MeshSense - Free Meshtastic Network Monitoring Software is Now Available!
Hi All,
Chris, Kimberly and I are excited to let you know that MeshSense, our Meshtastic network monitoring software is now available!
First, the Backstory...
If you aren't familiar with Meshtastic (just a few months ago I wasn't either), Perplexity defines Meshtastic as "an open-source, off-grid communication platform that uses low-power radio frequencies to enable long-range communication without the need for existing infrastructure like cell towers or internet".
Think of Meshtastic as a way to send text messages, just as you text on your cell phone, Discord chat room or Messenger chat group, without the need for Internet or a service provider of any kind. Meshtastic is primarily text-based. Messages are optionally encrypted during transmission and display as text on your cell phone or tablet, using a free app (Android and iPhone), much like your cell phone, Discord or Messenger.
Designed as a low power system, optionally using solar panels and batteries, our Meshtastic network ideally will stay live, even when the grid and / or Internet are out, so it is an excellent additional tool for emergency communication. Like our other Amateur Radio communications, in addition to the fun of daily use, Meshtastic can be used to message your friends and family members who are also on the network anytime, even when conventional services are offline due to wind, hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, ice storms, solar flares, who knows what!
A few months ago, my son Brad, KB3MNE, along with a few (mostly younger) club members started mentioning Meshtastic. Once we saw the fun challenge of being able to connect our individual home stations (referred to as nodes), opportunity to experiment with antennas and learn about the 915 MHz band (which is a new band to many in our club), enthusiasm ensued! In fact, it turns out that anyone can participate and run up to one watt without a license. Since Meshtastic transceivers are plug and play, starting as low as $25, our Meshtastic project has turned into an additional Amateur Radio outreach, as some area folks who are not yet hams are jumping in with us!
Want to learn more? We have lots more information including source links, range expectations and answers to many frequently asked questions on our NEMARC Club's Meshtastic page here:
Our MeshSense Software is Now Available!
As we began evaluating the signal strength and coverage area of our local cluster, we realized we needed a tool to monitor the real time health of our network, which has lead to our creation and development of MeshSense! MeshSense is a simple, free application that monitors, maps and graphically displays all the vital stats of your area's Meshtastic network including connected nodes, signal reports, trace routes and more! MeshSense directly connects to your Meshtastic node via Bluetooth or WiFi and continuously provides all the information you need to assess the health of your network.
Here is an image of what my node, FJP1 is hearing. Anyone who would like to see how our network is doing or how well their node is reaching FJP1, can do so anytime here, which is great for our club members to try different antennas and mounting locations to determine their individual, optimum configurations!
MeshSense is free software and available for Windows, Linux and Mac Silicon! You will find MeshSense here:
MeshSense - Setting Development and Support Expectations.
As most of you know, the core and focus of our software work is Amateur Radio logging and contesting software. MeshSense has been a fun little detour, originally intended as a simple app with just our club in mind, but we've been having so much fun with it and realized that you likely will too, that we decided to make it available to everyone. We've already been receiving requests for additional enhancements (and some of the ideas are really neat), but with all the other projects on our plate, along with our long term, multi year hope / goal of supporting our logging software on multiple platforms, we plan to continue focusing most of our time and energy on our logging software going forward. That said, we welcome your ideas and suggestions for MeshSense!
We think you'll find MeshSense very intuitive and we've added a FAQ link for common MeshSense questions from the MeshSense app (just click the gear icon at the upper right). One step that might take a little experimentation, depending on your Meshtastic firmware and OS, is the Bluetooth or WiFi connection to your PC. We've added Bluetooth and WiFi connection tips on the FAQ page as well.
We only have the ability to support MeshSense via the FAQ page. With all the effort we are putting into developing and answering support questions for our logging software, we don't have the ability to also answer MeshSense e-mail support questions, too.
More Power!
In our local cluster displayed above, we are all currently only running stock nodes at 160 milliwatts output, except for Tom, KC3SVR, who's SVR1 node is using a 1 watt amp / 20 dB preamp that he designed and built himself! Aside from my two sons who are literally next door, Tom's signal is definitely the strongest and much improved since he put his amp in line. If you need to add a bit more power for longer hops and would like to find out more about Tom's SVR-01 amps, you can contact Tom here: Tom.Lunsford1@...
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please see this page here for more information:
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our HamDash, WX Warn weather, Amateur Exam Study Buddy and MeshSense applications! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis 118 Glenwood Road Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here:
Enjoy!
|
Hi All,
Kimberly, Chris and I hope that you are having a wonderful summer! This is just a super quick note to let you know that we've updated the following programs:
ARRL IARU HF 5.0.6 - Corrected scoring for two character IARU station designation multipliers. New Jersey QSO Party 2.5.6 (In State and Out of State) - Modified Cabrillo file header per contest sponsor's request. Washington Salmon Run (State QSO Party) 4.3.7 - Updated In State version per the latest rule changes for new Canadian multipliers.
As always, upgrades and new programs are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021 and are Internet connected, each program should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start. If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can install the latest versions directly from our web site.
It's still hot now, but another exciting fall / winter contest season is right around the corner and it will be here before we know it. Let's get ready!!!
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please see this page here for more information:
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our HamDash, WX Warn weather and Amateur Exam Study Buddy applications! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis 118 Glenwood Road Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here:
Enjoy!
|
ARRL Field Day is Next Weekend!
Hi All,
Just a few tips and reminders as we prepare for Field Day next weekend!
As we approach Field Day weekend, groups from all over the continent are making final preparations, getting equipment, generators, food, rigs and computers together, antennas airborne, coordinating operating schedules and all the little things that make Field Day go. In many cases they will be on the air for many hours, striving to both show off the amazing hobby of Amateur Radio and turn in a competitive score. It is a huge amount of fun and a heck of a lot of work! Please help reward their great efforts by providing plenty of QSOs for their logs!
If you aren't already part of a group and would like to be, please reach out to your local club. It's likely they will be thrilled to have you participate with them! You can find clubs participating in Field Day in your area here:
Even if you aren't a contester and you only have an hour to spare from home, please fire up your rig and give as many stations as you can a contact. Everyone you call will really appreciate your QSO and it will make their Field Day that much more enjoyable! In addition, you might be able to pick up a few more states towards your Worked All States Award.
You will find a quick start video for using our Field Day log here:
Don't wait for Field Day morning to realize you can't find your registration information! Please check now! If you can't find your Field Day password, please go ahead and retrieve it here:
If you plan to use a network for Field Day and haven't already done so, it's time to get all the PCs you'll be using together and make sure your network is all set. Complete details on networking our Field Day software using both File Share and TCP methods are here:
Please take a little time well before Field Day, get your PCs together and your network up and running. As always, problems easily solved in a relaxed atmosphere can seem insurmountable when the clock is ticking!
Enjoy tracking how your Field Day is going, even when you are away from the site, as well as how your group is doing collectively on HamDash! We already have 1,225 stations on board!
Encouraging Field Day visitors can change a life (and even affect yours)!
When I was 14 years old, a family friend took my Dad and me to a local Field Day on a Saturday evening. That was my first exposure to Amateur Radio. I didn't understand the significance at the time, but the guys had an amazing run going as we arrived at their site. Still, they took the time to explain what was going on, the exchange, and they were completely willing to abandon their run to encourage this shy, 14 year old to take over the mic. I got started, the run resumed and so much was happening, I forgot all about being nervous. Before I knew it I was having a blast! Anyone who has ever been at the bottom of a pile up, running a frequency, knows the thrill. They kindly said I was a natural, and I was hooked!
Had it not been for the positive, encouraging spirit of that great group, willing to forego an awesome run for the sake of possibly encouraging a kid, I'd very likely never have become an Amateur Radio operator. I wouldn't be doing what I'm doing today, and there would never have been N3FJP Software for you to use. Those couple hours changed my life and hopefully, through our software, has brought some added enjoyment to yours, too!
If you see a visitor with a hint of intrigue in their eye, please offer them that same gracious encouragement that was given to me. It's very possible that you will be helping to shape a destiny, and we will all be better for it!
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please see this page here for more information:
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our HamDash, WX Warn weather and Amateur Exam Study Buddy applications! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis 118 Glenwood Road Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here:
Enjoy!
|
Maryland QSO Party 4.6.6 Now Available! LoTW Service Disruption.
Hi All,
We have two quick announcements for you from N3FJP Software headquarters...
Maryland QSO Party 4.6.6 is Now Available!
We've updated the in state and out of state versions of the Maryland QSO Party software (4.6.6) for the latest rule changes. As always, upgrades and new programs are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021 and are Internet connected, each program should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start. If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can install the latest versions directly from our web site.
ARRL Log Book of The World (LoTW) Server Disruption.
The ARRL LoTW server is experiencing a service disruption. We've been receiving lots of e-mail regarding the sudden, recent inability to upload to ARRL's LoTW server, requests for fixes and insights on the timeline for service resumption.
The LoTW server requires restoration by ARRL before you will again be able to upload QSOs from our software. Please note that we are not directly affiliated with ARRL. While we have no doubt that the good folks at ARRL are working extremely hard to correct the problem as quickly as possible, we do not have any additional insights to provide regarding LoTW repair time estimates, beyond what ARRL has posted on their web site. For ARRL's latest updates, please visit their link here:
And for the latest LoTW server status, check this site here:
Currently, for this event, (from the link above) ARRL reports that:
"We are in the process of responding to a serious incident involving access to our network and headquarters-based systems. Several services, such as Logbook of The World® and the ARRL Learning Center, are affected. Please know that restoring access is our highest priority, and we are expeditiously working with outside industry experts to address the issue. We appreciate your patience. This story will be updated with new developments."
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please see this page here for more information:
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our HamDash, WX Warn weather and Amateur Exam Study Buddy applications! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis 118 Glenwood Road Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here:
Enjoy!
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
|
Amateur Contact Log 7.0.10 Now Available!
Hi All,
We've been receiving lots of requests from POTA users for Other field capitalization in support of the new POTA parks naming convention, so we've gone ahead and added the option to force upper case characters for each of the Other fields in Amateur Contact Log 7.0.10. Just click Settings > Other Field Titles and Fill Behavior to configure each Other field to your preference.
As always, upgrades and new programs are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021 and are Internet connected, each program should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start. If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can install the latest versions directly from the web site. You will find AC Log here:
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please see this page here for more information:
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our HamDash, WX Warn weather and Amateur Exam Study Buddy applications! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis 118 Glenwood Road Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here:
Enjoy!
|
New England QSO Party 4.3.6 Now Available & Support for Solar Eclipse QSO Party in VHF Software!
Hi All,
Just a quick note to let you know that....
In Region and Out of Region versions of the New England QSO Party Contest Software (4.3.6) are Now Available!
We've updated the in region and out of region versions of the New England QSO Party software (4.3.6) for the new abbreviations and rule changes. It is very important that you upgrade to the latest. The previous versions will still automatically retrieve the new abbreviation list on start, they will be able to log QSOs and appear at first glance to work fine, but because of the new, flipped state / county format, the previous versions will not work properly for anyone that does not upgrade.
As always, upgrades and new programs are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021 and are Internet connected, each program should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start. If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can install the latest versions directly from the web site.
VHF Contest Log 6.6.8 With Solar Eclipse QSO Party Support is Now Available!
We mentioned that we've updated our VHF Contest Log (6.6.8) to also include support for the Solar Eclipse QSO Party in our January announcement, but it wasn't part of the title and a lot of folks missed it. While the SEQP includes HF, the existing grid exchange in the VHF software was the best fit for SEQP's inclusion. Just click Settings > Setup and select Solar Eclipse QSO Party in our VHF Contest Log to operate the SEQP.
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please see this page here for more information:
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our HamDash, WX Warn weather and Amateur Exam Study Buddy applications! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis 118 Glenwood Road Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here:
Enjoy!
|
New Winter Field Day Submittal URL in Winter Field Day Contest Log 2.8.8!
Hi All,
I hope you enjoyed Winter Field Day this past weekend!
When I went to submit my Cabrillo file for Winter Field Day yesterday, I discovered that the Winter Field Day folks changed their submittal URL. We've updated Winter Field Day Contest Log 2.8.8 for the new URL. With version 2.8.8, when you click the Open Winter Field Day Log Submission Form link from the WFD Cabrillo form, 2.8.8 will take you to their new submittal URL here:
As always, upgrades and new programs are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021 and are Internet connected, each program should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start. If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can install the latest version directly from the web site. You will find the latest Winter Field Day software here:
To submit your Winter Field Day log, just click File > Write Cabrillo File and complete the form that appears. Then go here to submit your log. You will indicate any bonus points on their submittal form.
More details are here:
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please see this page here for more information:
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our HamDash, WX Warn weather and Amateur Exam Study Buddy applications! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis 118 Glenwood Road Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here:
Enjoy!
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
|
Updates for VHF, RAC, SC & DE Now Available! Winter Field Day This Weekend!
Hi All,
Just a quick note to let you know the following updates are now available!
VHF Contest Log 6.6.8 - updated to also support the Solar Eclipse QSO Party. While the SEQP includes HF, the existing grid exchange in the VHF software was the best fit for SEQP's inclusion. Just click Settings > Setup and select Solar Eclipse QSO Party.
RAC Contest Log 3.6.6 - updated for VE3RHQ point assignment.
South Carolina QSO Party Contest Logs 2.7.6 (in state and out of state) - updated for rule change of multipliers by band and mode.
Delaware QSO Party Contest Log 1.0.1 (in state and out of state) - we added these new programs to support the Delaware QSO Party!
As always, upgrades and new programs are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021 and are Internet connected, each program should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start. If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can install the latest version directly from the web site.
Reminder - Winter Field Day is This Weekend!
Winter Field Day is always loads of fun and I'm looking forward to jumping into the fray this weekend! Make sure you have your program set up and registered before leaving for your Field Day site. If you need to recover your password, you can do that here:
Watch the action in real time here on HamDash! Just click Settings > Web Upload Contest Status to configure.
I hope to work you!
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please see this page here for more information:
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our HamDash, WX Warn weather and Amateur Exam Study Buddy applications! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis 118 Glenwood Road Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here:
Enjoy!
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
|
Program Upgrades for NT & PE Abbreviations are Now Available!
Hi All,
We hope that everyone is getting set to enjoy the upcoming holidays! This is just a quick note to let you know that we've updated the following programs for the newer Prince Edward Island (PE) and Northwest Territories (NT) abbreviations where applicable. We had already updated the rest of the programs some time ago.
ARRL 10 Meter Contest Logs ARRL RTTY Roundup CQ 160 DX North American QSO Party North American Sprint CW Ten - Ten
As always, upgrades are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021 and are Internet connected, it should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start. If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can install the latest version directly from the web site.
Also, we just renewed our code signing certificate, so you might see the Windows SmartScreen unrecognized program form on installation. If you do, just click More info and then click Run anyway to complete the installation. Lots more installation details are here:
Chris, Kimberly and I hope that you have a very Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, a wonderful Holiday season!
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please see this page here for more information:
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our HamDash, WX Warn weather and Amateur Exam Study Buddy applications! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis 118 Glenwood Road Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here:
Enjoy!
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
|
AC Log Upgrade - Windows 7, 8 & 8.1 Users: Okay to Proceed!
Hi All,
Windows 7, 8 & 8.1 users, Chris and I have found a solution, so that your World Map will display!
If you've not yet upgraded to AC Log 7.0.9 and then clicked View World map to upgrade Affirmatech Extensions, you are all set. Simply proceed with the automatic upgrade as detailed in our earlier announcement.
If you have already installed the latest Affirmatech Extension package, please do the following:
- Close AC Log.
- Uninstall Affirmatech Extensions from Windows Control Panel
- Start AC Log and click View > World Map. This will prompt the reinstallation of AE.
Thanks so much for your patience. We really appreciate it!
Enjoy!
73, Scott N3FJP
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
|
AC Log Upgrade and Windows 7 - Please Wait
Hi All,
It has come to light that one of the embedded tools that Affirmatech Extensions requires to display the maps no longer supports Windows 7. Windows 7 left active Windows support back in 2020.
We are looking to see if there is an alternative we can incorporate into Affirmatech Extensions that will also work on Windows 7. If you are running Windows 7 (or possibly Windows 8), please just click the X when prompted for the upgrade for now.
We will let you know if we find a solution for Windows 7 users.
Thanks for your patience!
Stay tuned....
73, Scott N3FJP
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
|
Amateur Contact Log 7.0.9 and New Versions of All Contest Logs are Now Available!
Hi All,
Amateur Contact Log 7.0.9 and New Versions of All Contest Logs are Now Available!
We weren't planning a global release of all our log programs just now, but it came to light that our World Map tile source is discontinuing their service at the end of the month. To keep our World Map functioning, this upgrade is required.
After you upgrade to the new version and click View > World Map, you will be prompted to upgrade to the latest Affirmatech Extensions package. Just go ahead and proceed with the Affirmatech Extensions upgrade and the software will take care of the rest. The Affirmatech Extensions upgrade will apply to all programs, so you should only be prompted for it once.
The enhancements in this release include:
- Updated for new map tile source for world map (will prompt for Affirmatech Extensions update) - Indexing of Call field for faster JTAlert B4 lookup - Ensure port remains closed for Rig Interface when None is selected on the Rig Interface form - CW Loop sending when RI: is used for rig commands
For a refresher on using the World Map, please see this documentation and short video here:
By the way, I've found the World Map to be a great contesting enhancement for increasing my click and pounce rate! As DX spots appear on the World Map in areas where you know you have good propagation, just keep clicking on those World Map DX spots in that region for as long as it lasts. With rig interface enabled, your rig will immediately tune to the spot frequency and you can work a lot of stations in a hurry! If an Italian station tells you that you are loud, keep clicking those Italy DX Spots on the World Map!
As always, upgrades are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021, AC Log and the contest software should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start. If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can follow these AC Log upgrade steps.
And these contest software upgrade steps:
Delaware QSO Party Contest Log Now Available!
We've added support for the Delaware QSO Party! You will find the software here:
As always, any additional programs we add to the package are free to registered package users. Just use the State QSO Party password from your password list for the DE software. If you need to recover your passwords, you can do that here:
If you are only interested in our software specific content, unless you wish to upgrade to our full package or send us a donation (for which we are always very grateful), you need read no further. For those of you without beams, take heart!
Chasing the Big Guns with Dipoles!
As our Fall / Winter contest season is ramping up, I want to encourage anyone without beams to know that you can do very well on the high bands with two, or ideally three sets of fan dipoles for 20 / 15 / 10! For a long time I only had wire antennas. Now I have two, K4KIO hex beams in fixed positions that are hanging from trees. From here in MD, one hex is oriented to radiate northeast for Europe and the other south for South America. That leaves a big NW / SE gap that my 20 / 15 / 10 fan dipole fills nicely for western US, Alaska, Hawaii, Australia, Japan, Africa, Caribbean etc.
I've experimented, comparing the hex beam to the dipole with the same orientation. The hex beam is an upgrade that I recommend when you can and the advantage of the hex beam to the dipole in the favored, broadside direction is meaningful, but not huge. With two or three sets of fan dipoles at a reasonable height (at least 1/2 wavelength on the lowest band, which is 33 feet for 20 meters), sensible orientations (be sure to aim one set for EU) and time in the chair, you may not pass them, but you can absolutely push the big guns in your club on contest weekends!
A couple other nice benefits of this approach are:
- You are nimble, only needing to flip your antenna switch to change direction, while beam users have to wait while they turn - You need not purchase a rotor or tower (if you have trees) - You can build a fan dipole for a song, only needing a center connector, wire and some thin PVC spreaders from your local hardware store - There is no need for a mast if you have a tree or high roof - Fan dipoles are really neighborhood friendly. Paint the spreaders black and once in the air, they are very hard to spot - Beams are excellent in one direction, but dipoles do very well in two directions simultaneously
By the way, I love the inverted V approach for antennas hanging from trees, since you don't have to worry so much about tree sway with a single, center support. Typically you can pull the apex higher, the lines can be connected to convenient trees near the ground where they don't sway so much, or 4' X 4's, that don't sway at all! Here is a picture of my inverted V fan dipole with the arrow pointing out the apex (the 10M element is in the middle).
Don't have a beam? Give the fan dipoles a try, fire up N3FJP Software and see if you can pass me on CQ WW SSB at the end of this month! Watch how we are doing in real time on HamDash!
This is fun stuff gang!
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please see this page here for more information:
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our HamDash, WX Warn weather and Amateur Exam Study Buddy applications! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis 118 Glenwood Road Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here:
Enjoy!
|
VHF 6.6.5, CA QSO Party 4.4.5 & WA Salmon Run QSO Party 4.3.5 are Now Available!
Hi All,
We hope you are having a wonderful summer and looking forward to the excitement of the fall / winter contest season!
This is just a quick announcement to let you know that...
VHF Contest Log, 6.6.5, CA QSO Party 4.4.5 & WA Salmon Run QSO Party 4.3.5 are Now Available!
All three programs have been updated for rule changes including:
VHF Contest Log 6.6.5 - modified for 10 GHz and up rule changes. CA QSO Party 4.4.5 - Modified for rule changes including revised section abbreviation list. WA QSO Party 4.3.5 - Modified for rule changes including revised section abbreviation list.
As always, upgrades are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021 and are Internet connected, it should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start.
If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can install the latest version directly from the web site.
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please send us an e-mail directly and we'll let you know your balance.
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our HamDash, WX Warn weather and Amateur Exam Study Buddy applications! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis 118 Glenwood Road Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here for all the steps:
Enjoy!
|
Upgrade to Field Day Log 6.6.7 Required!
Hi All,
A few reminders for next weekend's Field Day event:
Upgrade to Field Day Log 6.6.7 Required!
ARRL Field Day is just 7 days away! If you haven't started to prepare, now is the time! First, please be sure to upgrade to version 6.6.7 of our ARRL Field Day software in advance, so that you can log the new Canadian section abbreviations and apply the latest rule changes. This is a required upgrade. There are several Canadian section abbreviation changes effective January 1, 2023 and you won't be able to log these abbreviations unless you upgrade.
Please make sure everyone at your Field Day site is running version 6.6.7! Please check with your buddies and club members now, to make sure they are aware of the needed upgrade! We don't want anyone disappointed next weekend, or any Field Day sites thrown into confusion when an operator attempts to log a changed Canadian section abbreviation with an old version of our software.
As always, upgrades are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021 and are Internet connected, it should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start.
If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can install the latest version directly from the web site:
And please also remember that:
You will find a quick start video for using our Field Day log here:
If you can't find your Field Day password, please go ahead and retrieve it here.
If you plan to use a network for Field Day and haven't already done so, it's time to get all the PCs you'll be using together and make sure your network is all set. Complete details on networking our Field Day software using both File Share and TCP methods are here:
Please take a little time now, get your PCs together and your network up and running. As always, problems easily solved in a relaxed atmosphere can seem insurmountable when the clock is ticking!
And the steps to interface many digital programs with our software are here:
Enjoy Field Day! We will be operating from N3FJP headquarters as 1E (home station, emergency power - 100% powered by our new Tesla solar panels and powerwall). We hope to work you!
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please send us an e-mail directly and we'll let you know your balance.
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our HamDash, WX Warn weather and Amateur Exam Study Buddy applications! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis 118 Glenwood Road Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here for all the steps:
Enjoy!
|
Amateur Contact Log 7.0.8 Now Available, Field Day Reminders & HamDash Real Time Club Standings!
Hi All,
Chris, Kimberly and I are excited to let you know that...
Amateur Contact Log 7.0.8 is Now Available!
AC Log 7.0.8 upgrades include:
MY_State and MY_County fields added to Setup form (Settings > Setup)
Updated HamDB to restore functionality for new URL
Spot Me on DX Spotting form and via Ctrl + Shift + H
Comments now upload to and downloaded from QRZ logbook
Awards form labels change to confirmed when appropriate after running Calculate
None - Ctrl X now works for rig interface.
Restored statistics values in AC Log (View > Statistics).
Club Log form saves resize and position
Watch List DX spotting alert now displays who spotted the station
As always, upgrades are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021, AC Log should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start. If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can follow these AC Log upgrade steps:
https://www.n3fjp.com/upgradestepsaclog.html
ARRL Field Day Reminder!
ARRL Field Day is just 23 days away, so if you haven't started to prepare, now is the time! First, please be sure to upgrade to version 6.6.7 of our ARRL Field Day software in advance, so that you can log the new Canadian section abbreviations and apply the latest rule changes. There are several Canadian section abbreviation changes effective January 1, 2023 and you won't be able to log these abbreviations unless you upgrade.
As always, upgrades are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021 and are Internet connected, it should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start. If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can install the latest version directly from the web site:
https://www.n3fjp.com/fieldday.html
As we approach Field Day weekend, groups from all over the continent will be making final preparations, getting equipment, generators, food, rigs and computers together, antennas airborne, coordinating operating schedules and all the little things that make Field Day go. In many cases they will be on the air for many hours, striving to both show off the amazing hobby of Amateur Radio and turn in a competitive score. It is a huge amount of fun and a heck of a lot of work! Please help reward their great efforts by providing plenty of QSOs for their logs!
If you aren't already part of a group and would like to be, please reach out to your local club. It's likely they will be thrilled to have you participate with them! You can find clubs participating in Field Day in your area here:
http://www.arrl.org/field-day-locator
Even if you aren't a contester and you only have an hour to spare from home, please fire up your rig and give as many stations as you can a contact. Everyone you call will really appreciate your QSO and it will make their Field Day that much more enjoyable! In addition, you might be able to pick up a few more states towards your Worked All States Award.
You will find a quick start video for using our Field Day log here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DJEIXuoKWqc
If you can't find your Field Day password, please go ahead and retrieve it here:
https://juliet.affirmatech.com/passwords
If you plan to use a network for Field Day and haven't already done so, it's time to get all the PCs you'll be using together and make sure your network is all set. Complete details on networking our Field Day software using both File Share and TCP methods are here.
http://www.n3fjp.com/help/networkinghelp.html
Please take a little time well before Field Day, get your PCs together and your network up and running. As always, problems easily solved in a relaxed atmosphere can seem insurmountable when the clock is ticking!
Encouraging Field Day visitors can change a life (and even affect yours)!
When I was 14 years old, a family friend took my Dad and me to a local Field Day on a Saturday evening. That was my first exposure to Amateur Radio. I didn't understand the significance at the time, but the guys had an amazing run going as we arrived at their site. Still, they took the time to explain what was going on, the exchange, and they were completely willing to abandon their run to encourage this shy, 14 year old to take over the mic. I got started, the run resumed and so much was happening, I forgot all about being nervous. Before I knew it I was having a blast! Anyone who has ever been at the bottom of a pile up, running a frequency, knows the thrill. They kindly said I was a natural, and I was hooked!
Had it not been for the positive, encouraging spirit of that great group, willing to forego an awesome run for the sake of possibly encouraging a kid, I'd very likely never have become an Amateur Radio operator. I wouldn't be doing what I'm doing today, and there would never have been N3FJP Software for you to use. Those couple hours changed my life and hopefully, through our software, has brought some added enjoyment to yours, too!
If you see a visitor with a hint of intrigue in their eye, please offer them that same gracious encouragement that was given to me. It's very possible that you will be helping to shape a destiny, and we will all be better for it!
HamDash Now Displays Real Time Club Standings!
Not only can you track your individual score and standings within your club or overall on the HamDash leaderboard, we've just upgraded HamDash to display cumulative scores and standings for all clubs in real time, too! That way, you can see how your club as a whole is doing compared to other clubs, moment by moment! At the HamDash site, just click the Club Standings button at the right to display the club standings leaderboard.
https://hamdash.affirmatech.com/
For more details on HamDash, please see our HamDash announcement here.
http://www.n3fjp.com/news/news2023-02-27.html
And our HamDash help page here:
https://hamdash.affirmatech.com/docs/help
By the way, we already have over 400 folks on the HamDash leaderboard for ARRL Field Day!
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please send us an e-mail directly and we'll let you know your balance.
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our HamDash, WX Warn weather and Amateur Exam Study Buddy applications! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis
118 Glenwood Road
Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris
N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here for all the steps:
Enjoy!
|
Field Day 6.6.7 for Rule Changes and All Contest Software for HamDash Now Available!
Hi All,
Chris, Kimberly and I are excited to let you know that...
ARRL Field Day Log 6.6.7 is Now Available!
ARRL has new scoring rules for Field Day 2023, including separate scoring for GOTA stations and an additional power category, so we have updated our Field Day software accordingly. For proper scoring from GOTA stations, please click Settings > Apply GOTA Point Scoring so that it is checked.
We've also added the ability to display your score with your power multiplier applied. Just click Settings > Power Multiplier to select.
ARRL's complete 2023 Field Day rules are here:
https://contests.arrl.org/ContestRules/Field-Day-Rules.pdf
As always, upgrades are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021, it should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start. If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can install the latest version directly from the web site:
https://www.n3fjp.com/fieldday.html
Upgrades for All Contest Programs are Now Available!
We've updated all our 120+ contest programs to include:
- Interface with our HamDash online real time scoreboard
- Spot Me on DX Spotting form and via Ctrl + Shift + H from the main form to accommodate new self spotting rules
- Notes List - click on header to sort by call or frequency
As always, upgrades are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021, it should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start. If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can install the latest version directly from the web site.
Update on HamDash and Developer API Info!
HamDash, our new fun, real time, online scoreboard has been running for two major contests now and it is working great, with participation already far exceeding our expectations! We had 617 stations on HamDash for ARRL DX SSB and 656 stations for CQ WPX SSB, with lots of kind words following both contests!
https://hamdash.affirmatech.com/
HamDash isn't just for N3FJP Software users. Whichever contest software you choose, we would love to have you join in the fun with us on HamDash! We've just published the HamDash API specifications, so that any contest logging software developer can interface with HamDash. If you would like to see your contest software interface with HamDash too, please encourage your program's developers to implement these HamDash API specs:
https://hamdash.affirmatech.com/docs/developers
For more details on HamDash, please see our HamDash announcement here:
http://www.n3fjp.com/news/news2023-02-27.html
And our HamDash help page here:
https://hamdash.affirmatech.com/docs/help
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please send us an e-mail directly and we'll let you know your balance.
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our WX Warn weather software and Amateur Exam Study Buddy! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis
118 Glenwood Road
Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris
N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here for all the steps:
Enjoy!
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CQ WPX Contest Log 4.9.6 Now Available for HamDash & AD1C E-mail Group!
Hi All,
Just a quick note to let you know that...
CQ WPX Contest Log 4.9.6 is now available!
We've updated CQ WPX Contest Log 4.9.6 to interface with our HamDash on line, real time scoreboard! Following HamDash's very successful debut in ARRL DX SSB, we've already been receiving requests from folks eager to enjoy HamDash in CQ WPX SSB next weekend. With CQ WPX Contest Log 4.9.6, you are all set!
As always, upgrades are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021, it should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start. If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can install the latest version directly from the web site.
https://www.n3fjp.com/cqwpx.html
HamDash's Debut a Success!
We had over 600 stations enjoying HamDash's debut during ARRL DX SSB and lots of kind words for HamDash following the contest!
https://hamdash.affirmatech.com/
HamDash is a great platform to reenergize your club members and have even more fun in the contest chair! You'll find lots more details on HamDash in our previous announcement here:
http://www.n3fjp.com/news/news2023-02-27.html
A Reminder for Jim's AD1C Country List E-mail Updates
Now that Amateur Contact Log silently downloads Jim's AD1C country list updates automatically, you may not even be noticing Jim's continued hard work. If you wish to be notified of Jim's country list changes, please be sure to join his announcement e-mail group here:
https://mail.country-files.com/mailman/listinfo/announce_country-files.com
Maintaining the country list to the detail that Jim freely provides is a much bigger job than you likely realize, so please be sure to thank Jim for his very hard work, for which we are very grateful!
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please send us an e-mail directly and we'll let you know your balance.
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our WX Warn weather software and Amateur Exam Study Buddy! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis
118 Glenwood Road
Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris
N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here for all the steps:
Enjoy!
|
ARRL Int DX Contest Log Upgrades Now Available for HamDash!
Hi All,
Chris, Kimberly and I are excited to let you know that...
ARRL Int DX Contest Log Upgrades are Now Available for HamDash!
ARRL International DX Contest Log 5.1.4 (for USA and Canadian users) and ARRL International DX Contest Log 3.7.4 (DX Version for users outside of the USA and Canada) are now available! These upgrades include:
- Support for HamDash
- Ability to sort the Notes list (Ctrl + H) by clicking on the column header
As always, upgrades are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021, it should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start. If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can install the latest version directly from the web site.
https://www.n3fjp.com/intdx.html
HamDash - The Better, Stronger, Faster Version of Club Score Processor!
You're probably wondering what HamDash is all about. In short, HamDash is a new club (or individual) platform for enjoying contests with your friends and club members, as you each operate from home. HamDash is vastly improved over our existing Club Score Processor program. It displays real time scores throughout the contest and updates as you enter each QSO. It displays fun status graphics, a ticker of calls being worked and a leader board that can be easily filtered just for your buddies or club!
HamDash can be enabled in one click! Your friends or club no longer need web hosting space and you don't have to configure and run our legacy Club Score Processor software anymore! It couldn't be easier for a seasoned contester or first timer to join in the fun with HamDash!
I've always loved contesting, but before I created Club Score Processor, I really missed sharing the experience on contest weekends. I've written at length how contesting virtually together, using Club Score Processor as a team and seeing our buddy's scores and achievements in real time has really reinvigorated our local club. ARRL even published my article on it in August 2016! There's lots more on that here:
And here:
One of our goals has been to provide Club Score Processor functionality with a one click solution and no user supplied web space required. We believe that we have achieved it with HamDash! Now, any individual or club can easily join in the HamDash fun!
Rather than going on with a lengthy description, whether you are in a club or not, please try HamDash in ARRL DX SSB this weekend and experience it first hand! The more the merrier!
Configuring HamDash in N3FJP Software
After you download the contest software, please click Settings > Setup and select SSB (since the contest this weekend is SSB). Then click Settings > Web Contest Upload > Other Online Sites. By the HamDash (N3FJP Scoreboard) option on the upper left, click Test. You should see a 200: OK message. Aside from leaving HamDash enabled, that is all you have to do. Just operate the contest normally and enjoy HamDash!
The HamDash Display
You can visit HamDash anytime before the contest to test your upload and see how you are doing during the contest here:
Just click on ARRL Inter. DX Contest SSB to view your data upload.
As you enter a QSO, you should see your score flash green and update almost immediately. It is fine to test before the contest with test data, which will clear when the contest starts. You just won't see the rates display until the contest becomes active. While the contest is active, you will see additional columns including the graphics, rates and optionally frequencies.
At the HamDash site, click the gear button for your settings. You can select different display themes, enter your call and select a club for the other club members to be indicated by a club graphic. You can filter for just your club members as well. You can also select the option for Non-Assisted view, which will hide the frequency displays, if you plan to operate Non-Assisted.
A few other usage notes about HamDash..
- If you don't see your club in the drop down list, simply click Test to do an upload with your club in the Club Name field. Even if you and your buddies aren't in an official club, you can make one up on the fly.
- Not in a club? That's fine too! Just leave the club filter blank to see all who are participating. Everyone is welcome!
- If you have clicked test and don't see your upload, make sure that you have selected the SSB contest in the International DX Contest software (Settings > Setup).
- On the HamDash display, graphics include:
Zz = No QSOs for over 60 minutes
Coffee Cup = No QSOs for over 20 minutes
Up arrow = 20 min QSO rate 35% higher than 60 min rate
Down arrow = 20 min QSO rate 35% lower than 60 min rate
Fire = Fastest 20 minute QSO rate on the board
Club = Other members of your club
Person Running = Station is running a frequency (appears after logging 6 consecutive QSOs on the same frequency)
This graphic was capture while beta testing HamDash with CQ WPX RTTY:
A Few More Notes
There are several great scoreboard options available including Contest Online Score and CQ Contest. We've supported them for years and we are really excited to add HamDash to the list of available platforms. They each do certain things well, so please continue to upload to them all! The HamDash concept in particular has done wonders for our club and we hope it will have the same affect on yours, too!
The dates for the upcoming contests are generously provided by WA7BNM Contest Calendar, for which we are very grateful. https://www.contestcalendar.com/
We plan to publish the HamDash API specifications soon, so that any contest logging software developer can interface with HamDash.
Lord willing, very soon, we hope to have new versions for all the rest of our contest logs in the N3FJP suite to support HamDash, so please stay tuned!
We hope to see you on HamDash this weekend and good luck in ARRL International DX SSB!
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please send us an e-mail directly and we'll let you know your balance.
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our WX Warn weather software and Amateur Exam Study Buddy! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis
118 Glenwood Road
Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it! We hope that you continue to have a very Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and wonderful holiday season!!!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris
N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here for all the steps:
Enjoy!
|
EU-DX Contest Log 1.0.3 Now Available for Cabrillo Formatting Correction!
Hi All,
Just a quick note to let you know that a Cabrillo formatting error came to light on submitting my EU-DX log. I also discovered that the country multiplier was not being added, in addition to the zone, for EU countries, so I have corrected that as well.
If you participated in the contest this weekend, you will need to use EU-DX Contest Log version 1.0.3 to create your Cabrillo file in a format that will be accepted by the contest robot (File > Write Cabrillo File).
Next time you start the EU-DX contest log, it should detect the new version and offer to upgrade for you, but if you have any trouble, you can download the latest directly from the web site:
http://n3fjp.com/eudx.html
On submitting with EU-DX Contest Log 1.0.3, the robot accepted my QSOs fine and our score calculation was in sync with the robot's.
Enjoy!
73, Scott
N3FJP
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
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Amateur Contact Log 7.0.7 Now Available, WFD Reminder, VOTA and More!
Hi All,
Kimberly, Chris and I have several announcements for you!
Amateur Contact Log 7.0.7 is Now Available!
AC Log 7.0.7 includes the following enhancements:
- Added 10 memory fields to the Frequency Change form (Ctrl + F)
- Option to silently detect and download AD1C country list updates (File > Download Country Files from AD1C > Ask Before Download)
- Upgraded behavior of Watch List alert form (clears automatically, continued access to main form, click Go to tune to spot)
- Detects POTA in user customized settings file name and offers to properly configure Other field titles automatically, if necessary
- Links added to WXWarn and Amateur Exam Study Buddy from AC Log's View menu
- ADIF satellite tags (SAT_NAME and PROP_MODE) on LoTW download, filling fields in AC Log if they are currently empty
As always, upgrades are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021, AC Log should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start. If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can follow these AC Log upgrade steps:
https://www.n3fjp.com/upgradestepsaclog.html
Please be sure to use Winter Field Day version 2.8.5 next weekend!
Winter Field Day is next weekend! Please be sure to upgrade to version 2.8.5 of our Winter Field Day software in advance, so that you can log the new Canadian section abbreviations and latest rule changes. There are several Canadian section abbreviation changes effective January 1, 2023 and you won't be able to log these abbreviations or the newly allowed categories for this year unless you upgrade.
As always, upgrades are free to registered users. If you are currently running a version of our software released after January 2021 and are Internet connected, it should detect the new upgrade and offer to retrieve it for you on start. If you have any problem with the automatic upgrade, or you are running an older version, you can install the latest version directly from the web site.
Additional Amateur Exam Study Buddy Enhancements Now Available!
Since releasing Amateur Exam Study Buddy last month, we've received lots of enthusiastic encouragement and great suggestions! We've incorporated as many of your enhancement ideas as possible into the latest version, including:
- Added graphics for questions as referenced
- Exam mode for simulated exams
- Ability to retry missed questions
- Ability to select responses by keyboard
Amateur Exam Study Buddy is free, there is nothing to download, it is operating system agnostic, will run entirely in your browser and will even work on your phone! Use Chrome or Firefox for best results. Whether you want to upgrade your own license or help a prospective ham along, you will find Amateur Exam Study Buddy here:
https://study.affirmatech.com/
Contest Program Updates Now Available!
The following contest program updates are now available:
All Asia DX 2.2.4 - corrected Cabrillo output format
West Virginia (in state 3.3.4 and out of state 3.3.4) - point value QSO rule change
New Mexico (in state 2.2.4and out of state 2.1.4) - contest exchange change where RST replaces name
These upgrades are free! Just use the same upgrade procedure as detailed in the Winter Field Day section above.
ARRL Volunteers on the Air (VOTA)!
There's been lots of excitement for ARRL's 2023 year long VOTA event! If you remember the ARRL Centennial in 2014 on which VOTA is structured, you know why! If you are new to Amateur Radio since 2014, you are in for a treat! Following the 2014 Centennial, I had multiple folks tell me that was the most fun year in Amateur Radio that they ever had! I loved it too!
Like the early days of the Centennial, many folks have been wondering if we will write a separate program for VOTA, but since ARRL tracks everything on line based on LoTW uploads, Amateur Contact Log works perfectly as is and will do everything we need!
For folks operating W1AW/X, we put together a FAQ page that will answer all of your common questions here:
http://www.n3fjp.com/news/news2014-03-24.html
For the rest of us, just keeping making lots of QSOs, whether casual or contest and then uploading to LoTW with Amateur Contact Log! ARRL will create the leaderboard and do all the heavy lifting behind the scenes to track our progress for us! More details on VOTA are here:
https://www.arrl.org/volunteers-on-the-air
For help in finding VOTA points in 2023, one of our local NEMARC club members, Fred, W3FR, manually compiled an AC Log WatchList.txt file with all of the ARRL officers listed on pages 15 and 16 of the January QST magazine. If you wish to download the VOTA Watchlist file, please visit:
https://www.n3fjp.com/vota.html
And in response to the questions we always receive when we neglect to include the following in our e-mail announcements...
Package Upgrade Information...
If you have registered one or more individual programs and would like to upgrade to N3FJP's Software Package for full use of all our Amateur Radio software, we would be glad to apply the amount that you have registered so far as a credit towards that purchase. Please send us an e-mail directly and we'll let you know your balance.
N3FJP's Software Package includes more than one hundred programs for contesting, net management and general logging Amateur Radio applications, as well as our WX Warn weather software and Amateur Exam Study Buddy! In addition to full use of all these programs, registered package customers are also entitled to receive free passwords for any new software that we add to the package and free upgrades to existing programs. There are no annual / maintenance costs of any kind. Simply register once and you are set with N3FJP Software for life! You'll find all the details on the Register Now page here:
Donations are Gratefully Accepted!
And in response to the often asked question, for which Kimberly, Chris and I are very grateful...
"I know your upgrades are free, but I also realize how much time and effort coding these enhancements and new programs take and that your pricing policy doesn't fully reflect that. Can I send you something to show my appreciation for your continued efforts?"
Yes, thanks so much, your continued support in any amount is very welcome and deeply appreciated! You can use this page:
or send your contribution by mail, payable to Affirmatech Inc., to:
G. Scott Davis
118 Glenwood Road
Bel Air, MD 21014-5533
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Thanks!
As always, thanks for your kind words, support, linking to our web site and spreading the word about our software. Kimberly, Chris and I really appreciate it! We hope that you continue to have a very Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and wonderful holiday season!!!
73, Scott, Kimberly and Chris
N3FJP, KA3SEQ and KB3KCN
Serving the Amateur Radio community with contesting and general logging software since 1997.
p.s. If you want to unsubscribe or need to change your e-mail address for future announcements....
If you wish to be removed from this e-mail list, or you would like to change your e-mail, please see this FAQ here for all the steps:
Enjoy!
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