This is the Ham Radio Deluxe Software Newsletter for October 2023. Join Mike (WA9PIE) and Lindy (KB9PIE) as they discuss the progress toward the development of version 6.9. A demonstration of a few new enhancements is included.
As a former Deputy Building Inspector and with many other qualifications for being an expert in court testimony on construction, thanks to both of you for the update on the whole house remodel of HRD. I know that projects like that often take longer and cost much more than originally planned. We can all see the commitment that you two have made in HRD both financially and emotionally. HRD as it stands right now is a world class product. So, take care of yourselves and try not to stress. Take your time to get it right and release it when you are satisfied. If that is next year, then it is next year. 73, Jim W6LG RU-vid Elmer with 45K subscribers. If I can help, let me know.
Absolutely take the time needed to get things right. The people that use Windows know it can make a life miserable with a poor version release. (Almost all of them) I don't use Mac or Linux, but I'm sure it's not easy to cross-platform a program at all. You are working hard to improve the program for the many people that use it daily, and the many others that are using those other platforms. People that complain about a quick release or a yearly update, need to have more patience for a product that's done well. Not to mention the financial, physical and emotional aspect of it all. Take care. 73's
I had been using the free version for years. Last year I finally bought a legal install. Having just purchased a new IC-7300 I was absolutely astounded by how well HRD works with the 7300 an SDR Console, which I have synchronized by virtue of vspMgr. I am a senior software and database developer by trade. I have three words for you on the new release: TAKE YOUR TIME! QA is EVERYTHING! And by porting to Linux you are guaranteeing your future. The day will come where most hams will learn to HATE Microsoft. I use MS and Linux products every single day of my life. You are doing the right thing.
Yeah, I hear ya. But I wasn't born with patience as one of my virtues. I don't like waiting. But I know it will be worth the wait. The developers have to "get it past me" before it goes to beta. So there's that.
I'm very excited about these changes and can't wait for the 7.0 release, ready to be among the first to buy it. Finally someone is doing something about this as all ham radio logging programs are built on and have user experience of the 20 year old platforms. It's a nightmare. On another note, PLEASE pay attention to your audio. Clip-on microphones are $20 and are an absolute must for presentations like this.
Yeah... it depends on how bad the code is that you're cleaning up. In our case, there have been a dozen developers in this code over the past 15 years. It's just time to start fresh.
Looking fwd to this. Will this new version have a function to turn on a QSO counter? I cant find anywhere in the current release where you can see your total number of qso's in your log.
Thanks to both of you to shair the newest info on getting a new as new can be upgrade soon. I am still having problems with the radio controller time out connection to the FT DX 101 MP. when you first start up it works within less than a min it stopes I have to cleck on the controller screan for it to start again then it times out. So I hope you get the new rig operation within the radio controller module it gets fixed. Again thank for the help in the past and I am escited to see the new programs . Jim
I just unboxed my FTdx101MP here to give it a go. But there's no reason why that should happen... unless another program is trying to get to the same COM port.
You mentioned contest (logging) very quickly; earlier indications were that you were looking to a third party to get involved with that aspect of logging. Is this still the case/is it going to be in with 6.9 or later releases? Thanks for the update.
They're all designed to run together. Digital modes applications like WSJT-X and DM-780 need access to a database... which requires Logbook running... and Logbook and the digital modes programs require frequency and mode from Rig Control. You can create the icons on your own, if you like.
Mike, I can't wait to see the new version. Recently we communicated on email about the FT-891 commands etcetera. Hope to see the new version soon. 73 de W4BTK.
Greetings! and keep up the good work! Could you please consider changing the color of the top row of column headings in Logbook to be some color other than the white and gray colors that separate one QSO from another? Column headings should be distinct from data, IMO. Thanks!
Two answers for that. When you're runnning DM-780, there are macros for CW you can use there. But I suspect you mean from within Logbook... and I've considered this myself in the past (finding a method to get to the rig's keyer commands or Winkeyer). I agree and we'll get it added when we can.
Can you add a short video update that explains if SQLite will be automatically installed in the 6.9.x update, or if we will have to install and configure it? Also how do you see data migration into the new database being handled? Will there be any data validation checks to make sure the Award Tracking numbers are the same before and after data migration? Thanks
Great question. We've actually already tested this but the process for data migration works like this... a backup is made of the primary log using the same XML backup format we've always used, a new SQLite database is created, and the XML is restored to that new SQLite database. This is all done automatically on install. For other Access logs (that weren't primary), there's a conversion utility where you select the Access log and it converts it to the same XML backup format and creates a new SQLite database for it. The strategy here is that we will never delete any data. The Access files are being left alone (aside from making a backup out of them). Because ALL the fields exist in the XML format, it would be "impossible" for the awards tracking to show different numbers. But even so, we'll test that. But that's the way it's been approached. When the release is near, I'll be doing video demonstrations about that.
SQLite is actually just a single C source file that they probably have linked into the program, so there's nothing to "install" for SQLite itself, unlike server-based SQL database systems like PostgreSQL / MySQL etc. SQLite is actually one of the top five most deployed and used pieces of software ever written, with literally trillions of SQLite databases in use (hint: every smartphone in the world has MANY SQLite databases on it).
I can't answer that question because I don't use either. We have no method to test with them. However, there will be time for those who do use these other platforms to test and provide us with feedback at the time of release.
Thanks for all you guys do. HRD has enhanced my amateur radio experience well beyond what I thought was possible. You all deserve a huge pat on the back. Scott - VE7KI
Can you do something about HRD Logbook constantly going into Backup mode when I attempt to "quit" the app, and then I have to have Win11 force a shutdown of the app?
I'm happy to help you with that right now. The problem you have is that your archive folder is corrupt. Go into your backup settings and give that file a new name there. You can also change when the backup happens... but if you'll just give it a new name (or delete the existing archive file), this problem goes away. It's a Windows corrpution issue that happens sometimes. More info here: support.hamradiodeluxe.com/support/solutions/articles/51000052696-backup-restore-logbook-data
One thing I hope that does not change is support for Windows 7. I have Win 10 and 11 and have had so many bad experiences with them updating and crashing. Also I got a ton of legacy ham gear that only connects under Win 7. The other thing that is annoying with the current logbook is the Alarms. They just alert you for an entity just based on Prefix or call sign. I really like how your competitor allows people to select Bands and Modes that they need and only alarms when those are on the air. Also a Push notification App for the Logbook would be a lot more useful than email alerts.
I was wondering whether we can get an extra button in the QSO Edit window, beside the Update F7 (which closes the edit window). We need a Save Fx without closing the edit window, so we can quickly hit Next/Prev to Edit the next/prev QSOs. Some Fx keys on the Next and Prev would be nice. Thanks Mike and Lindy for all the effort. 73 de "we", M0 IPU YO3 FCA.
Right... so once the QSO is saved, then click Cancel or the "X" and it will close it. We could probably add an option to close the ALE automatically after adding a QSO.
Thanks for the update, I know it must be frustrating trying to get rid of the elephant in the room. Honestly I struggle to understand how the development is funded, all those hours of development work. I'm waiting paitently for the move from MS in the logbook, but for what I do with it I can wait until you are ready. I will continue to support the work by renewing each year Keep strong and thanks for the development work you are doing.
The developers tell me the software will be able to run on an iPad when it can run on Mac. But I still have concerns about some radios that don't have an IP path to them (there are no serial ports on an iPad). We'll see how it goes.
Yes. Future versions will support MySQL, MariaDB, and MS SQL because we've got many "Multi-Multi" contest and club stations out there who need to be able to network the log. But that said, for single users, SQLite will be exceptional for speed.
Looks like you never managed to release 6.9 in time for Christmas. For general use, I still prefer using HRD over the others that I have tried, Winlog32, Logger32 etc.
When you try to make something that does everything it becomes very complicated. Improving it is very complicated. I am not a user, but I am considering it.
Understood. But... if not for the fact that we've built all this functionality into one single suite of software, it would be left to you to figure out how to cobble together 20 other less functional applications to build your own "suite."
Well Ed... you've own the license and you're always entitled to use the software. Let us know if you need anything. I see you on FT8 rather often... I've put about 5,000 QSOs in the log in the past 24 months with Ham Radio Deluxe and WSJT-X. Hope to work you sometime.
Rather than I re-type the answer, it's worth checking out the answer I provided to another response on this. But the short story is... MySQL is retained.
I’m sure your developers are dedicated and invested in this, but please look out for their well-being, and don’t let them work silly hours for the sake of an unachievable deadline. I’d rather wait a few extra months than have your devs work themselves to pieces.
I see that big p on the front of your laptop hoping that stands for packet can't wait for you to add packet keyboarding to the list of other goodies you've got in the bag yes we are still keyboarding and yes we are still using ax 25
Same here. I've been developing Windows software for thirty years and just went into semi-retirement. I've seen projects come and go, languish and grow. When you are dealing with old legacy code, problems crop up every single day WITHOUT fail. Upgrading code this old is expensive and time consuming. I've seen it time and time again and I get it. I encourage users to renew their subscription to help infuse cash into the project. - K8STS
Well, it's a "labor of love." And I LOVE the idea of getting rid of Access and all the other (frankly) "zombie code" that doesn't need to be laying around anymore.
Its a good change and progres;. I see nothing abbout Castles?Wel POTA etc. I hope that its not the data base from the states only? I am ready to pay for this nice upgrade,if it is so.I am using HRD for more than 20 yaers now and i have a ful license for upgrade free.
I haven't seen any need to renew at the moment. There has been nothing new and currently everything I use is working correctly. I'm willing to bet you have seen a drop off in renewals because of this. Suggestion, especially if you need money is to have a renew now but your year doesn't start until the next release.
Well, it's for sure that ham radio sales across all ham radio retailers has decreased this year versus prior. We hear that from our dealers. But remember, renewals help fund development. So yes, a decrease in renewals absolutely equates to a slow-down in development. That could happen.
Thanks for the update, I am sure things take a longtime and unforeseen problems keep popping up but, I am like many other users no update on progress is not good. Have you looked at your Facebook or Twitter account, there is nothing it looks like you no longer exist. A few lines on your different platforms helps lay any fears. My auto renewal for another 12 months was today the 14th. I decided to let it run, but this week I very nearly cancelled it, so you are on borrowed time. So keep updates coming a few lines on your webpage is all it needs.
Please start with your elevator speech with the key points. Think like you are presenting an update to your manager. Sorry, I don't have the patience for these RU-vid videos with all the banter. A partially satisfied customer that has been whirling patiently for several years and still waiting for correct microwave frequency logging (current 32 bit schema vs planned 64 bit schema). Ron WB2WGH
Feedback accepted, but after all these years, I don't think I can change my presentation style. And the logging of microwave frequencies is already fixed and tested in this version.
I love your software and I keep finding things I needed but didn't realise it could do. And when I've needed help, I've got wonderful support. But this video - I gave up after 3 minutes. Please - buy some microphones. And talk to me (the camera), and not each other. Your email said "It's a whole lot easier to get complicated points across in spoken words than in writing." but really it's not. A reader can consume written words (and diagrams) at his or her own pace, and go back and re-read anything they didn't get the first time. Spoken words are linear, and at your speed, not mine.
Very disappointed in this software and the support that they are supposed to give you I bought the full package 5 months ago I suffer with dyslexic and I have asked lords that I am struggling to set it up nobody ever seems very disappointed 😔😔
There are no excuses... only straight talk about the current state. But like I said in my support case response to you, the software works. I'm happy to assist you personally under support as outlined in the email I sent you.
@@HamRadioDeluxe interesting, it does not all work. I got good support that is not the gripe. I also heard several times yes we are aware of it not working and our goal is to fix it in next edition. Gaslighting 101. Best of luck.
I have no idea what specifically is going on with your particular unique installation, but we're willing to take a look at it under the circumstances. "It" does a lot of things. Far too many of us use "it" every day with no problems at all. So let's get this all squared away for you.
@@HamRadioDeluxe dude, my comment is simply meant to inform potential customers of what they may find after purchasing your software. Some people may not use all the features or they might and my comments are accurate and a true reflection of some features not working and the excuse I heard. No need to repeat my myself. So there is my experience. I would be embarrassed that features did not work and it appears that it does and you could kill the features and simply bring them back when they work. Anyone paying money for something has a right to point out the pitfalls. I will not point out that 3 developers must not be enough. I guess I did. Support is not helpful when the software problem is code related. Lots of things that work. My comment, again is some don't. At the point in its lifecycle your gracious offer of customer support would not be effective. Roll up those sleeves and be a fourth. Best of luck.
I'm just saying that - if there are things that aren't working for you, please contact our support team directly. There's a really good chance they can help you.
