[Wyndell Ferguson]

I get asked this a lot, so here is some information from my web page (https://www.k5wjf.com/software-for-hams/)

HAM SOFTWARE
There are other similar programs available, but these are the ones I like, use and recommend.

GET YOUR WINDOWS COMPUTER READY

Windows.net Runtime
Many programs (JTALERT for example.) require dotnet runtime

USB Drivers for ICOM IC-7300
Run before installation of other software and cables to computer disconnected.

Virtual Serial Port Software
(VSPE)
Needed to have more than 1 comm port and use more than 1 program. CV-I cable and USB cable required.
I use since its easier to install and get working than some similar products.
32 bit version is Free, 64 bit version $24.95
For FT8 and other digital modes, your computer clock must be spot on, under 2 sec difference between you and world. I useMeinberg NTP its a set it and ferget it updater that works in the background.

GET YOUR ICOM 7300 READY

Firmware Updates
follow instructions on ICOM Japan website.

SOFTWARE TO MAKE LIFE EASIER AND ADD TO YOUR HAM EXPERIENCE

N3FJP’s AMATEUR CONTACT LOG – Station Log
Very easy to use and get running.
ACLog only is $34.95 with lifetime updates.
All of their N3FJP software packages $59.99 with lifetime updates.

WIN4ICOMSUITE – ICOM 7300 Interfacing Software
Adds some nice features AND is on your computer screen which makes all the features easier to interact with.
$60 after free 30 day trial, lifetime updates.
WSJT-X – Digital Mode Software
Has the major digital modes
Free
JTALERT – WSJT-X add on
adds alerting and other features that wsjt-x needs
Free
GRIDTRACKER – tracks QSOs locations and many other features.
Free
QSO CREATOR – Sends customized QSL card via email.
$50 for lifetime updates + 1 QSL Card design.

My Current Card:

The hardest part is getting all the software to work together. Once thats done it can make life very easy.
I don’t get anything from the software companies, Im just a very satisfied user.

[Steven Smith]

Wyndell

Great information for many of our members and fellow Amateurs reading the mail here outside of our club.

I use a few other tools as well as some you mentioned.

DXLab Suite
https://www.dxlabsuite.com/
I use it for my Daily Logging toolset.

N1MM+ Logger
https://n1mmwp.hamdocs.com/n1mm-logger-documentation/manual-at-a-glance/

I use N1MM+ for all of my Contesting work
Most dedicated Contest Ops use either N1MM+ or WinTest
However, it seems every club using N3FJP’s toolset for ARRL FD

Club Log
https://clublog.org/

Club Log is used to search and help me analyze my DXCC activity and Awards
It is a fantastic tool for mining Data and can help DX Ops spot over looked information quickly.

ARRL LOTW (Log Book of  The World)

https://lotw.arrl.org/lotw-help/
I use LOTW Dailey and have over 44 Thousand QSL via ARRL LOTW
It is free to use even for non ARRL members.
However, to receive awards, such as WAS (Worked All States) and DXCC Award Certificates one must be an ARRL Member.

We also use many other software tools
Such as EzNEC, & WinLink to name just a couple.

Cheers!
Steve KG5VK

[Author]

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