Menu Options

From DXLog.net
Revision as of 16:05, 15 February 2020 by Sm7iun (talk | contribs) (Winkey Configuration)
Jump to navigation Jump to search

Load contest at startup

  • Enabled
If checked last opened log will be opened automatically when DXLog.net is started.
  • Disabled
If checked, DXlog.net is started but no log is opened.

Automatic backup

When clicked, this will open the log automatic backup settings window. Here parameters for log automatic backup can be set according to the user's preference.

Auto backup.png

Language

Choose the log language. The languages available are English, Croatian, Italian, and Norwegian.

Keyboard selector

This option allows the assignment of a different keyboard to each entry line. You (obviously) must have more than one keyboard connected to the PC to use this option.

Select Options -> Keyboard selector. A form opens showing the current keyboard assignment.

Keyboard select default.png

Now click on Define. A popup will appear asking you to identify the Radio 1 keyboard.

Keyboard select keyboard 1.png

This keyboard will be assigned to the Radio 1 (upper) log entry line. Press any key on keyboard 1.
Now press any key on the keyboard to be assigned to the Radio 2 (lower) entry line. If successful,
the form will show some cryptic identifiers for the keyboards.
If you really do have separate keyboards ensure that the identifiers are different.
It is possible to use one keyboard and assign it to both positions, which will show as the same
identifier for both Radio 1 and Radio 2. The form should look something like this:

Keyboard select success.png

Now click OK to save your assignments and close the form.

If you find that something doesn't work or need to reset to the default Any Keyboard configuration, open
the Keyboard selector form and select the Reset button. Click OK and any previous keyboard assignments will be removed.

CW/Digi

  • No sound
Text command: SOUND and NOSOUND
Off by default. When checked, no CW side tone will be produced.
If a smart keyer (e.g. WinKey) is configured on any of the interfaces, this function is disabled.
  • Enable different R1/R2 speed
Text command: SYNCCW and NOSYNCCW
If checked, allows the CW speed to be independently set on Radio 1 and Radio 2.
  • Speed
    • Decrease [Alt][F9]
      Decrease active radio CW speed by 2 WPM.
    • Decrease other [Shift][Alt][F9]
      Decrease inactive radio CW speed by 2 WPM.
    • Increase [Alt][F10]
      Increase active radio CW speed by 2 WPM.
    • Increase other [Shift][Alt][F10]
Increase inactive radio CW speed by 2 WPM.
  • Modify standard messages
Text command: MESSAGES or MSGS
This option is used to edit the contents of all standard F-key, INS and PLUS messages for RUN and Search & Pounce mode.
Standard messages cw2.png
Any edited content is saved for the currently selected contest and will be used for any new logs for the same contest.
Standard messages options2.png
The Options tab allows the setting of additional message options:
$QSOB4 macro
This text will be sent if $QSOB4 macro is activated due to a duplicate QSO.
NB. The use of QSOB4 mechanics in contests is a heritage from paper log days and not a recommended practice.
Only use RUN messages
DXLog.net will use only RUN messages, even if you switch mode to Search & Pounce.
Sprint Exchange Logic
This setting is applicable only for contests where Sprint Exchange Logic is enabled in config file.
When this option is checked, if the operator presses the INSERT key, DXLog.net will send the INS message in RUN mode if the
received serial number field is empty. Otherwise, DXLog.net will only send the INS message in Search & Pounce mode.
  • Modify additional messages [Alt][C]
Define or edit additional CW/Digital mode messages which can be invoked in a macro using commands
$MSG1..12 or by pushing keys [Ctrl][Alt][F1..12]
Othercwdigi3.PNG
Content of additional messages are saved in the DXLog.net config file and is thus common for all contests.
  • Serial number
    Chooses serial number abbreviation type when sending serial number during the contest.
    Available options are:
    • Leading zeros: When checked, leading zeros are sent (for example 001 instead of 1).
      Text command: LZ and NOLZ
    • Use 'O' instead of 'T' for zero: When checked, all number 0 are replaced with the letter O.
    • Not abbreviated: When checked, all numbers are sent without any abbreviation.
      Text command: NOABBREV
    • Half abbreviated: When checked, all number 0 are replaced with the letter T.
      Text command: SEMIABBREV
    • Abbreviated: When checked, all numbers 0 and 9 are replaced with the letters T and N.
      Text command: FULLABBREV
    • Pro: When checked, all numbers 0, 1, 4, 5 and 9 are replaced with letters T, A, V, E and N
      Text command: PROABBREV
    • Custom: When checked the Custom Abbreviation table will be used to substitute characters
    • Set custom abbreviation table: Enables editing of substitutions character by character
      When clicked, a form will open to allow assignment of character substitutions.
Custom cw digi abbreviation table form.png
Add Adds a new substitution. First enter the character to be replaced. Then enter the character to be used in its place.
Delete Removes the currently selected substitution.
OK Saves changes and closes the form
Cancel Discards changes and closes the form
  • Shortened spaces (CT spaces)
Text command: CTSPACE and NOCTSPACE
When checked, shortened spaces will be activated (CT style). A shortened word space is 5 units instead of normal 7.
  • Remap keys in keyboard mode
When checked, keyboard remapping will be active also when sending CW/RTTY text in keyboard mode.
  • Work dupes
Text command: WORKDUPE and NOWORKDUPE
Text command: WORKDUPEON and WORKDUPEOFF
When checked, the $QSOB4 message will not be sent if QSO is a dupe.
Checked by default. It is generally a bad practice to not work dupes in a contest.
  • Speed limits
Sets the minimum and maximum CW speeds that can be selected by the increase/decrease speed menu options and keyboard shortcuts.
  • Add spacing when stacking messages
Adds a word space when pressing two F-keys in rapid succession.
Enabled by default.
  • Use smart double buffer
If Winkey is attached, this option sends 2 characters to the Winkey before waiting for a response,
which means that DXLog.net will always be one character ahead of the attached Winkey.
  • Auto sending
Text command: CWAUTO and AUTOCW
When enabled and the mode is CW, DXLog.net will autosend the INSERT message after 3 or 4 characters of
the callsign have been typed into the log callsign entry field removing the need to press the insert key during a QSO.
For example, you're operating in run mode..
F1 - CQ TEST G2F
Now 9A5K is calling you..
You're typing in callsign field: 9A5 ... as you've typed "5", DXLog starts the INSERT message. in meantime you press K completing the
callsign.. So DXL will send 9A5K 5NN 001 without pressing the insert key
  • Enable smart correction
When checked, DXLog will send only the part of the callsign that was corrected.
Example: if you correct W6ABB to W6ABC, only ABC will be sent by the $CORRECT macro.

Configure interfaces

Text command: SETUP

500px

DXLog.net currently supports interfaces for up to 8 COM ports and one LPT port.
To use any of the ports to connect to the hardware and perform a function,
you must enable the port by checking "Enabled" box.

Serial ports

In the serial port section, you can select any COM port in range COM1 to COM20.
The only restriction is that you can not select same COM port for more than one interface.
In each serial port interface you can select the appropriate device type from the combo box in the same row.
Each device has additional parameters for settings. You can change the parameters by clicking on the relevant setup button
for each interface.

You may also select WINKEY, OTRSP, MK2R/MK2R+/u2r, etc. for the type of device on each port.
These settings are the relevant "pipes" required for certain devices (for example, the YCCC SO2R box).

Digital Voice Keyer

The Digital Voice Keyer (DVK) section allows a PC audio card or adapter to be used to record and
play back SSB DVK messages. Select the relevant DVK playback device (audio from this device is phyrically connected the the radio audio input)
Select the relevant DVK record device (Usually a microphone connected to the PC Mic input)
Enable the DVK using the tick box You have the option to selectively mute one audio input device depending on use case.

DXLog.net's built-in DVK will support up to seven different messages, played back with function keys [F1] through [F7].

The [Insert] and [+] or [Keypad Add] keys will play the message(s) defined by their corresponding CW macros for RUN and S&P.
In SO2R Advanced, also the [F*]-keys will play the message(s) defined by their corresponding CW macros.

Radio polling rate

The two Polling rate text boxes determine how often DXLog requests information from the radio over the CAT interface.
A good starting point is 300ms but this can be reduced for high speed interfaces (38.4kbps and above).
DXLog.net sends three poll requests per period, i.e. with a setting of 300ms, one poll request is sent every 100ms.
The polling rate is a trade off between reliability and user experience. A simple method to find a good rate is
to reduce it by 20% in steps until you start to experience issues with lost commands or erroneous
display of e.g. frequency. A good rate is then twice this number.

PTT

  • PTT lead delay determines the time between PTT activation and start of transmission
  • PTT tail delay determines the time between end of transmission and PTT deactivation
  • PTT seq delay determines the time between activation of the four available PTT signals: PTT, PTT1, PTT2, and PTT3.

Printer port configuration

To use a printer port (LPT), you must enable it by checking "Enabled" box in printer port group.
Additional data for printer port are configured by clicking Setup in printer port group.

Dxl printer port config.png

Radio configuration

If a COM port is configured as a radio interface, click on 'Setup' to open the Radio Setup form.
In addition to the generic settings, several radio specific options are available.

File:Radio setup form2.PNG

  • Radio: Select your radio model. If it is not in the list, feel free to contact the development team.
Note that many times a similar radio model can be successfully used. E.g. many Chinese QRP radios use the Kenwood protocol.
  • Speed: For best performance, use the highest available speed on your radio's CAT interface.
If there is an "Auto" speed setting, do not use it. It is strongly advised to use a virtual USB CAT port, if available.
Note that on modern ICOM radios it is necessary to "Unlink" the two CAT interfaces to achieve maximum speed.
  • Bits, Parity, Stop: Set according to the recommendations in your radio's documentation.
  • ICOM CI-V address (hex): This is by default set to the selected ICOM radio model's factory setting.
If you change the address in your radio's settings, this has to be set to the same value.
  • Use radio's internal voice keyer: Enables the use of the built-in digital voice keyer on
supported radio models (E.g. Elecraft, later ICOM, some Yaesu).
NB. If the PC sound card is enabled in the Port Configuration panel, this setting is ignored.
CAUTION: Due to limitations in the CAT command repertoire for some radios, DXLog may not be able
to accurately track the transmit/receive switching in the radio so if software lock-out is used
in a multi-radio setting, it may not be possible to use the radio's built in DVK.
Also, CQ Auto-repeat will not work.
  • Use CAT PTT command on PHONE: Uses a CAT command to switch between receive and transmit on phone, instead of a COM-port or LPT signal.
  • Use CAT PTT command on CW: Uses a CAT command to switch between receive and transmit on CW, instead of a COM-port or LPT signal.
  • Use ICOM CI-V "Transceive" mode (reduced polling): An ICOM specific feature where "CI-V Transceive"
must be enabled on radio.
Can offer an improved user experience at lower speeds (e.g. 19200bps) but comes with some limitations.
Some simple USB-to-serial adapters may suffer from CAT interface lock-up because of CI-V bus collisions
due to the large amount of data transferred.)
The recommended setting for modern ICOM radios is to have this feature disabled, an interface rate of 115200bps,
"CI-V Transceive" enabled in the radio's set up menu, and polling rate of 200ms. USB Echo Back should be off. (Important).
  • Use radio DATA mode for voice keyer playback: Switches the radio to data mode during voice keyer playback.
A valuable setting for radios that have a built-in sound card or can only use an external microphone input in data modes.
  • Always use radio DATA mode for any DIGI mode: If your radio has a DATA mode for RTTY/PSK/AFSK, checking this
option will force the DATA mode whenever a DIGI mode is selected.
  • Use transverter offsets: Opens up a configuration panel allowing setting per-band transverter offsets in kHz.
Transverteroffsets.png
  • Do not poll radio during TX: Stop polling radio (stop updating frequency, etc.) during transmit.
  • Reinitialize port after switching from TX to RX: Upon return to receive, reinitialize the COM port attached to that radio.

These last two options may be useful in cases where RF feedback are causing strange things to happen to a radio.
If these options seem to: clear up control problems, you may want to investigate adding bonding between the computer
and radio(s), and addition of ferrite suppression devices to cables.

Configure Antenna Server

Antserv.png

Interface specific options

  • Allow different TX/RX antenna
If checked this option allows different selection for TX and RX antenna with Operating->Antenna selection menu.
  • Use decoder freq correction
If checked and audio decoder is used in digi mode contest, audio frequency in decoder will be
added/decreased to cat frequency to get exact frequency for station.
  • Prevent TX if another radio on the same band
If checked the Transmitter connected to this DXlog.net will have it's TX disabled if another radio on the network is on the same band.
  • Use Split command in SO2V technique
If checked (and the technique selected is SO2V) DXLog will send the Split command to change the transmit VFO.
NB. This is only intended for dual receiver radios.
Select this if you e.g. are using an Elecraft K3 with subreceiver, ICOM IC-7610, or IC-7851 for SO2V.
  • Use different bandmap background for active radio
If checked, the background color of radio 1 or radio 2 bandmap will be changed when the radio becomes active.
NB: the color used in this mode needs to be selected by using the Colors menu in the bandmap right click menu.
By default it is set to the same color as the normal background.
  • Round frequency to nearest kHz when sending from macro
If checked, the frequency sent by the $FREQS, $FREQP, and $FREQnn macros will be rounded to the nearest kHz.
If not checked, the frequency is rounded to the nearest 100 Hz. An 'R' is sent between the kHz and 100 Hz digits.
  • Radio 1 transverter offset / Radio 2 transverter offset
Checking either of these selections will open a form that allows you to enter the frequency offset of (usually)
the VHF/UHF transverter. Frequency displays will be offset by this value, which can be positive or negative.
Note: the resulting frequency must be a frequency in a valid band as defined in the contest configuration.
  • Automatically open/close digital window on mode change
If checked, the digital window for the active radio will be opened when a digital mode is selected.
If a non-digital mode is selected and the digital window is open, it will be closed. Note that the
contest configuration must allow both digital and non-digital modes in the same time period (mixed mode).
The digital window must be configured properly in the RTTY configuration form.
  • Sync radio 1/2 freq & mode
If checked, synchronizes the frequency and mode of physical radio 1 and 2. Does not synchronize VFO in SO2V.
This option requires radio auto reporting (e.g. ICOM "Transceive") to be disabled or oscillation will occur.
  • Select first available antenna on band change
If checked, selects the first available antenna on band change.

RTTY configuration

Settings for RTTY decoder types and paths to decoders

Rtty conf1.png

Upto 2 decoders can be utilised per audio channel (radio), set the path to each decoder, decoders must be in different folders on the PC hard disk.

  • MMVARI Multimode - For MMVARI select MMVARI from the radio buttons.
  • GRITTY RTTY Decoder - To use VE3NEA's GRITTY decoder then select the tickbox, GRITTY must be installed and running, GRITTY uses it's own decode window, simply click on the callsign required in the GRITTY decode screen and it will be transfered to DXLog callsign input line.

Set the radio buttons for the correct RTTY decoder engine
Set the paths to the relevant RTTY decoder engines
Set tick box options as appropriate for your operation.

MK2R/MK2R+/u2R configuration

Settings for integration with microHAM keyers and SO2R controllers

File:Mk2r-new5.png


  • Enable microHAM keyer DVK
Enables the use of the microHAM keyer's DVK instead of DXLog's built in DVK.
Usable for microHAM DKII, MKII, MKIII, MK2R, MK2R+, and u2R.
  • Footswitch is PTT
Enables the use of the microHAM keyer's footswitch input for PTT.
No longer optional as of version 2.4.17.
  • Enable TX lock/unlock
Enables control of the hardware transmit locking/unlocking built into the keyer.
This means that DXLog interlock will act on all possible means of transmission: PTT, Footswitch, and paddle.
With this option checked, keyer PTT, Winkey BKIN, and Footswitch status are recognized by DXLog and available for e.g. scripting.
  • Enable SW PTT
Enables the use of software PTT. With this enabled, DXLog will control the keyer's software PTT via the control interface.
Can replace COM-port PTT.
  • Dual radio keyer
Selects single or dual radio microHAM keyer.
Should be checked for dual radio keyers such as microHAM MK2R, MK2R+, and u2R.
Should be unchecked for single radio keyers such as microHAM DK and MK, regardless of model.
  • Radio 1 RX, Radio 1 TX, Radio 2 RX, and Radio 2 TX tabs
Each tab defines an rule for the two 4-bit BCD outputs on the ACC connector on the back side of the MK2R, MK2R+, or u2R.
NB. This means only one box can be checked per row.
The location of the checked box is translated into a 4 bit binary pattern.
Check mark location number 1 means 0000, 2 = 0001, ... 12 = 1010, 13 = 1100, 14 = 1101, 15 = 1110, and 16 means 1111.
Please refer to the latest microHAM documentation for possible changes due to new firmware releases.
The two ACC outputs are typically used for antenna or PA band selection but can have other uses too.
The 60m band has been added in a release so if not visible, clicking RESET will make it appear.
NB. To enable the use of different RX and TX antennas, the option Options|Interface specific options|Allow different TX/RX antenna must be checked.
The keyer's respective ACC outputs must also be configured for microHAM protocol control.
This is done in the ACC tab in the microHAM's Device Router set up as shown below.
Microhamrouteracc.png

OTRSP device pin Setup

OTRSP pin setup window.

The 60m band has been added after the original release. If you do not see it, click RESET.

File:OTRSP Setup.png

Winkey Configuration

Configure the WinKey properties
Text command : WKSETUP or WKEY

Winkeyconfig2.png

NB. If you are using a microHAM keyer, the below settings will have effect if
the "Allow logger control" option is enabled on the USB device router's CW/Winkey tab.

  • Keying mode:
    • Iambic A - Curtis A iambic timing
    • Iambic B - Curtis B iambic timing
    • Ultimatic - Non iambic mode
    • Dit
    • Dah
    • Bug (semi-automatic) - WinKey makes the dits and you make the dahs. Vibroplex style.
In either iambic mode, alternating dits and dahs are sent while both paddles are held closed.
In Iambic mode B, an extra alternate dit or dah is sent after both paddles are released.
In Ultimatic mode, when both paddles are pressed, the keyer will send a continuous stream of whichever paddle was last pressed.
  • Second Output (pin 5) (Not available on all WinKey products but useful for e.g. the WKmini to get keying right.)
  • Reverse - Reverses the dit/dah paddles (e.g. for keying with the left hand)
  • Autospace - If you pause for more than one dit time between a dit or dah, Winkey will interpret this as a letter-space and will not send the next dit or dah until a full letter-space time (3 dits) has passed
  • PTT - Enable PTT control from Winkey. Preferrably disabled on WKmini.
  • Sidetone - Sets or disables the sidetone frequency on keyers with speaker
  • Weight - Controls the weight of the transmitted CW. A setting of 50 means normal CW.
  • Use two Outputs - WinKey pin 5 keys a second radio. Enable with WKmini to key tip of connector.
  • Pot controls
    • Nothing: Winkey speed knob/potentiometer has no action
    • Paddle only: Winkey speed knob affects only paddle CW speed (Recommended)
    • Paddle and DXLog : Winkey speed knob changes both DXLog.net and paddle CW speed
  • Min Speed: Speed with potentiometer at minimum
  • Max Speed: Speed with potentiometer at maximum
  • Two wire: Makes the Winkey assume it is controlled by a 2-wire potentiometer. Rarely used.

MP3 Configuration


File:Mp3config.png

Rotator Configuration

DXLog supports rotator control using UDP communications to PSTRotator by YO3DMU and the EA4TX rotator controller. Configuration steps are as follows:

File:PSTRotator DXLog config2.png

Check the "Enable Rotator communication" box at the top of the form.

Enter the required data in each column. Use the Add, Edit, and Delete buttons as required. Here are descriptions of each column:

  • Band
Value in meters for which this rotator is active.
  • Ant #
The number of the antenna for this band turned by this rotator, beginning at 1. Antennas are numbered in the order shown on the Radio/Ant Status Window.
  • IP Address
If you are running PSTRotator or EA4TX on the same machine as DXLog, enter 127.0.0.1. Otherwise enter the IP address of the rotator control server.
  • Port
The UDP port used to communicate with the rotator interface. Normally PSTRotator uses
12040 for the first rotator, 12041 for the second, etc. However, any port that is free can be used.
Write down the ports used as they are needed for PSTRotator or EA4TX configuration.
  • Send freq
Check this box if you need the radio frequency to be sent to PSTRotator.

Select the rotator software type from the drop down list, currently either PSTrotator or EA4TX

When completed, press OK.

To configure PSTRotator, you may need to refer to the PSTRotator manual. Here are the basic steps:

From the PSTRotator menu bar, Select Setup -> Trackers Setup -> DXLog.net/UR5EQF/LogHX Setup... The Setup form will be displayed:

Rotator tracker setup DXLog.png

Enter the port number used for this rotator in the Ethernet box. Select 'Azimuth' in the "Tracking by" box. Click Save Settings.

Select Tracker -> DXLog.net from the PSTRotator menu bar.

In the main display, select 'Tracking' from the Mode box. Depending on the view you have selected, you may need to select
View -> Full View to see the Mode box. The following shows the location of the Mode box in PSTRotator:

PSTRotator tracking mode.png

If you have more than one rotator, repeat the steps on each instance of PSTRotator, using the appropriate UDP Port number.
See the PSTRotator documentation to enable multiple instances of PSTRotator.

Once you have everything configured, return to DXLog. Ensure you are on the appropriate band (and the proper antenna selected).
Enter a callsign or an azimuth value into the callsign field. Press Ctrl-F12. DXLog will show the value sent on the status line,<br< and PSTRotator will (hopefully) rotate to the selected azimuth.

Enter a callsign and press [Alt][F12]. Rotator will turn to the long path azimuth.

This completes Rotator configuration.

Configure network

This form allows configuration of network addresses and identification.

Text command: NETCONFIG

  • Station ID
The name/identity of the station used in DXLog.net networking.
The name is used for e.g. software interlock and gab messaging.
It is recommended to use explanatory station names such as "SK3W-INBAND", "LZ5R-RUN1", etc.
  • UDP network broadcast for multiple stations (checkbox)
    Enables UDB based networking. DXLog.net can use both broadcast-based UDP networking and client-server based networking.
    • UDP network parameters
      IP address and port information for UDP networking. The Default button will enter the DXLog.net default parameters.
  • Start server (checkbox)
    Enables client-server based networking with this station as server.
    Only one server is allowed on the network. All other stations must have this box checked.
    • Server parameters
      IP address and port information for the multi station server.
  • Connect as client (checkbox)
    Enables client-server based networking with this station as a client.
    • Client parameters
      IP address and port information for the client.
  • Live score UDP broadcast
IP and Port for broadcast of Live Score info.
  • DXC spots UDP broadcast
IP and port for broadcast of DX Cluster spot information. Up to three port numbers can be specified, separated by space.
For more information, see UDP Broadcast
  • Radio UDP broadcast
IP and port for broadcast of radio information. Up to three port numbers can be specified, separated by space.
For more information, see UDP Broadcast
  • Direction UDP broadcast
IP and port for broadcast of antenna direction information. Up to three port numbers can be specified, separated by space.
For more information, see UDP Broadcast
  • QSOs UDP broadcast
IP and port for broadcast of logged QSO information. Up to three port numbers can be specified, separated by space.
For more information, see UDP Broadcast
  • UDP broadcast listener
IP and port for listening to commands via UDP. Up to three port numbers can be specified, separated by space.
For more information, see UDP Broadcast
  • Other parameters
  • Network timeout (sec): timeout value for network connections.
  • Start time sync (checkbox)
Enable time syncing between stations.
  • Start number server (checkbox)
Enable the serial number server (which allows reservation of serial numbers per station), for contests that require multiple stations to use the same sequential number series.
ONLY ONE STATION PER NETWORK SHOULD BE USED AS THE NUMBER SERVER (Usually the main run station)
Note: to enable the usage of the number server on other stations, Options -> Networking -> Use number server must be enabled for all stations needing sequential serial numbers
(Not used on support stations as these stations do not log).

Network is enabled

Enable or disable station networking
Text command: NETON or NET and NETOFF or NONET

Neton.png

Networking


File:Options networking menu.png


  • Synchronize CW messages
Force the CW/Digi messages on this station onto all other stations.
  • Don't log QSO on this PC
When checked, QSO cannot be added to the log at this PC.
Instead, the callsign entered into the log entry callsign field will be added to the bandmap and the log entry callsign field will be cleared.
This option is usually used for Partner mode or operator training.
  • Software interlock
Text command: ILOCK and NOILOCK enables interlock
Text command: ILOCKON and ILOCKOFF disables interlock
Note: ILOCK and ILOCKON will open Interlock configuration panel when interlock is disabled.


Interlock options.png


When this option is checked, software interlock is active.
Transmit is only possible if the other networked DXlog.net station's with network id selected during interlock activation is not transmitting.
Current blocking status is visible in Radio/Ant status window.
Interlock scenario depends on Interlock option selected.
IMPORTANT NOTE: DUE TO A NOT YET IDENTIFIED DEFECT, SILENT MESSAGES (E.G. "SENDING" A MESSAGE WITH ONLY "$CR") MAY CAUSE LOCKUPS
  • Interlock options
These options are effective when software interlock is activated.
 First one wins
The First station to request a TX block via the network is able to Transmit.
All other stations have to wait for the Transmitting station to stop transmitting and for the local DXlog.net to receive the TX unblock message via the network before able to request transmission.
 Last one wins
The station most recent to request TX block will transmit, but only when the unblocking request is successful.
If your station is blocked by another, your DXlog.net will send a unblock request to the blocking station via the network. Only after your station receives the unblock confirmation from the blocking station a block request is sent to all other stations. Not until your station receives confirmation of a successful block request from the other networked stations, your station will be allowed to transmit.
 Last one wins if msg not or Last one wins if msg is
These two options operate in the same way as the Last one wins option, but they must meet the additional condition defined in If msg is/not selection option.
For example: If the Last one wins if msg is option is selected and the F1 submenu option in If msg is/not selection menu is checked. If your station is blocked by another station in the network sending the F1 message (this typically means that the other station is calling CQ), your station can request an unblock from that station. Since it is sending F1, this request will be granted and you will be allowed to transmit. If your station is blocked by any other message than F1, your unblock request will be denied and your station will have to wait for the blocking station to complete its transmission
If msg is/not selection options are: F1-F7, INS, PLUS, KEYB, MAN Message selections for conditional Last one wins interlock scenarios. F1-F7, INS, PLUS are standard messages. KEYB - TX in keyboard mode. MAN - manual TX request (Typically Footswitch).
  • Computer DB9 Serial port footswitch information
Important: For the software interlock to work in SSB mode, each stations foot switch must be
connected to that stations DXlog.net PC serial port using the following connections:
 Connect a 10k resistor between DB9 pin 6 and pin 7.
 In Options|Configure interfaces settings, set DTR (pin 4) to "Always On" and RTS (pin 7) to "Always Off" for the port.
 Connect the footswitch between DB9 pins 4 and pin 6.
 Neither pole on the footswitch must be connected to ground. 
 In the radio's configuration panel, check use CAT PTT command on Phone and set Foot switch (pin 6) to PTT
K3 settings2.png
  • Use number server
This option, when selected, enables the number server, for all networked PC's to use as the serial number sequential manager.
Only 1 DXLog on the network can be the number server, all other DXLog must have this option unchecked.
When checked, the DXlog.net number server will be used to determine/reserve the next sequential serial number.
This option is used mainly for multi operator stations when serial numbers from all stations must be
in chronological sequence, such as CQWW WPX M/S Category.

Options|Networking|Use Number Server must be checked on all stations on the network that require
the use of serial numbers (Logging stations but not support non logging stations)
With Tools|Data entry|Spacebar reserves serial number set, number reservation from the server is made when
the spacebar is pressed in the log callsign entry field.
If successful, the user will be notified in the main status window that the number has been reserved,
and the serial number will change colour (Default red)
If a number is reserved but the QSO is not made, number reservation will be cancelled by the Wipe QSO command ([Alt][W] or F11 shortcuts).

Note: if you are using the number server on a single computer (for SO2R) you do not need to enable
the server/client selections. Ensure that the "Start server" and "Connect as client" checkboxes
are not selected. Simply check the "Start number server" box on the Configure Network
form and ensure that "UDP network broadcast" is enabled and configured with the broadcast address
for your computer's particular network setup. Selecting the "Default" button will calculate the
proper broadcast address for you.
  • Don't allow QSO logging if number isn't reserved
When using the serial number server, QSO logging will be prevented if a serial number is not reserved from the number server.
Also, when the number server is used and the reservation process has started, DXLog.net will show the active QSO NR as 000 until the new
reserved number is successfully received or the reservation is canceled.
  • Don't allow QSO logging if band change rule is broken
Only relevant when 10 min band change rule is used in a contest (E.g. CQWW M/2 category)
When operating a contest in a Multi transceiver environment, this option will prevent the contest
band change rule being broken by stopping the mult station logging a QSO if the band change quantity has been exceeded.
  • Show different active QSO line colour during wait status
Only relevant when 10 min band change rule is used in a contest (E.g. CQWW M/2 category)
When operating a contest in a Multi transceiver environment, this option will change the color of
the active log so entry line when the band change rule is violated.
 E.G. You make QSO on the mult radio on 40m band at 00:00Z..
 In that case, you have to stay with mult station on 40m until 00:10Z when you are then allowed 
 to QSY to other band with the mult station.
 If you do it earlier, or you have multiple mult stations, each of them will see the QSO line in 
 a different color until the 10 minutes has expired. By default the colour is red, until last 
 minute when it changes to yellow... and after that it reverts back to the normal background
 color of the logging screen.
 
 In multi/single environment it is very useful for each operator to see if a QSO is allowed on 
 that band or not. It's easy, you just have to look at the screen, and if the log entry line is 
 red in color, you are not allowed to make a QSO. There are also timers visible in Status
 window, when a QSY is allowed.
  • Don't allow QSO logging if operator isn't logged
If checked, logging is blocked if there is no logged on operator.
Please note that this does not prevent logging after switching operator if previous operator logged on.
  • Show QSY notification in QSY Wizard
If checked, QSY notification will be shown in the QSY Wizard window.
  • Use optimistic interlock blocking method
Applies to software interlock. If a "blocking allowed" confirmation is not received from all
stations requested before timeout, assume that all relevant stations are blocked and start transmission.

DX Cluster

Dx Cluster telnet settings and options

File:Dxclustermenu3.PNG

  • Spot handling policy
Introduced in version 2.4.3. Controls how incoming spots (local and cluster) are handled.
This menu option is only available with an active log.
Three options are available:
Standard - The normal setting that only keeps one copy per band and mode of each spot.
However, also erases all spots less than half a spot bandwidth (as set in bandmap properties) away from a new spot.
This will provide a sparser spot view with only the most recent spots visible and never more than one spot per frequency.
Preferably used with a narrow spot bandwidth.
Pro: With this policy enabled, spots will never overlap and spot jump-grabbing with Ctrl-Up/Down will work well.
Con: In Run you will not be warned if a station in your skip zone is calling CQ on your frequency.
Con: In a busy, global contest, the band map content can be somewhat volatile.
Prior to release 2.4.3 this option was called "Bandmap type: Standard".
Complete - A more forgiving setting that also only keeps one copy per band and mode of each spot.
Erases no spots with the exception of previously worked spots less than half a spot bandwidth (as set in bandmap properties) away from a new spot, to reduce clutter.
Preferably used with a shorter setting of "Spot lifetime".
Pro: Provides a complete picture with no risk of missing valuable spots.
Con: Can result in multiple spots on the same frequency, making spot jump-grabbing with Ctrl-Up/Down work less well.
Prior to release 2.4.3, this policy was called "Bandmap type: Inband"..
None - All spots are kept. Mostly for testing purposes since it will result in an increasingly cluttered bandmap.
Resembles "Bandmap type: Multiplier" option prior to release 2.4.3.
  • Edit connection list
Add/remove/edit DX Cluster information.
DXC list.png

To set a default DX cluster connection, select the connection from the list and click the Default button.
When editing or adding a new connection, give the connection a meaningful name and enter the address, either an IP address or a domain name plus the access port for the telnet connection.


DXC def.png

The DX Cluster connection list can also be bulk edited by loading the file dxclist.txt in a text editor like Notepad++.
The dxclist.txt file is stored in C:\Program Files (x86)\DXLog.net\Database and should be overwritten with the latest file available.
DXLog will automatically use this latest file upon running after the file has been updated.
The dxclist.txt file is formatted as follows:
Display Name=internet_address;port_no;Login_Required_(Yes/No);;
E.g.:
W9PA - No Skimmer=dxc.w9pa.net;23;YES;;
*W9PA=dxc.w9pa.net;7373;YES;;
W9PA - FT8 Only=dxc.w9pa.net;7374;YES;;
A leading Asterisk "*" before the display name marks the default connection.
  • Reconnect default DXC at start
Auto connect to DX Cluster on loading or creating a new log.
  • Show talk messages from DXC in GAB window
Cluster talk messages will be shown in the GAB window.
  • Default comment
A default comment when submitting spots to the cluster with e.g. Alt-F3
This menu option is only available with an active log.
  • Send spots to SmartSDR
Sends spots via UDP broadcast for display in SmartSDR waterfall/bandmap.

HamCAP


Hamcap options.png

Hamcap and VOACAP must be installed for these options.

 Download HAMcap from http://www.dxatlas.com/Download.asp and install
 Download VOACAP from this web site: http://www.greg-hand.com and install

HAMcap is a HF propagation prediction tool and is useful for contest strategy and watching for possible openings for multipliers. VOCAP works in the background supplying HAMcap with the data it requires.

HAMcap options are:-

  • In background - this runs HAMcap in the background of DXlog.net
  • Tab - use this option to set which TAB of HAMcap is displayed when called by DXlog.net CTRL-P command.

To enable automatic HAMcap prediction by pressing SPACEBAR go to Options-> Networking-> Show QSY notification in QSY Wizard menu.
This option will work after you insert a call-sign in call field and spacebar is pressed.

Data files

This menu is used to update the SCP and Country files from the internet and set Extra
info and exchange guessing data base options.


Options data files menu.png


It is recommended to update the Country Files and SCP database before every contest

  • Country files
Text command: CTYFILES or COUNTRYFILES
Opens the panel below:


Dxl country files.png


Allows you to choose which of the country files you will use for calculation of DXCC, CQ zone,
ITU zone etc. in the currently active contest.
CTY_WT_MOD.DAT will typically provide you with the most accurate information.
Click on Download to update selected country file from the internet and click OK.
After clicking OK, DXLog.net will ask you to reload the currently active log in order to
refresh all calculations. This can easily be done using the text command RELOADNOW.


  • Super check partials | Update
Downloads the latest version of the super check partials MASTER.SCP database.
On successful download and update you will be asked to restart DXlog.net, which
is easily done with the text command RELOADNOW.


Master.png


  • Update database
Updates your local prefill database with information from the currently opened log.
Missing information will be added and prefill data that was modified will be changed.
Please note that all comments in the original data base file (lines starting with # or !) will be lost in this process.
All three types of databases, TXT, CSV, and DTB" can be updated.


  • Extra info plugins | HamQTH
Enable or Disable, If enabled, a valid Username and Password must be set in the configuration panel.


File:HAMqth conf.png


  • Prefill database settings


Prefill database settings2.png


One or more prefill database(s) may be configured using this panel.
All information entered here will override the default database settings in the contest configuration.
To configure the use of a database file, click Browse and select the database file. Select the database
file type using the pull down menu.
Standard DXLog.net prefill database files are type TXT. N1MM Logger+ database files are type CSV, and
WinTest database files are type DTB. Be careful to chose the correct file type.
TXT and CSV files typically have a .TXT filename ending. DTB files typically have a .DTB filename ending.
DXLog.net supports up to four contest exchange elements. Their name, from left to right, are RCVD, RECINFO, RECINFO2, and RECINFO3.
You map an information element in a prefill data base to an exchange element by specifying its number.
The first information element following the callsign is number 1, the next is number 2, and so on.


The line format in a DXLog.net prefill data base file is: callsign=information1;information2;information3;information4
The line format in a N1MM Logger+ prefill data base file is: callsign,information1,information2,information3,information4
The format for a standard Win-Test prefill data base file is binary and not possible to easily edit or view.


To not update an exchange element from the database file, set it to -1. This can be relevant in the case of having several data base files,
each contributing to individual exchange elements. For example, one data base file for grid locator and another for operator name.
In the example above the first exchange element (name) is collected from information element number 1 in the CWOps data basefile,
whereas the second exchange element (state) is collected from information element number 2 in the NAQP database.
The Fill format text box allows you to optionally specify special formatting of the looked up prefill information,
using C# string formatting syntax. For example, to append a slash to the prefill, the fill format would be {0}/.
Note that the argument {0} is of the type string which means that numerical operations, such as zero padding, will not work.
Exchange elements not used in the current contest (most only have one) are ignored and can be safely left as zero.

Statistics files

Allows the creation and saving of statistics.

Statistics menu.png

DXCC: Statistics related to DXCC.

Create multiplier statistics: Enable creation of DXCC multiplier statistics during the contest.

Save multiplier statistics in file: Enable saving the DXCC multiplier statistics in a file. The file format is SQLite (.sdb).

Import expected mult list from log file: Import expected mults from a previous contest log (*.dxn) file.

Clear expected mult list: Clear the expected DXCC multiplier list.

Log

Log display options

File:Options log menu 2.png

  • Fonts - Increase or decrease the size of the log font.

  • Headers - Enable or disable log column headers.

  • Hide QSO numbers - Hide QSO numbers from Log, Useful in contests where serial numbers are not required to be sent.

  • Always show mode in QSO line - Show or hide mode in Log, enable for multimode contests.

  • Show date in QSO lines - Show date in QSO lines. This data is read only in the log line.

  • Show frequency in QSO lines - Show the actual frequency in the log line in addition to the band.

  • Show operator name in QSO lines - Show the currently logged on operator name in the QSO lines.

  • Colors - Edit log background and text colors.

  • SO2R/V view type - Options to select how to display the two entry lines for SO2R/V.
   Classic: show entry lines one above the other, R1 above R2.
   Side by side: show entry lines with R1 on the left, R2 on the right.
   Separate window: show entry lines for each radio in a separate window.
  • Stay in field when moving up and down log - When editing log this option keeps the cursor in the same log field when moving up through the QSO's.

  • In SO2R(V) use different background color - Use a different background color in Radio 2 (VFO 2) entry line. Color must be set in the Log -> Colors menu.' menu.

  • Show prev / current messages - Show cw message as it is being sent below the entry line, previous message above the log line.

  • Show RX color status - Change the entry line background when radio is active in RX (connected to headphones). Color must be set in the Log -> Colors menu.

  • Show border on TX - Display a border around the entry line of the transmitting radio. Color must be set in the Log -> Colors menu.

  • Show RX wait border - Display a border around the entry line of the radio being held in wait status. Color must be set in the Log -> Colors menu.

Windows

There are two different ways that DXLog.net handles the opening of information windows.

   Included in the main window: All windows are opened inside the main window.
   Floating: Enable to use multiple monitors. All windows will be opened outside of the main window and can be moved as needed.

Toolbar

Enable or Disable DXlog.net toolbar

Toolbar.png

Reset window positions

This option brings all windows back to the upper left corner of the screen, useful if a window has been lost off the screen when changing resolution or in a multi screen environment.