users I'd have WAS now and have just a handful of countries needed to confirm DXCC!
Posted by
W7PW on 2004-01-12
Those eqsl's suck. It's just another way for us lazy cheap hams not to make our own qsl's or have someone else print them. The quality of eqsl's is horrible.
Posted by
AC7KZ on 2004-01-10
Eqsl NO !
I tried it, didn't like it. Much prefer getting mine in the mail or via Buro.
What I don't like is people send them to you anyway, and you get emails saying to go get your Eqsl cards. So what you have to do is sign-up for Eqsl, and then quit the service. The next time someone tries to send you a card, it will give them a message that you prefer it the other way. This should be the default for anyone who has not signed up.
Posted by
K4KAL on 2004-01-10
eQSL.cc
great stuff...saved me tonnes of $$$$ and anyrate who whats to qsl via the Bruo ! and wait for a Qslcard for 5 mnoths to arrrive !
TOP MARKS EQSL.CC KEEP YOUR ACT GOING !
73` Roly VK3KXW /irlp 6330 / echolink/ eqso
Posted by
VK3KXW on 2004-01-09
wallpaper prefered
I work that DX so I can get that personal touch for a qsl processed. There is a DXpedition about to happen listed in Jan. QST and they will be doing LoTW, no paper. They may not get a whole lot of support. My club gives to the Northern California DX foundation which is THE major DXpedition sponser. If I ever get wind they support a cardless expedition, I'll stop any further contributions. I want the card. My old buddies got their cards. It's neat that way. I'm also against those who say, "I'll qsl u if you send a SASE". They got two ft1000MP's pictured on thier card but don't have enough change for a stamp. I agree with that fellow, "you send me yours, I'll send you mine". If your to cheap to send a card, just don't send it. I'll keep chasing. Now a rare DX card I want from a fellow who doesn't have much but a humble radio, I can understand sending a green stamp and support that whole heartedly. That's different. But this electronic trend is taking all the fun out of the chase. Don't you think? I love checking the mail everyday to see what card got sent. It don't have to be fancy. It's just considerate. That's the way I feel about it. Just to be fair, I will probably give LoTW a try. But I have me doubts. I just realized something. Getting that qsl in the mail is why I'm still here. Without that, I probably would lose interest. I am about to spend buco dollars on a new HF rig too. Maybe I should wait to see how this trend is going to end up. Looks like better the 50% are thinking like me. Think about that before the minority of you flame me for me views.
Posted by
N5VWN on 2004-01-09
Like the paper
Nothing like a real piece of wood that is colorful. I also went back to using a paper log, but I really don't care to collect "awards". The only thing I miss about the computer log is being able to quickly search.
Posted by
KE6YOC on 2004-01-09
Why not both LOTW & eQSL?
As the old saying goes, "It's not over 'til its over!"
Chosing between LOTW and eQSL is not a choice. I use both because each has distinct features and because different operators use each. I want to be there for every QSL, whether its via LOTW, eQSL, or paper.
Like most computer applications, it's not a question of which is better. I'm keeping a hand in both because electronic QSLing is far from a settled issue. LOTW and eQSL will propably co-exist for years to come.
I put a vote in for each.
Best 73s
Posted by
KA6SGT on 2004-01-09
QSL's
I too, like the paper version better. Many are outright works of art. To me, EQSL's are useless. I do keep track of the number of countries I contact. It is fun and it is useful when I try to describe Amateur Radio to somebody who doesn't know anything about it. However, I could not care less about receiving validated credit for a country. I know that I contacted somebody from that country and that is all that matters to me. If I want a certificate that shows that, then I will print up my own. I have to laugh at the idea that my contacts do not count unless the ARRL says they do.
Howard
N3TNQ
Posted by
N3TNQ on 2004-01-08
I do both........
I have been using eQSL for a couple of years. It is great for me since I have thousands of QSL cards in boxes already. If someone wants a paper QSL I DO respond 100% to all requests even if they DO NOT send me a card. I do NOT ask for a SASE if they want a card unless they are out of the US. If they are not in a hurry, I use the bureaus to ship bunches of cards at once. I print out the cards on eQSL if I want them on paper. It is faster, saves postage and I can print them on quality paper if I want. So what is the drawback of eQSL? I don't see any. Why did ARRL feel they had to duplicate eQSL instead of using them? NIH? Happy QSLing.
73
Frank
KL7IPV
Posted by
KL7IPV on 2004-01-07
E QSLING - BORING!
I view LOTW as a lothsome rip-off of EQSL. And yes, I'm an ARRL member!
Having said that, I'm NOT interested in E QSLing. I want THE CARD from THE HAM. NOT because I care whether the ARRL thinks my card is good, BECAUSE I DON'T CARE WHAT THE ARRL THINKS. I've got the envelope!
I just think its cool to have THE card FROM THE HAM.
Posted by
W9WHE on 2004-01-07
e qsling
I'd rather get the actual card from the hams I contact. I keep them close. I will not use any service of the ARRL (life member) when it comes to QSL's after they lost 271 of my QSL's in June of 1993.
Posted by
WI2Q on 2004-01-07
Awards??
If LoTW would let me print out a 3.5"x4.5" piece of paper with the name of the country in large print at the top, and QSO details at the bottom, it would be close to perfect. Come to think of it, I guess I could produce my own LoTW QSL's.
eQSL is great if the user spends a bit of time designing her/his QSL. (It's fun.) You can see my basic card at www.qsl.net/k8wv.
Fake QSL's, whether cards or eQSL's are easy these days, but I really doubt there's a gang of QSL terrorists bootlegging cards. If they are, so what? Cards of any type are simply a fun curiosity. Awards mean little to others than the holder.
Worked 5xDXCC with dipoles and 100 watts? You don't need a certificate, or cards, and you know it!
Posted by
K8WV on 2004-01-06
Paper!
I am active in several WAS/DX Nets and am a frequent NCS for the 3905 Century Club Late Nets (www.3905ccn.com). Paper QSL cards do take considerable time to print, send and file. Most nets, at least at present, require paper cards for awards.
All said, I enjoy the traditional QSL card. Especially the creative ones. It's part of the tradition, and one I enjoy.
I print custom cards on my Macintosh and use the Century Club QSL buros (WM9H &KB5IPQ) and other nets buros as well. Saves money and helps the "paper flow."
joel / N5LXI
Posted by
N5LXI on 2004-01-06
R.O.N. Reality Or Nothing!
Give me a Real Card any day. There's nothing like going through one of many file boxes looking at the variety of Real Cards.
Yeah I know, you can print out the eQSL's yourself, but what's the thrill in that? Knowing that these Real Cards were actually mailed by someone, somewhere far away, is what makes it so much fun.
And, I really appreciate the expense some of these other hams go to in getting their cards professionally printed. Nice glossy cards with some nice logos or photos. I wish I had some nice cards like them to give out. Maybe I will, when I can be certain that my address will be fixed long enough to make it worth an order of 1000 cards or more.
Posted by
AD7DB on 2004-01-06
eQSL
It really bothers me that eQSL has mastered this eQSL stuff and doesn't charge, the ARRL which stole the idea is charging for doing the thing that they stole. They have done everything they could to sink eQSL. If I am going to pay I will use a post card. But never the ARRL service. SHAME on the money grabbing American Radio Relay League. I will continue with eQSL and feel ashamed that the group that should represent us is just grabbing as much money as they can from the retired poor operators.
Posted by
K6TPL on 2004-01-06
ARRL Lotw
Once again I must come to the defense of the ARRL. Those who grouse about them "ripping off" eQSL don't know what they are talking about. Lotw works completely differently from eQSL-- both have their place. ARRL has issued DXCC awards since before WW2 and has a long history of high standards to uphold. Their Lotw system was designed to maintain those high standards for confirming QSO's for their awards program. ARRL had every right (and reason) for developing their own system.
Posted by
NI0C on 2004-01-06
Prefer Hard Copy QSL's.
I tried eQSL.cc for a while, and must admit the 'convenience factor' of being able to send and receive confirmations at the 'speed of electrons' is great, BUT I much prefer holding a traditional hard copy QSL in my hands. Even though you can of course print out eQSL's, I feel the quality and variety of traditionally printed and hand signed QSL's blows away eQSL's at this point in time. Inkjet printed eQSL's (most people use inkjet printers) just don't cut it for me. Of course, this shortcoming could and probably will change over time. Perhaps one day, color laser printers will be more affordable for the masses, and we will be able to print out higher quality, more permanent smudge-free eQSL's that more closely approximate traditional hard copy QSL's in variety and quality.
Posted by
W8KQE on 2004-01-06
K6TPL
You need to get a life and stop attacking the ARRL. You have no clue as to what you are talking about. LOTW costs NOTHING!
----Bet you are still waiting for your next copy of 73 Magazine---
Posted by
KX2S on 2004-01-06
LoTW
>>KB5DPE said earlier<<
"I do wish that people would go back to the "I'll buy my stamp - you buy yours" type of QSL'ing. That way, no one carries an excessive burden. Even DXpeditions, that spend great amounts of money on transportation and equipment should be willing to spend a little bit returning the QSL cards they sought."
Sadly that's neither realistic nor feasable. Imagine an operation like K1B or the upcoming 3B9C doing this. Or Campbell Island. Or Bhutan or Clipperton. Conservatively for some of these operations that's about 40,000 QSLs going out. Let's say 1/2 are from the US and 1/2 outside the country, assuming a US manager. That's 20,000 x 37 cents (today) for the US and 20,000 x 80 cents for just about everyone else (OK a few Canadian and Mexican hams at 60 cents, but I'll ignore you for now
). That's $7,400 in postage to the US and $16,000 to the rest of the world -- a total of $23,400 in postage alone, let alone the price of getting 40,000 cards printed!!
And at the other end of the spectrum, if you think after an expensive vacation/DX-pedition that I'll spend another $1500 in postage from a week's stay in the Caribbean, you're out of your gourd.
Posted by W2IRT on 2004-01-06Do It All
I eQSL, LoTW, AND send paper QSL's. The only one's that really cost me anything are the paper QSL's, and I don't mind.
Now, what REALLY bugs me are those that DEMAND a SASE or they won't give up their precious QSL card. I don't mind SASE, but I DO mind stateside hams showing such a selfish attitude.
If we all demanded SASE's, nobody would QSL.
Posted by
KO1C on 2004-01-05
Electronic QSLing
Certainly holding a bit of history in your hands is wonderful but I've been going through boxes of QSL's collected by K5RC over the past 40 (or so) years and it's more than wonderful, it's unbelievable! Tom has 364 countries confirmed (as of 4/2003) and holding these pieces of history is enough to make one appreciate the value of QSLs! I do use both LoTW and eQSL but I would much rather have the cardboard in front of me and on the wall of the shack.
Posted by
W7PW on 2004-01-05
QSL
I use EQSL. only problem is ARRL will not accept EQSL. I also use LOTW and 180 confirmed contacts via LOTW. I sill prefer paper QSL's. Could be that I am just an old fart but I enjoy looking at my QSL cards.
You really needed more choices like.
1 LOTW EQSL
2 LOTW EQSL PAPER QSL
I clicked on LOTW but would have preferred more choices.
73 Ed
Posted by
KX2S on 2004-01-05
QSL
I use EQSL. only problem is ARRL will not accept EQSL. I also use LOTW and 180 confirmed contacts via LOTW. I sill prefer paper QSL's. Could be that I am just an old fart but I enjoy looking at my QSL cards.
You really needed more choices like.
1 LOTW EQSL
2 LOTW EQSL PAPER QSL
I clicked on LOTW but would have preferred more choices.
73 Ed
Posted by
KX2S on 2004-01-05
Long Live Paper!
Many years ago as a teenager I was an SWL and I always got a thrill when there'd be a new card in the mail. Today as a ham I relive that experience whenever a new card arrives. Back then I proudly displayed my SWL cards at my listening post and today I proudly display my ham cards in the shack.
I prefer paper because I like to write a personal note of thanks on the backside whenever I send out a QSL. You can't do that on eQSL.
I must admit, I'm more than just a little disappointed at the hams that won't reply when I've sent them a SASE. Of a batch of QSLs sent last fall with a SASE, I'd say that I didn't even receive a 50% reply.
Finally, I'm not looking for awards and feel that LOtW is superfluous as we already had eQSL. I will eventually get around to setting it up and my policy will probably be the same as for eQSL. I will respond to any incoming QSLs but will prefer to send out paper.
If and when I amass enough cards to qualify for an ARRL award, I'll be happy to mail the cards to CT. Long live paper!
73 de KB1IAR,
James
Posted by
KB1IAR on 2004-01-05
I use NQSL...
Which means "no QSL." :)
Actually, I QSL 100% for all cards received, but QSL 0.00% if I don't receive a card first. I always reply QSL via the same means as the one received, and as such still use the bureau for most QSLing, since that's how most of them come in.
I don't like eQSL at all, not for any political reason but just because I don't feel like "printing" cards...uses too much ink or toner, and is actually more expensive than buying cards. So, if I get cards that way, I just look at them on the screen and then dump them -- don't bother to print any.
WB2WIK/6
Posted by
WB2WIK on 2004-01-05
OSL
I've been licensed for 25+ yrs, was an active SWL as a kid and to this day love collecting the cards. Yes I do use e-qsl, not lotw yet and do qsl 100%. For K9KJM who states it is to expensive to qsl duplicate countries outside of the US, I say it is only $1.00 to use ARRL bureau if you have less than ten and are a member!! How cheap can that be. My two bits worth, more than two cents.
Posted by
N5AMZ on 2004-01-05
No QSL's ??
I quess I just dont understand the folks that will NOT confirm a contact. It is such a small thing to return a note in a SASE. For the new ham it is an exciting thing to have that paper saying they talked to a far away place. To us older hams it is nice to look at where we have been and where we want to go.
All I can say to all you NON-QSL'ing folks is you sure make the hobby a bunch less fun with your crappy, bitchy, low rent attitude.
As for eQSL or LOTW...both work and are great ideas. But they will never replace the paper QSL unless they make it so you can print a real QSL from the station you contacted
Hey Pat!! If this is an outdated hobby why are you still here??
Dan/N0FPE
Posted by
N0FPE on 2004-01-04
eQSL vs QSL
I don't consider eQSL to be as good as QSL Cards, mainly because anyone can send an e-mail and print it out. I ran into a stack of QSL Cards from my father's old station. K1GTC, back in the 1950's, and it was impressive to see the different styles sent back then. Holding those cards in hand was holding history, touching several hands to get from point a to point b, versus E-mail from terminal a to terminal b. BTW I actually know and have worked some of the stations he worked 40+ years ago.
Posted by
N1RWC on 2004-01-04
eQSL vs QSL
I don't consider eQSL to be as good as QSL Cards, mainly because anyone can send an e-mail and print it out. I ran into a stack of QSL Cards from my father's old station. K1GTC, back in the 1950's, and it was impressive to see the different styles sent back then. Holding those cards in hand was holding history, touching several hands to get from point a to point b, versus E-mail from terminal a to terminal b. BTW I actually know and have worked some of the stations he worked 40+ years ago.
Posted by
N1RWC on 2004-01-04
QSL's & Awards
Only the wealthy can nowadays keep up with a fairly active ham to get all "paper QSL cards" I too like the "real thing" paper cards from far off countries, But the cost to simply verify a contact to a country you already have on some other band is getting too high for the average ham. I really hope that LoTW will solve this problem. It looks like it should be able to.
I used to be in the eQSL program, Got out when they went crazy trying to make it look like they were only confirming "real" calls.. (Time of QSL off by a few seconds would cause it to be kicked back) But not hard for someone who wanted to cheat on anyhow.
I really hope ARRL can pull this one off and make LoTW work the way it is supposed to.
Posted by
K9KJM on 2004-01-03
eQSL and Hard copy
I a new General class HAM, not interested in contest, but like the idea of the awards. I eQSL 100% and send hard copy QSL's 100%. I have not tied LoTW. I have heard to many complaints on the complexity of it. I wish, that out of courtesy, all HAMS would respond to any QSL in whatever manner they recieve one. I do not feel obligated to respond to the LoTW in the same manner since I QSL 100% and that is just as acceptable for the awards.
Posted by
KF4YGW on 2004-01-03
Awards ??
All the fuss about needing QSL cards or equivilent for awards services only the need for authority of the issuing organization. Who would cheat to get an award? That would give satisfaction only to a damaged mind. We need to face the fact that others are never impressed by our awards. They are of value only to the one who earned them. If some poor soul can get value from receiving an award not earned, let him have it. All the waste of time put into confimation is a poor use of valuable resources.
eQsl works fine, even if only for simplification of our own records and giving some kind of response to those who enjoy such things.
Posted by
K8NQC on 2004-01-03
e-QSL's
I use both eQSL and LOTW, but don't "like" either one! I really enjoy getting a traditional QSL card in the mail. I recently did a study of my records and found that 25-30% of my recent QSL requests have gone unanswered. What makes this especially shameful is the fact that I included an sase with all of these requests! Since I am offering to pay the postage, and since a hand-written QSL is just as valid as a "fancy" printed one, cost cannot be a factor in this. So does this mean that 30% of us are just plain rude?!?!
Posted by
N8XMS on 2004-01-03
All of the above.
I think each of them has it's purpose and it is simple to do them all.
Posted by
NF6D on 2004-01-03
Even if they're not important to you...
... they might be important to the other ham. I'm disappointed to see that some might take a QSL with a PSE QSL and toss it in the garbage. That notion goes against "The Amateur's Code" IMHO.
"The Radio Amateur is
CONSIDERATE...never knowingly operates in such a way as to lessen the pleasure of others.
o o o
FRIENDLY... kindly assistance, cooperation and consideration for the interests of others. These are the hallmarks of the amateur spirit."
Intentionally depriving another operator of confirmation of a QSO you know they need will "lessen the pleasure of others" (in this case the other ham). This attitude of "sure kid, you've worked your 50th state... but I'll be damned if I'll help you confirm it" is, well, appalling!
Forget about elmering, volunteer work, public service, community involvement, or civic duty. If a given ham can't fill out a post card and stick it in a SASE, I'm not sure if they're up to anything listed above.
For the record, I do eQSL, LoTW, and send cards with SASE to those I really need. I respond to QSL requests from hams and SWLs immediately. Its all part of the hobby (again, IMHO).
My 2-cents. Compliments to this list. Flames to
/dev/null, please.
-- Scott (NE1RD)
Posted by
NE1RD on 2004-01-03
QSL's
"Wallpaper" is old, "traditional", and kind of
makes a "shack" look like one. Electronic methods are "modern" they work -more or less-
and serve a different, but similar purpose. It shouldn't be an either-or situation, IMHO.
All three can co-exist. There will probably
never be complete unanimity on the "best"
method. So What? Let's realize that if there was only vanilla ice cream, much less might get sold. Not everybody prefers it.
I'll use any, all, or no method, depending
on circumstances.
Hope everyone has a great 2004
"Stoney"
KI4DMS (formerly K2LIF)
Posted by
KI4DMS on 2004-01-03
Apples and Oranges
As I understand it, eQSL is an electronic QSL service, whereas LoTW is a system to verify QSOs for awards credit -- no QSLs, electronic or otherwise, involved.
Posted by
K1RFD on 2004-01-02
Hard Copy QSL Forever
I use eQSL but only as a courtesy to those who do and becasue of the convenience. I have never printed an eQSL to add to my collection.
The thrill of getting a QSL in the real US postal service mailbox is just not matched by email notification.
I have LoTW but have not used it owing to the ease of eQSL and, again, its just not exciting. I do use computer control and logging and have a fairly modern station and don't consider myself ancient.
Posted by
WO8USA on 2004-01-02
Like kissing your sister
Let's not take out any more of the romance of ham radio. Getting those cards from all over the world is half the fun.
Posted by
K4IA on 2004-01-02
QSL's
I strongly support EQSL and use Lotw, but still desire the hard card. I QSL 100%, direct or through the bureau. No SASE is necessary.
Posted by
WA6BOB on 2004-01-02
QSL
I don't apply for ARRL awards. eQSL works for me.
Posted by
NA6M on 2004-01-02
EQSL
I do both EQSL and hard copy. All my logs go to EQSL and I print every one. I agree they are not as good as the hard copy you receive in the mail but better than nothing. I will send anyone a card who sends one to me and for as the "special ones" I send a self addressed stamp envelope and add a $1.00 for the DX. Like i said I like the the hard copy the best but I like the price of EQSL. AS for as LOTW I am not into awards so it doesn't do a thing for me. When they are set up for cards of some type I will use it.
Posted by
WB4QNG on 2004-01-02
QSL
I also agree with AD7BG. Every kind of confirmation advailable should be alowed for awards. Since they are all for self satisfaction why not. I know of no real advantage of having the awards on the walls. Before computers it was a little different but now in about 5 minutes I can print a very offical looking award for anything. Then again if I wanted I could print up very official looking cards for every country in the world and who would know except me. I never thought about it before but maby the electronic means are more secure than the paper ones
Posted by
WB4QNG on 2004-01-02
Badly Formed Questions!
Needs an option for both eQSL and LOTW. Of course, the ARRL with it's LOTW has nothing but disdain for eQSLs and won't accept them for awards so maybe this wouldn't work. But then again, with the dearth of LOTW users?
Maybe they both are a poorly implementation of a flawed concept?
Dennis
Posted by
KG4RUL on 2004-01-02
LOTW or Paper
I like good ol' fashioned paper QSLs. But for awards, LOTW is for me. More secure than eQSL and the awards from the ARRL are "real" if I can use that term. eQSL is just not secure. If you get a QSO record from another station, eQSL asks you if you will accept it. Now if this was from say North Korea, how many hams would be tempted to accept it for an award? The ARRL system is more secure in that it matches records so you can't get an undeserved QSL. I guess eQSL is o.k. for being able to get a printed QSL whereas LOTW does not do that, but the quality of the card is nowhere close to a professionally printed QSL. If you want eQSL to print and mail them, it is just as expensive as doing it yourself. So in my opinion, electronic QSLing is to support awards only and for that reason alone, LOTW is the best.
Posted by
W8JAS on 2004-01-02
QSL???
Who really sends QSL cards anymore? And for what purpose? If I make a DX contact, I enter it in my logbook; you know, the paper kind that you have to physically write in. I know I made the contact, I don't need any proof of that. I'm not trying to win any boring contests, so I see no reason to waste the paper or postage on a QSL card.
Happy without CW
KD7EZE
Posted by
KD7EZE on 2004-01-02
QSL???
Who really sends QSL cards anymore? And for what purpose? If I make a DX contact, I enter it in my logbook; you know, the paper kind that you have to physically write in. I know I made the contact, I don't need any proof of that. I'm not trying to win any boring contests, so I see no reason to waste the paper or postage on a QSL card.
Happy without CW
KD7EZE
Posted by
KD7EZE on 2004-01-02
No QSL HR, OM
QSL'ing: Another outdated aspect of this outdated hobby.
I don't "e"-QSL, I don't mail paper QSL's, I don't keep a log.
When I do receive a QSL card in the mail, it gets read and then tossed in the garbage.
I make no apologies.
Pat WB9GKZ
Posted by
WPE9JRL on 2004-01-02
Wallpaper?
Wallpaper will never lose its mystique in a ham shack. For award hunting or expediency, though, electronic QSL is OK - but I still like the wall full of cards.
Posted by
K4IQT on 2004-01-02
contacts? awards?
It is amazing that time and effort would be expended to develop an electronic means to "verify" "contacts" for an "award". Are not many of these so called "contacts" of the "what was the callsign, again?, send slower, again?, oh you're 599 in Anywhere, Someplace. QRZ..." variety? Are these the contacts that some people are trying to confirm?...for an "award"?
At least with a paper QSL card, the operator might make mention of some interesting detail of home, station, QSO, etc. Such is not possible currently with LOTW. That system is solely to "qualify" for a piece of paper. Then again, it's an award; A MAJOR AWARD!
At the end of the day, only you know what is truly represented by your amateur radio log and activities. For those that enjoy such things, have at it. Just don't expect to see my log on the cumbersome LOTW.
73,
MY_OPINION
Posted by
MY_OPINION on 2004-01-02
Only Paper
I am a Luddite, I use paper, both for QSLing, and keeping a log. Considering all the DX I have worked and QSLed; my QSL costs per month are less than a couple of 6 paks of beer. Hay, that's the cost of doing business if you are in the DX and QSL game. LoTW and eQSL is ok for those who are computer junkies, who want instant QSLing, and too cheap to use the postal service
Posted by
W4MGY on 2004-01-02
ARRL LOTW difficult
I think the ARRL is typical in their refusal to accept eQSL reports. Big frog in the little puddle.
If they want to have the world beat a path to the doorway of LOTW, then make the system work easily.
Similar to their QST collections on CD. The software that comes with those is lousy also.
As a side comment about cheating potential using the Internet for QSLing - well, you're going to have a certain class of cheats no matter what you do. Live with it - they have to, and we mostly know who they are anyway.
Posted by
W2BLC on 2004-01-02
Shack Beauty
I have only been licensed for under 20 years, but I love having cards on my walls. I wont knock the new medium for QSLing, however I love the wallpaper! Now if I could only convice my wife....DE KJ7XJ
Posted by
KJ7XJ on 2004-01-02
I have been looking at LOTW. It looks like something great, but then it looks like a lot of extra time and expense, too.
I believe its purpose was to allow use of contacts for ARRL awards, but then they charge $.20 - $.25 each contact you use for the award. I don't know how it will work in a contest, but if you collect paper cards, its better not to use LOTW.
I make DX contacts when possible, but I don't chase them like many of my friends. From what I hear from all of them, the LOTW can save them time and money if the DX station uses it. Otherwise it may take 2 years to get a QSL card for a given country.
I like having the ability to print my eQSL.com cards. I can copy the cards images to a CD-ROM and print them up at WallMart for only $.24 each. I would like it more if they were accepted for more awards, but when I print them, its for show anyway.
What I would like to see is a good e-logbook on the internet for county hunters. Of course, having run mobile counties, I can easily see how the mobiles would rather keep status quo! It is a lot of work keeping up with the hundreds of contacts every day and for truckers who get home once a month to re-enter all the contacts on a computer could easily consume more time than they have between runs.
When I first found eQSL.com, I thought EVERYONE should use it, but now after 6 months, I have come to the conclusion that eQSL.com and LOTW are both useful tools for some of us and far too much trouble for others. They both have advantages but they are only a small part of Amateur Radio.
If everyone used LOTW, we could hang certificates all over the walls but wouldn't have any cards to show off.
If everyone used eQSL.com, we could have a different set of certificates to hang up and we could print the cards we wanted to display.
But for me, I love those days when I open my mailbox to find QSL cards enclosed. It is interesting to see some of the more creative approaches such as one hand-written on a piece of paper, a computer printed card that was a "certificate of communications" with one ham, or local postcards or photos with the qsl info written on the front or back.
eQSLs are nice, but they just don't hold that personal touch of a mailed QSL.
Me, I'll use them all.
May you all find this year to be a most prosporous year for your hamming ventures!
Buck
Posted by
BUCK on 2004-01-02
Long Live the Card
No issue with eQSL or LOTW but my preference is the QSL card...
Will Dxpeditions move away from sending them? Lots of QSOs means lots of work but I hope not. To do my part to encourage them, I'll be sending some some extra $$$ to the teams that send real paper. No real card, no dollars.
73, Al N4ZZK
Posted by
N4ZZK on 2004-01-02
Long Live the Card
No issue with eQSL or LOTW but my preference is the QSL card...
Will Dxpeditions move away from sending them? Lots of QSOs means lots of work but I hope not. To do my part to encourage them, I'll be sending some some extra $$$ to the teams that send real paper. No real card, no dollars.
73, Al N4ZZK
Posted by
N4ZZK on 2004-01-02
QSLing
Despite the economic aspects, I still prefer the good old hard cards.
Posted by
W6HB on 2004-01-01
Camp???
Using both LoTW and eQSL - not interested in any awards. My input is just for the needs of the contacted stations...
So I think your survey also should include an option like "No Camp"....
Posted by
PA3BFH on 2004-01-01
Hardcopy, please
I have no intention of using LotW or eQSL.
Call me a Luddite, but I prefer hardcopy.
Posted by
PH1PH on 2004-01-01
As a semi-serious DXer and DXCCer, LOTW is great in that confirmations are now a piece of cake.
Yes, it is nicer to look at the paper cards, but it is nice to get the confirmation electronically for awards purposes.
Posted by
K1XV on 2004-01-01
Camped Out
I used eQSL since shortly after it started - then I began to have "cookie", uploading, and other issues with their system - I recently gave up. LOTW has none of those issues, and works well...so I've cancelled my eQSL account and switched to LOTW. I agree there seems to be a lot of emphasis on "authenticity" in what really only counts for personal satisfaction. Cheaters will always find a way in every facet of life - ham radio isn't excluded. Give me the old fashioned "hang it on a wall" QSL card. That's my camp.
73 and Happy New Year
Joe
WD0M
(ex-WL7M)
Posted by
WD0M on 2004-01-01
e-QSL??
I enjoy looking at my collection of "real" QSL cards accumulated over the years. E-QSL may be good for contesting, but will it really be the same?
Posted by
WA2DTW on 2004-01-01
eQSLs
Would rather have a real QSL to hang on wall than an electronic one. The idea of having to print out each and every QSL over at eQSL doesn't thrill me. In fact, I assume that any money saved would be spent in buying color printer cartridges. Many will probably save on their postage bills, but to me the whole eQSL thing is just one more step in the dumbing down of ham radio.
Posted by
N9AVY on 2004-01-01
E-QSL
I use both LOTW and E-QSL, But I still send Out paper QSL cards 95% of the time the paper QSL card is sent with a SASE or a Green Stamp. I love opening the Mail box and finding the paper Qsl cards mixed with the bills. I makes the every trip to the post box interesting. It is also nice to get an E-mail from E-QSL telling you that you have new cards to pick up.
73 brock
Posted by
KG6GMT on 2004-01-01
Neither is perfect
I use both eQSL & LOTW. eQSL's images are usually poor and often use the same photos. Printing them is hardly worthwhile (tho much cheaper than printing & mailing hard cards). I wish they would add features to facilitate exchange of hard cards. At its best, eQSL is a sort of private ham email exchange & database, with a reasonable award program added on. My log program enters each QSO in eQSL instantly, and often I get an eQSL confirmation in a few minutes!
LOTW uses a complicated (but secure) authentication method, but offers nothing to facilitate ham-to-ham personal exchanges, hardcards or just notes. It's all for non-interactive contest scoring & awards, just an impersonal database, but well executed.
Both systems have merits, but neither is a full answer for me. I still do a lot of hard card exchanging with addresses from QRZ.com, etc.
Posted by
AA6E on 2004-01-01
Neither is perfect
I use both eQSL & LOTW. eQSL's images are usually poor and often use the same photos. Printing them is hardly worthwhile (tho much cheaper than printing & mailing hard cards). I wish they would add features to facilitate exchange of hard cards. At its best, eQSL is a sort of private ham email exchange & database, with a reasonable award program added on. My log program enters each QSO in eQSL instantly, and often I get an eQSL confirmation in a few minutes!
LOTW uses a complicated (but secure) authentication method, but offers nothing to facilitate ham-to-ham personal exchanges, hardcards or just notes. It's all for non-interactive contest scoring & awards, just an impersonal database, but well executed.
Both systems have merits, but neither is a full answer for me. I still do a lot of hard card exchanging with addresses from QRZ.com, etc.
Posted by
AA6E on 2004-01-01
e-qsl's
I guess I'm just not a "competative" type of person. I enjoy DX because I get an opportunity to meet and get to know new people all over the world. I want time to get to learn a little about their world and their life. Therefore contests and awards mean nothing to me. I will respond to the "slam/bam/move on" type of contact to give someone a couple of points, but that is not what I enjoy doing.
As a consequence, neither eqsl nor LofTW meet my needs. One of the most rewarding side results of a OSO is receiving the PAPER QSL card in the mail (as mentioned by an earlier poster).
I do wish that people would go back to the "I'll buy my stamp - you buy yours" type of QSL'ing. That way, no one carries an excessive burden. Even DXpeditions, that spend great amounts of money on transportation and equipment should be willing to spend a little bit returning the QSL cards they sought.
73 Tom KB5DPE
Posted by
KB5DPE on 2004-01-01
eQSL
I prefer the personal touch associated with the hard cards. However, if the eQSL is primarily a "chit" to keep score, I can understand why some some Hams use them.
Posted by
KK7WN on 2004-01-01
None of the above.
I use eQSL and LOTW so I did not select any answer.
Posted by
OLDFART13 on 2003-12-31
QSL
Use LOTW for DXCC credit, and eQSL for casual QSOs. I am not in a "camp" for either.
Posted by
W4YA on 2003-12-31
QSLing
I think that both LOTW and eQSL should be allowed for all awards. I believe that too much emphasis has been put on "verifying the authenticity". No award has any value other than personal accomplishment. If someone wants to cheat they will find a way no matter what.
Posted by
AD7BG on 2003-12-31
E-QSLs
I don't, won't, never will! You too cheap to buy a stamp?
Posted by
KG4OOA on 2003-12-31
E-QSLs
I don't, won't, never will! You too cheap to buy a stamp?
Posted by
KG4OOA on 2003-12-31