introduction to n1mm logger confessions of a former dos addict by pete smith, n4zr

Introduction to N1MM Logger

Confessions of A Former DOS Addict

By Pete Smith, N4ZR

Background

• Started in computer logging with C-64

• Went to CT with version 6

• Went to TR Log 8 years ago (Version 4)

• First tried N1MM Logger in November 2003

• Now entirely committed to using N1MM

Why?

• Advantages of Windows environment for logging programs is too important to ignore• Display flexibility

• Smooth multi-tasking

• Easy networking (LAN or Internet)

• Compatibility with evolving machines and operating systems (e.g., Windows XP)

Display FlexibilityHere’s a typical screen from TRLog

And in N1MM Logger

For Example

What’s Different About N1MM

• Run/S&P modes

• Enter Sends Messages (ESM) mode

• A better bandmap

• All contests stored in a common database

• Very quick, responsive support

• Extreme customization possible

• And it’s freeware

Run/S&P Modes

ESM…S&P

ESM…Running

A Better Bandmap

Zooming the Bandmap

Zooming the Bandmap

A Common Database

• All contests are stored in a common Access database.

• Switching between contests is almost as simple as just choosing another one from a menu

• Records are accessible to any Access tools you have, and may be easily exported to other formats.

Very Quick, Responsive Support

• N1MM monitors activity during major contests and users’ testing beforehand

• Bug fixes quickly implemented; rarely are other things broken when a bug is fixed

• Lots of open discussion about potential enhancements on N1MM mailing list

Extreme Customization Possible

• Because all the windows are true Windows, all can be resized and moved around the screen. This gives great flexibility.

• Some users even run two monitors and put some windows on one, and others on the other.

What Don’t I Like

• Handling of multiplier lists for different contests is awkward; manual customization may be required to avoid problems, particularly where VE mults involved.

• Canned CW or voice message lists must be manually stored and recalled for each contest.

Gripes (cont’d.)

• SO2R support not quite as good (yet) as TR Log – less automatic

• Good CW and SO2R may require an outboard keyer (fortunately “Winkey” is cheap)

• No integrated paddle keying – but Winkey does it almost as well as TR Log, including interruption of canned CW messages

Gripes (cont’d.)

• Needs more stored CW messages, for fills in contests with complex exchanges.

• Some Multi-op features – synchronization across network, for example – less mature than Writelog.

• Built-in contest recording not very effective

Computer Requirements

• For phone, or if Winkey used, a 266 MHz Pentium with 128 MB of RAM will probably be adequate.

• Windows XP may require more RAM• With my 1700+ Athlon and 256 MB, there

is no problem running internal CW and SO2R in the most challenging configuration.

Where to Get It

• Download (freeware) from http://www.n1mm.com

• Info on Winkey from http://www.k1el.com