We’re on Brandmeister talk group 3126 statewide Michigan for the DMR Tech Net on Monday, March 25th from 7:30pm ET – 8:30pm ET.
Join us as we discuss logging your DMR contacts, the programs you use, and others that are available.
Steve KC8WXM will go over using NetLogger.
Join us as we demystify and have fun with DMR (Digital Mobile Radio) every Monday night!
Popular features in ham radio logging programs often include:
- Easy Data Entry: Intuitive interfaces for entering QSO data quickly and accurately, including keyboard shortcuts and customizable fields.
- Support for Multiple Modes: Flexibility to log contacts made in various modes such as SSB, CW, FM, AM, and digital modes like FT8, RTTY, PSK31, and DMR.
- QSL Management: Tools for managing QSL cards, including tracking sent and received QSLs, generating QSL labels, and interfacing with online QSL services like Logbook of the World (LoTW) and eQSL.
- Rig Control Integration: Integration with radio equipment for frequency and mode tracking, allowing users to control their transceiver from within the logging program and vice versa.
- Call Sign Lookup: Integration with online databases or services to automatically populate contact details based on callsigns entered, providing information such as operator name, location, and previous QSOs.
- Award Tracking: Tools for tracking progress towards various amateur radio awards and certificates, such as DXCC, WAS, WAC, and IOTA.
- Customizable Fields: Ability to customize logging fields to accommodate specific needs or preferences, such as adding fields for antenna used, power level, or propagation conditions.
- Data Import/Export: Support for importing and exporting log data in standard formats like ADIF (Amateur Data Interchange Format) for interoperability with other logging programs and online services.
- Backup and Restore: Built-in mechanisms for backing up and restoring log data to prevent loss in case of system failure or accidental deletion.
- Reporting and Statistics: Tools for generating reports and statistics based on logged data, such as band usage, mode distribution, and contact maps.
- Logging Reminders and Alerts: Reminders and alerts for important events such as upcoming contests, special event stations, or needed grid squares for awards.
- Integration with Online Services: Integration with online logging services, DX clusters, and other web-based resources for real-time spotting and logging assistance.
- Map Integration: Mapping features to visualize contact locations, propagation paths, and grid squares, either within the logging program itself or through integration with external mapping services.
These features contribute to an efficient and enjoyable logging experience for ham radio operators, allowing them to manage their contacts effectively and participate in various aspects of the hobby seamlessly.
Several programs are well-regarded for logging Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) QSOs. Here are some popular options:
- CQRLOG: CQRLOG is a logging application specifically designed for amateur radio. It supports various modes, including DMR, and offers features like ADIF support, QSL management, and customizable logging fields. https://www.cqrlog.com/
- Log4OM: Log4OM is a comprehensive logging program for amateur radio operators. It supports DMR logging along with many other modes and features customizable logging fields, QSL management, and integration with various online services. https://www.log4om.com/
- HRD (Ham Radio Deluxe): Ham Radio Deluxe is a suite of software for amateur radio operators. While primarily known for its rig control features, it also includes a logging component that supports DMR and other modes. https://www.hamradiodeluxe.com/
- QRZ.com: QRZ.com offers logging capabilities alongside its extensive callsign database. While not as feature-rich as dedicated logging software, it provides a convenient option for logging DMR QSOs, especially for users who already use the QRZ.com platform. https://logbook.qrz.com/
- N1MM Logger+: N1MM Logger+ is primarily designed for contest logging but can also be used for regular amateur radio operation, including DMR. It offers features like customizable logging fields and ADIF support. https://n1mmwp.hamdocs.com/
- DXKeeper: DXKeeper is part of the DXLab suite of amateur radio software. While it’s more focused on DXing activities, it can still be used for general logging, including DMR contacts. https://www.dxlabsuite.com/dxkeeper/
- DXLab Suite (DXKeeper, SpotCollector, etc.): DXLab Suite offers a comprehensive set of tools for amateur radio enthusiasts. While primarily focused on DXing, its logging component (DXKeeper) can handle DMR contacts along with other modes. https://dxlabsuite.com/ https://www.dxlabsuite.com/spotcollector/ https://www.dxlabsuite.com/dxkeeper/
- N3FJP Logging Software: N3FJP offers a range of logging software tailored for different aspects of amateur radio operation. While not specifically marketed for DMR, it can be used for logging DMR QSOs with some customization. https://www.n3fjp.com/
When choosing a logging program for DMR QSOs, consider factors such as ease of use, compatibility with your operating system and radio equipment, integration with online services or other software, and any specific features you require for your logging workflow.
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Netlogger
Download the Program https://netlogger.org/download.php
Currently Active Nets @ 2024-03-25 16:02:58 UTC
| Net Name | Frequency | Mode | Server Cluster | Start Time – UTC | Elapsed Time | Subscribers | Opened By |
| 20m Salvation Army SATERN net (www) | 14325 | SSB | NETLOGGER | 2024-03-25 14:41:47 | 01:21:11 | 11 | W8SAT-STATION OP – v3.1.7W |
| 40M 718550MHz EarlyBird Net (www) | 7.18550 | SSB | NETLOGGER | 2024-03-25 14:27:45 | 01:35:13 | 8 | W7CPT-JIM – v3.1.5W |
| Air Forces Flyers Club (www) | 14290 | SSB | NETLOGGER | 2024-03-25 14:27:00 | 01:35:58 | 15 | WA6LJS-JON – v3.1.7W |
| California Hawaii Net (www) | 14.340 | SSB | NETLOGGER | 2024-03-25 15:28:14 | 00:34:44 | 7 | VE6SCL-STEVE – v3.1.7W |
| DO NOTHING NET (www) | 7.278 | SSB | NETLOGGER | 2024-03-25 15:56:06 | 00:06:52 | 4 | KF5FSK-AJ – v3.1.7W |
| Looking at Victory Fellowshp Net (www) | 14.304 | SSB | NETLOGGER | 2024-03-25 14:50:50 | 01:12:08 | 5 | W2MDM-MIKE – v3.1.7M |
| Noon Daily Pocono Net (www) | 50.450 | SSB | NETLOGGER | 2024-03-25 15:58:36 | 00:04:22 | 2 | W2JPG-JOHN – v3.1.7W |
| Ohana Net 2024-03-25 (www) | 14.268 | SSB | NETLOGGER | 2024-03-25 15:51:32 | 00:11:26 | 3 | W6DOF – v3.1.5W |
| SVARA Submarine Veterans Net (www) | 14.343 | SSB | NETLOGGER | 2024-03-25 14:48:07 | 01:14:51 | 12 | W1IZZ-LARRY – v3.1.7W |
| Usual Guys on 7155 (www) | 7.155 | SSB | NETLOGGER | 2024-03-25 14:28:23 | 01:34:35 | 11 | NA5S-BRITT – v3.1.5W |
| W8IRA Michigan Noon Time Net (www) | 147.160 | FM | NETLOGGER | 2024-03-25 15:58:31 | 00:04:27 | 2 | KE8GC-GREG – v3.1.7W |
| WA7DRE morning net (www) | Ref 35C | Dstar | NETLOGGER | 2024-03-25 13:49:08 | 02:13:50 | 4 | W7CDP – v3.1.7W |
| Yl System 2nd Period (www) | 14.332 | SSB | NETLOGGER3 | 2024-03-25 15:39:06 | 00:23:52 | 12 | K2DJL-DAN – v3.1.7W |
Selected NetLogger Statistics
NetLogger User TIPS and TRICKS
This list of tips and tricks has been developed after reviewing years of support requests. We hope you find them useful. support@netlogger.org
OUR BIGGEST TIP
NetLogger has an extensive in-program HELP system. See HELP>>CONTENTS in the top menu for an overview of what is available. We recommend you spend some time reading through this content.
FINDING THINGS ON THE SCREEN
Clicking anywhere on a line in the Check-ins list or Contacts list and typing CONTROL-Q will open a separate browser window with that stations’ QRZ.com page displayed.
You can start a SEARCH of the Check-ins list for a callsign by typing CONTROL-f.
You can sort the check-in list by clicking on a column header. To sort in reverse, click that column header again. To revert to the original sort order, press the # sign in the first column.
CHANGING THE SCREEN “LOOK AND FEEL”
You can re-order the columns in the Check-ins window and the Contacts window by dragging the column headers left or right to a new location. (To drag, hold down the mouse button while
moving the cursor.)
You can change the font, font-size, and foreground/background colors of all of the windows.
See EDIT>>{window name} in the top menu.
You can hide and unhide columns in the Check-ins and Contacts windows. See EDIT>>{window name} in the top menu.
You can make the Contacts list a separate window unto itself by UNDOCKING it from the Contacts list. See UNDOCKING THE CONTACTS TABLE in the HELP Index for further discussion.
Rev 1.0 9-Sep-2023
USING AIM
You can send internet links via AIM. Cut and paste the link into the message box and press send — we will do the rest.
AIM supports a limited number of emoticons/emojis in your message. See EMOTICONS in the HELP index for further discussion.
AIM supports BB CODE in your messages which allows you to include simple text formatting such as italics, bold, underline, strikethrough, and bigger or smaller text. See BB CODE in the
HELP Index for further discussion.
You can ignore a station on AIM and avoid seeing their messages by using the AIM Ignore feature. See AIM IGNORE in the HELP Index for further discussion.
MANAGING YOUR DATA
You can configure WHERE and HOW OFTEN NetLogger creates a backup of your Contacts. See BACKING UP YOUR CONTACTS in the HELP Index for further discussion.
Want to import your contacts into a spreadsheet? NetLogger allow you to export your contacts in either ADIF or CSV format. CAUTION: The CSV format only includes a subset of the
information in your Contacts list and is not recommended for this purpose (We originally included it for compatibility with the original version of NetLogger on Windows XP.)
To assist you we have created an online tool that will convert your exported ADFI file into a CSV file which you can then import to a spreadsheet. The tool is located at https://
MISCELLANEOUS
You can MONITOR more than one net at a time. To open an additional net use FILE>>NEW NET WINDOW in the top menu.
You can bring up a Check in list for any net completed within the last 30 days. See VIEWING
PREVIOUS NET INFORMATION in the HELP Index for further.
https://netlogger.org/downloads/NetLogger%20TIPS.pdf
WPSD Pi-star Hotspot lets you choose which service to use (RadioID or QRZ) when looking up callsigns.
If you want to donate to BrandMeister to help them run their DMR network, Corey Dean N3FE shared the following links:
3102 and 3104 donations https://www.nfoservers.com/donate.pl?force_recipient=1&recipient=n3fe%40repeater.net
3103 donations https://www.nfoservers.com/donate.pl?force_recipient=1&recipient=w7xm%40w7xm.com
Robert Bretzman K4WZV of the TGIF network mentioned this if you want to donate to their network:
The servers that run the TGIF Network draw money from a coffer fund. We pay for much of it out of our own pockets, so we very much appreciate any donations. If you wish to donate, you may do so by clicking the donation link: https://www.paypal.com/donate/
If you want to donate to RadioID.net, Glen Bizeau VE9GLN said you can subscribe to his website for additional features: https://radioid.net/account/membership.
You can also purchase RadioID.net merchandise at https://store.radioid.net/.
Garrett Down KD6KPC of Repeaterbook.com shared this if you want to donate to his website:
To run a website like Repeaterbook.com, revenue is needed to keep it active on the web. There are bills to be paid, hosting companies to be paid, SSL certificates to be purchased, and other expenses that go along with the research and development of the data. The costs add up.
Repeaterbook has committed to keeping access to its data completely free. Since we don’t charge for the data or access to the site, we decided to incorporate ads into the site. The ads generate revenue that has been sufficient to pay the bills (most months). With the advent of ad-blocking technology, we began to see ad revenue slip. We get it. Many people don’t want to see ads and our stats indicate that up to 30% of our site visitors are using an ad blocker. Some say the performance on the site has even suffered waiting for ads to load. And come are concerned about Internet tracking through the ads (yes, Google does it).
We think we have found a solution to meet in the middle.
You can now subscribe to Repeaterbook and obtain a membership that will silence the ads on Repeaterbook. This form of obtaining revenue while quieting ads is used on qrz.com.
So now we have two option to fit your preference:
- Enjoy Repeaterbook completely free, while enduring the ads that appear.
- Sign up for a Repeaterbook subscription and silence the ads.
To take advantage of this offer, you must be a registered user in good standing.
Look at our Subscription Plans.
https://www.repeaterbook.com/index.php/en-us/ad-free
Finally, join and become a member of your local amateur radio club. They can use your dues to help defray the costs of running the club and repeater.
The DMR Tech Net team is branching out with a monthly show called DMR Tech Net TV on Zoom the third Tuesday of each month from 8pm-9pm ET
- We’ve scheduled Garrett Dow KD6KPC of Repeaterbook.com on Tuesday, April 16, to explain his website and the new changes coming to it.
- If you missed previous DMR Tech Net TV broadcasts, you can watch them on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq4TAnA-_yE7kdcuaKzw8rQ
- If you have a topic or issue you would like discussed, let us know.
We’re also in communication with Chip Cuccio WØCHP to come back on the DMR Tech Net to explain (and answer the questions you have about) the WPST Pi-star dashboard and the M17 Network. Due to family issues, he’s been unable to join us, but when time permits, we’ll change our weekly topic so we can hear from him.
You can always chat with the DMR Tech Net team on TGIF talk group 31268, the DMR Tech Net channel or Brandmeister talk group 31266, the Michigan Nets channel.
If you have a comment or a DMR topic idea for the DMR Tech Net, please share it with any of us. Send an email to: steve@dmrtechnet.net, stan@dmrtechnet.net, tom@dmrtechnet.net, dana@dmrtechnet.net, brian@dmrtechnet.net, or brad@dmrtechnet.net.
If you want to subscribe to this newsletter, send an email to subscribe@dmrtechnet.net.
Here are the Michigan DMR nets we know about.
Please join in & participate on them.
If you know of other Michigan DMR nets, please let us know.
Saturday:
- 7:00pm Arrow DMR Net on BrandMeister talk group 3126
- 7:30pm DMR Trivia Net on TGIF talk group 31268
Sunday:
- 6:30pm UP Net on BrandMeister talk group 31268
Monday:
- 7:30pm DMR Tech Net on BrandMeister talk group 3126
- 8:30pm Michigan One DMR Net on BrandMeister talk group 3126
The DMR Tech Net team is helping Dustin N8RMA with NCS duties on the Michigan One DMR net on Monday nights. If you would like to join in our schedule of Net Control Station operators, send an email to dana@dmrtechnet.net. Here’s the upcoming list of substitute NCS’:
- Mar 25 Tom N8TJ
- Apr 1 The co-founders, Randy N8YUI & Dustin N8RMA, will be NCS’ for the Michigan One DMR net’s 5th anniversary show! We want to beat the current record of 30 check-ins. We had 21 for last week’s Michigan One DMR net.
- Apr 8 Brian KE8NJT
- Apr 15 Brad KE8WNV
- Apr 22 Bob KB8DQQ
- Apr 29 Ron AC2UL
- May 6 Steve KC8WXM
https://www.michiganonedmr.net/
Net Control Station (NCS) Resources
Any successful net needs net controllers to make sure things move smoothly and efficiently through the communication process. The good news is with minimal practice, this can be easy and rewarding. Below you will find everything you need to run the MichiganONE DMR Net successfully.
What You Need
- MODMRN NCS Script
- Netlogger (or other logging software)
You can choose to use Netlogger (many do), but it is not required. Feel free to use any ham radio logging platform you’d like, just provided you can export the file to an ADIF format. Most, if not all, ham radio loggers will do this. Netlogger (with the accompanying PRF file) contains extra information about the net denizens, including preferred names, Founder status, NCS status or former call signs. It’s useful but not required.
After The Net
Once the net concludes, export the check-ins to an ADIF file and use the form below to submit. After it gets merged into the master record, it will appear on the network statistics page.
That’s it!
Net Control Stations (NCS)
| Call | Name |
| N8RMA | Dustin |
| KE8VBU | Riley |
| N8YUI | Randy |
| AD8KN | Rick |
| KC8WXM | Steve |
| KE8WNV | Brad |
| KD8VJD | Al |
| KB8DQQ | Bob |
| AC2UL | Ron |
| KC0MYP | Dana |
NCS Resources
NCS Netlogger Setup Directions
Netlogger Club / Net File (PRF)
NCS Script (V1.2)
https://www.michiganonedmr.net/p/ncs.html
Brandmeister Michigan Talk Groups
Topics for future DMR Tech Nets:
- Go over the Digimon feature to explain what it is, how and why to use it.
- Private calling on your DMR radio. How to set it up on your equipment.
- What’s involved with being a NCS (Net Control Station)?
- Do you contribute to the DMR networks/modes you utilize? Why or why not?
- Firmware and software radio updates.
- Hot Keys. What are they, why use them, and how to set them up.
- DMR tips. Like what Steve KC8WXM mentioned to better (and faster) utilize DMR features.
- Adding or changing DMR channels via keypad programming.
- How to update your DMR digital contacts via https://radioid.net/
- Asking check-ins what they know now that they didn’t know when they started with DMR that would be helpful to other beginners (Elmering).
- A timeline to get started of essential things to do with DMR and why.
- Which DMR radio do you use the most & why?
- Proper DMR practices & procedures to use on-air.
- DMR text messaging
- Advanced features of the Anytone 878 handheld and 578 mobile radio.
- Going over the different DMR networks (Brandmeister, TGIF, M17, DMR+, YSF, etc).
- Useful radio accessories to use with your DMR equipment.
- Unique names used instead of the amateur radio alpha codes.
- Antennas for handheld, mobile, and home radios.
- Logging software.
- QSL cards Do you send them out?
- Repeaters, hotspots, or both? Which do you use and why?
- WPSD hotspot dashboard.
- APRS & GPS setup and usage.
- Custom call signs.
- What are your predictions for the DMR world in 2024?
- What networks and talk groups do you use, and why?
- What features do you wish your DMR radio had?