I'm curious what software people are using for digital modes. I'm currently playing with WSJT-X, and I'm looking at all the FT-8 traffic. I'm wondering about how people who are active on a mode like FT8, how you log all your contacts?
Further, what does a QSO card look like for these digital contacts? Do you use a eQSO service, or do you do something else?
Thanks,
Ed L.
I think everyone does it a bit different, depending on what they consider their 'logbook of authority'.
I picked LoTW to be my official logbook, so after a WSJT-X session, I upload the ADIF file it automatically generates to LotW and then delete it. Any time I happen to be in QRZ, I also do an import to it from LotW to bring it in sync. I've also got HRD now and while the the UI is light-years better than N1MM (which I absolutely cannot stand), it's chock full of bugs, especially in ADIF exporting. I'm hoping they'll devote some attention to bugfixes soon to make it more LoTW friendly.
I have gotten a couple of physical QSO cards for FT8 contacts. Never initiated any but I did reciprocate the ones received. I would try to be prompt in getting FT8 contacts uploaded to LoTW, QRZ, eQSL etc, as so many people are chasing grids, WAS, etc on digital these days.
AB0L (Formerly N0KAI)
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Kenwood TM-V71A, Kenwood TS-590S, Icom ID-4100A, Yaseu FT-891, TYT MD-UV380, TYT MD-380, Kenwood TH-D7A, BTECH UV-5X3, µBITX V5, µBITX V4, QRPGuys 40/30/20m DSB Digital Transceiver
Ed - great question!
In my shack, I use DXLAB Suite for a combination of rig control and logging. WSJT-X is bridged to the DXLAB logbook through the config files and all of my FT-8 contacts not only show up in the DXLAB logbook. From there, a couple mouse clicks and my most recent QSOs are uploaded to LOTW and my DXLAB logbook synchronizes with any new LOTW confirmations.
FINALLY!!
Those post cards and certificates are more trouble than getting your account closed at a robocaller.
I have uploaded my first set of QSLs to LOTW. (Us SQL developers must hate that abbreviation.)
Thanks guys! 73
Ed L.
