Useful Links and Software Resources

Database and Lookup Information:

Logbook of the World (LoTW) – is an online logbook service provided by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) that allows amateur radio operators to securely store their contact logs and submit them for award verification. LoTW is widely used to verify QSOs (contacts) for awards such as DXCC, WAS, and others. Operators can upload their logs in ADIF format and receive confirmations from other operators’ logs, simplifying the process of applying for awards.

QRZ– is a comprehensive online resource for amateur radio operators, offering a wide range of tools and services. The site features a large, searchable database of callsigns, allowing users to look up information about other operators, including their location, license class, and contact history. QRZ.com also provides logging capabilities, DX spotter information, and access to forums and news relevant to the ham radio community. In addition to the free services, QRZ offers premium accounts with additional features such as logbook management and enhanced lookup capabilities.

HamQTH.com – is an online resource for amateur radio operators that offers a variety of services, including a callsign database, classified ads, and email forwarding. The site allows users to look up information on other operators’ callsigns and provides a free directory of amateur radio stations worldwide. QTH.com also hosts a popular classified section for buying and selling radio equipment, antennas, and other ham radio gear. In addition, it provides free email forwarding services for ham radio operators, allowing them to maintain a professional-looking email address using their callsign.

HamDB.com – is an online database and lookup tool for amateur radio operators, offering a comprehensive directory of callsigns, including information on license class, location, and other relevant details. The site allows users to search for operators by callsign or location, making it a useful tool for finding and verifying contacts, particularly in DXing and contesting. HamDB also provides a database of repeaters, which can be helpful for operators looking for local or regional communication frequencies.

Solar Info and Propagation:

SolarHam.com – a comprehensive resource for real-time space weather information, focusing on solar activity and its impact on Earth. The site offers timely updates on solar flares, sunspot activity, and geomagnetic storms, often ahead of other sources. Amateur radio operators can use SolarHam.com to monitor solar events that influence HF band conditions and auroral activity.

hf.DXView.org – a real-time propagation map designed for amateur radio operators to visualize HF band conditions.It displays worldwide activity across 11 bands from 1.8 to 54 MHz, updating every minute based on data from sources like WSPRnet, Reverse Beacon Network (CW, FT4, FT8), and DX Cluster. The map indicates signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) with color-coded overlays: green for SSB (SNR > 10), yellow for CW (SNR > -1), and red for digital modes (down to SNR ≈ -28), helping operators assess band suitability for different modes.Users can click on the map to set a perspective from their location, highlighting areas with active propagation paths.

HamQSL Solar Data – is a dedicated page on HamQSL.com that provides real-time solar activity information, crucial for amateur radio operators. The page features data on solar flux, sunspot numbers, solar wind, and other solar indices that directly impact HF radio propagation.

VOACAP Propagation – a powerful tool used by amateur radio operators to predict radio wave propagation conditions between different locations around the world. It uses a model called VOACAP (Voice of America Coverage Analysis Program) to simulate how signals travel across the atmosphere, considering factors like frequency, time of day, and solar activity.

Reporting and Clusters:

PSK Reporter – an online tool used by amateur radio operators to track the reception of digital modes like PSK31, FT8, and others worldwide. It gathers data from stations reporting their signal reception and visualizes propagation patterns on an interactive map. This allows operators to see where their signals are being heard and analyze propagation conditions in real time.

Reverse Beacon Network – a global network of receivers that monitor and report the reception of amateur radio signals, primarily from digital modes like CW, RTTY, and PSK. It provides real-time propagation data by tracking where and when signals are heard across different regions. Operators can use this tool to check their signal’s reach, confirm band openings, and assess propagation conditions.

DX Summit – an online tool that aggregates and displays real-time DX (distant) radio contacts from the global DX Cluster network. It shows recent spots of stations calling CQ or engaging in active communication across various bands and modes. Users can search for specific frequencies, countries, or modes to track DX activity, making it an essential resource for amateur radio operators seeking new contacts or monitoring propagation conditions.

DX Heat – an online DX cluster and spotting network that provides real-time information about worldwide amateur radio activity. It displays live spots of stations on various bands and modes, allowing operators to track DX (long-distance) activity, monitor propagation, and find new stations to work. DXHeat offers customizable filtering options to view spots by frequency, mode, or continent. The site also features a map view, which helps visualize propagation paths and band conditions.

Software Applications:

WSJT-X – is a free, open-source software suite used by amateur radio operators for digital communication, particularly in weak signal modes like FT8, FT4, and WSPR. Developed by Joe Taylor (K1JT) and his team, WSJT-X is designed to enable reliable two-way communication even under poor propagation conditions. The software automatically decodes signals and allows operators to send preset messages or custom transmissions.. WSJT-X can also be used to track and analyze propagation conditions through modes like FT8.

GridTracker – is a software tool that integrates with digital modes like FT8 and JT65 to display a real-time map of your contacts based on Maidenhead grid squares. It automatically tracks and visualizes your QSOs (contacts) on an interactive map, showing the grid locations of stations you’ve worked. This tool is especially useful for operators aiming to complete grid-based awards, such as the Worked All States (WAS) or Grid Master awards. GridTracker also helps monitor propagation by showing contacts in various regions and can display statistics and logs for your activity.

JS8Call – is a digital communication mode and software suite designed for weak-signal communication in the amateur radio bands, based on the FT8 protocol. It allows operators to send and receive short text messages, with the added capability of sending acknowledgments and relay messages, which makes it ideal for emergency communication and long-distance (DX) operations. JS8Call is unique because it supports two-way communication, unlike FT8, which is primarily designed for one-way transmission. The software also allows for automated message sending, including status updates and tracking reports, making it a versatile tool for both everyday use and emergency situations.

RMNoise – is a software tool designed to reduce or eliminate noise interference in amateur radio signals, particularly in the HF bands. It uses advanced signal processing techniques to help operators improve the quality of their received signals by filtering out unwanted noise such as static, electrical interference, and environmental noise. RMNoise is especially useful in challenging conditions where signal clarity is compromised, making it easier for operators to hear weak signals, even in crowded or noisy bands. The software can be used with a variety of SDR (Software Defined Radio) setups and transceivers.

FLRig – is an open-source software used for controlling transceivers and other radio equipment via a computer. It is part of the FLDigi suite of programs and is primarily designed to work with a wide range of radios, enabling remote control of functions such as frequency tuning, transmit power, and mode selection. FLRig is particularly useful for digital mode operations, allowing seamless integration with programs like FLDigi, WSJT-X, and others.

FLDigi – is a popular open-source software used for digital communications in amateur radio. It supports a wide range of digital modes, including PSK31, RTTY, FT8, and many others. FLDigi allows operators to send and receive text-based messages over the airwaves, even under weak signal conditions. The software automatically decodes and encodes signals, offering an easy-to-use interface for digital mode operation. FLDigi can be integrated with other tools like FLRig for full station automation.

Direwolf – is a software-based soundcard TNC (Terminal Node Controller) that allows amateur radio operators to decode and encode digital modes like APRS, RTTY, and packet radio. It is often used for handling APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) traffic, providing a cost-effective alternative to hardware TNCs. Direwolf works with soundcards or USB interfaces and supports various digital communication modes, making it highly flexible for both packet-based networking and real-time message transmission.

VarAC – (Varicode Automatic Communications) is a digital mode designed for use with amateur radio that prioritizes reliable, low-latency communication over weak signals. It uses a unique variable-length encoding scheme (Varicode) to transmit data more efficiently, which allows operators to exchange messages even in challenging conditions with lower bandwidth and reduced power requirements.

EchoLink – is a voice communication system that enables amateur radio operators to connect to other operators via the internet. It allows users to access remote radio repeaters, participate in conferences, and talk with other ham radio operators around the world using their computers or smartphones. EchoLink uses a client-server model, where users can connect to a node (typically a radio repeater or another operator’s system) to transmit and receive voice over the internet, while still adhering to the licensing requirements of amateur radio. It’s a valuable tool for operators in remote areas or for those looking to extend their reach without using traditional radio hardware.

MMSTV – (MultiMode Slow-Scan Television) is a software program used by amateur radio operators for sending and receiving Slow Scan TV (SSTV) images over the radio. It supports multiple SSTV modes, allowing operators to transmit images such as photographs, charts, and other visual data in a compressed format. MMSTV is commonly used for visual communication in the ham radio community, especially during events like special operations, emergency communications, or when operators want to exchange visual content along with voice or digital signals. The software is easy to use and integrates with most popular transceivers and soundcards.

Useful Logging Options:

Polo Logger (Ham2K) – is a logging app designed specifically for amateur radio operators than find themselves outside of the shack. Po(rtable) Lo(gger) was created to help hams track their contacts and manage logbook entries efficiently while in the field running from the users smartphone. It supports multiple modes and is especially useful for operators who engage in digital modes, CW, and voice operations for outdoor activities like POTA or SOTA.

HAMRS – is a popular logging application for amateur radio operators, designed to provide an easy-to-use and efficient logbook experience. It is available on both Windows and mobile platforms and is particularly well-suited for field operations and portable stations. HAMRS offers features like automatic logging of contacts (including for contests and DX operations), GPS integration for logging location-based data, and real-time synchronization with cloud-based services. It also supports various formats for exporting logs, making it a flexible tool for keeping track of your contacts, awards, and operating activities.

RumLOG – (MAC OS) is a versatile logging software for amateur radio operators, designed to handle both casual and contest-style logging. It offers features like automatic frequency detection, real-time logging, and integration with digital modes such as FT8, RTTY, and CW. RumLOG supports a wide range of award tracking, including DXCC and WAS, and can export logs in standard formats like ADIF for easy integration with online logbooks. With its user-friendly interface, RumLOG is a great tool for operators looking to efficiently log contacts, monitor band activity, and track their progress toward various awards.

Activities and Organizations:

POTA.App is an online tool for tracking and managing activity related to the Parks on the Air (POTA) program, which encourages amateur radio operators to operate from national and state parks. The website provides real-time spotting and logging of POTA activations, allowing operators to see which parks are currently active and where operators are operating from.

SOTA (Summits on the Air) – is an international amateur radio program that encourages operators to activate summits (mountaintops) and make radio contacts from high-altitude locations. The program allows operators to earn points for each activation and for working others who are activating summits. SOTA is not only about making contacts but also involves hiking or climbing to remote, often challenging summits, making it an exciting combination of outdoor adventure and ham radio.

LICW Club (Long Island CW Club) – is a community of amateur radio operators dedicated to promoting and improving Morse code (CW) skills among its members. The club offers training, support, and resources for both beginners and experienced CW operators, and hosts regular activities such as contests, operating events, and CW practice sessions. LICW Club is also involved in educational outreach and strives to keep the tradition of Morse code alive within the ham radio community. It’s a great place for those interested in improving their CW proficiency and connecting with other operators who share a passion for Morse code.

OMISS (Old Man’s International Sideband Society) – is an international amateur radio club that focuses on promoting voice communication, particularly on the HF bands. The club is open to all licensed amateur radio operators, regardless of age or experience, and encourages regular on-air activity through scheduled nets, contests, and special events. OMISS is known for its friendly and supportive environment, where members often engage in informal, casual conversations. The club also offers awards for members who reach milestones in their contact achievements and has a special focus on promoting voice communication on the 75-meter and 40-meter bands.

SKCC (Straight Key Century Club) – is an international amateur radio club dedicated to preserving and promoting the use of the straight key in Morse code (CW) operation. The club encourages operators to use traditional, non-electronic keys for CW communication, fostering a sense of nostalgia and skill in the process. SKCC hosts regular events, contests, and “key-down” sessions to help operators hone their CW skills and celebrate the art of manual Morse code. Members can earn awards and recognition for their straight key activity, making it a great community for both newcomers and experienced CW operators who appreciate the history and challenge of traditional Morse code.

ARRL (American Radio Relay League) – is the national association for amateur radio in the United States, representing over 160,000 licensed operators. Founded in 1914, ARRL advocates for amateur radio interests, provides resources for operators, and offers educational materials, publications, and events. It also supports programs like emergency communications, public service, and licensing. ARRL hosts popular contests and awards programs, such as DXCC, and is the governing body for many aspects of ham radio in the U.S. Through its affiliated clubs and resources, ARRL plays a key role in fostering growth, education, and advocacy within the amateur radio community.

The World Radio League (WRL) – is an international organization that brings together amateur radio operators and enthusiasts from around the globe to promote the hobby, encourage communication, and facilitate technical cooperation. The league organizes events, contests, and provides resources for ham radio operators, including information on licensing, operating techniques, and equipment. It also serves as a platform for sharing knowledge about radio technology, propagation, and emergency communications. Similar to organizations like the ARRL, WRL helps foster a global community of amateur radio operators while advocating for the interests of the hobby worldwide.

Study Tools and Learning:

HamStudy.org is an online resource designed to help amateur radio operators prepare for their license exams. The website offers a variety of study tools, including practice exams, flashcards, and study guides, tailored to all levels of licensing (Technician, General, and Extra). It provides a user-friendly interface to help users learn and reinforce key concepts related to FCC amateur radio licensing. HamStudy.org also tracks your progress, helping you focus on areas where you need improvement. It’s a great tool for both beginners preparing for their first exam and for experienced operators looking to upgrade their licenses.

HamRadioPrep – is an online platform designed to help individuals prepare for their amateur radio license exams. It offers a comprehensive, structured study program with interactive lessons, practice exams, and personalized progress tracking. The courses cover all levels of licensing, including Technician, General, and Extra class, and are designed to be beginner-friendly, with clear explanations and practical tips. HamRadioPrep uses a proven method to help users pass their exams on the first try by focusing on key concepts and offering unlimited practice tests. It’s a great resource for anyone looking to quickly and efficiently get their ham radio license.

YouTube Channels:

HAM RADIO Crash Course – Josh Nass, KI6NAZ has build an all inclusive channel for reviewing radios, experimenting with new modes, and analyzing the ins and outs of ham radio.

Ham Radio 2.0 – Join Jason Johnston, callsign KC5HWB, in this channel to talk about everything that is new in Ham Radio. Contains reviews of new radios, new products and new modes for the modern ham operator.

Ham Radio 4 Non Techies – Ham Radio for Non Techies was created for those interested in getting into HAM radio and for those who have just gotten in the hobby/art. This channel has discussions about radios and try to translate the technical terminology involved with HAM radio to help make it easier to understand.

The Smokin’ Ape – Dive deep into the technical aspects of ham radio, where we explore everything from RF to antenna theory. Join us as we review the latest products and gear, helping you make informed choices for your station.

Adam Kimerly K6ARK – Adam, K6ARK, a ham radio geek who operates mostly outdoors. On my channel, you’ll find videos of my SOTA adventures and portable radio-related projects.

Thomas K4SWL – This channel is devoted to real-time, real-life, no-edit park and summit field activation videos. I also feature shortwave receiver receiver reviews and comparisons. My videos have no advertisement interruptions as I’ve turned off YouTube monetization.