DXLab Suite Software
for Amateur Radio
DXLab Suite by AA6YQ
My experience with computer-based logging and shack management goes back to some of the earliest DOS packages, and has included at least 4 (commercial and free) products. Each product, however, presented some frustration that kept me in the hunt for something "better".
"Better", of course, is a relative term. Taste in software is as variable as preferences in entertainment, friends, weather, or rigs. In my case, I wanted software that was intuitive enough so I didn't need to consult the manual every time I wanted to do something beyond entering a contact. Too often, however, the software required more focus than the act of making contacts. The user interface was not intuitive. QSL management was lacking. Or support was terse.
I stumbled into DXLab back in 2001 and was a bit skeptical at first. If it had been another $80 product I would have passed, but since it was free.....
DXLab ran alongside my "default" logging program for a couple of weeks. It quickly became my favorite and the other product was deleted.
Incremental improvements have refined and expanded this suite's capabilities, with many of the advances coming at the suggestion of users. The user discussion group is positive and helpful. Updates are optional and painless.
Why do I like it so much? I can load and run only the components I need. Each component automatically detects and communicates with other components. Operation is incredibly intuitive. For the first time since employing logging and shack management software, I find that the software is functioning as an seamless accessory instead of being my primary focus...my attention is back on the rig, the pileup, and the act of communicating.
I make my living in a job that involves providing service and information to clients, so I pay a lot of attention to how others perform in their own service roles. I'm happy to report that the quality of service and support is consistent with the software. Dave, AA6YQ, is superb in his dual role of developer and provider of service.
One of my favorite features is the smooth interfacing with ARRL's Logbook of the World (LoTW). After uploading 935 CQWW 160 SSB contest QSO's to LoTW, I had over 200 confirmations from other contest operators within 48 hours. I've achieved WAS and DXCC based on LoTW confirmations.
If you're looking for a "better" logging and shack management product, give DXLab a try. You'll find details and downloads at http://www.dxlabsuite.com
It should be noted that both ACLog and N1MM contest logs are easily imported into DXLab and I am able to upload Field Day or contest QSO's within a few hours of the event.
My experience with computer-based logging and shack management goes back to some of the earliest DOS packages, and has included at least 4 (commercial and free) products. Each product, however, presented some frustration that kept me in the hunt for something "better".
"Better", of course, is a relative term. Taste in software is as variable as preferences in entertainment, friends, weather, or rigs. In my case, I wanted software that was intuitive enough so I didn't need to consult the manual every time I wanted to do something beyond entering a contact. Too often, however, the software required more focus than the act of making contacts. The user interface was not intuitive. QSL management was lacking. Or support was terse.
I stumbled into DXLab back in 2001 and was a bit skeptical at first. If it had been another $80 product I would have passed, but since it was free.....
DXLab ran alongside my "default" logging program for a couple of weeks. It quickly became my favorite and the other product was deleted.
Incremental improvements have refined and expanded this suite's capabilities, with many of the advances coming at the suggestion of users. The user discussion group is positive and helpful. Updates are optional and painless.
Why do I like it so much? I can load and run only the components I need. Each component automatically detects and communicates with other components. Operation is incredibly intuitive. For the first time since employing logging and shack management software, I find that the software is functioning as an seamless accessory instead of being my primary focus...my attention is back on the rig, the pileup, and the act of communicating.
I make my living in a job that involves providing service and information to clients, so I pay a lot of attention to how others perform in their own service roles. I'm happy to report that the quality of service and support is consistent with the software. Dave, AA6YQ, is superb in his dual role of developer and provider of service.
One of my favorite features is the smooth interfacing with ARRL's Logbook of the World (LoTW). After uploading 935 CQWW 160 SSB contest QSO's to LoTW, I had over 200 confirmations from other contest operators within 48 hours. I've achieved WAS and DXCC based on LoTW confirmations.
If you're looking for a "better" logging and shack management product, give DXLab a try. You'll find details and downloads at http://www.dxlabsuite.com
It should be noted that both ACLog and N1MM contest logs are easily imported into DXLab and I am able to upload Field Day or contest QSO's within a few hours of the event.