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