AC Log

My first logging program was HyperLog, and I started using it sometime around 1991. I had the task of getting my paper logs from as far back as 1974 entered into it, and it took about a year to do. I ran that until 2009, when I decided I needed an ADIF compatable logger. I had to convert the old dBase format of HyperLog to an ADIF format, and import it into AClog. Problem was, almost no logging program I liked could make the conversion, so the search for a converter began...

I found a neat utility by NF4L for Hyperlog verions 3.xx that worked pretty good. I had a little cleanup to do, but it took care of several thousand logbook conversions with relative ease. Sure beat having to re-enter everything manually! You can download the utility directly from my site by clicking HERE. Again, this was for Ver 3.xx . I have since found a load of log converters at http://www.dxzone.com/catalog/Software/Log_Converters/ that might also help with this. Anyway, once the conversion to ADIF was completed, I moved on to selecting a new logging program...

After a good amount of research, I settled on ACLog. You can find it at http://www.n3fjp.com/. I _really_ love this program. It has a built-in DXCluster connection, and loads of features. It's easy to use, interfaces directly with LOTW & eQSL, and is very 'user configurable'.

AC Log DXCluster

AC Log has built-in DX Cluster connectivity, and is very easy to configure. I have mine connected to http://www.DXSPOTS.com and get DX spots on the fly. Spots show up on the DXCluster page, and in an actual 'DX spots' window in the ACLog main screen.

AC Log Awards Tracker

N3FJP's ACLog program for logging, David Treat W5DJT has developed and improved his ACLog Awards Tracker program. It has the ability to crawl through your entire ACLog logbook file, locate various info for all sorts of awards, and export the files needed for submission. David has also improved the ACLog search function to allow for better filtering of search parameters. You can get David W5DJT's "ACLog Awards Tracker" program from his site at http://www.w5djt.com for free!!

Logging Position @ WB4IUY

I have my logging computer set up as being in a central point in the primary operating position. After a good bit of experimentation over several years, I settled on the current layout. It allows me to easily reach all of the radio features, keyboard & mouse, antenna/radio switching, and amplifier controls. I use an old keyboard from a _really old_ Compaq laptop...it is small, and doesn't take up much space on the table.

Logging Computer @ WB4IUY

The logging computer here at WB4IUY is homebrew. It uses a generic case, 300w power supply, 80gig HD, has multiple USB ports, conventional serial ports, 4 gig ram, and a 3ghz processor. The metal case is grounded to the shack's central grounding system, and has all I/O passing through ferrite snap-on cores for noise suppression. It does a great job, and is full-time backed by a UPS.

Why log??

When I first got my ticket, back in 1974, logging of all contacts was required by the FCC. I got into the habit, and over the years, learned of many positive aspects of continuing to do so. By having all of my contacts on the system, I often bump into people around the world whom I've been in contact with previously. It makes for neat conversation when I can say things like "are you still running that xxx rig" or "we last talked on March 19th of 1983". Additionally, the contacts are good for QSLing, which I enjoy quite a bit. You can see a pic of some of my 'wallpaper' here, or visit the 'QSLs' and 'Awards' sections of my site from the menu at the top of the page.