SWISSLOG Logging-Software

Swisslog is a comprehensive logbook software for radio amateurs, offering a wide range of functions to facilitate the management of QSO data (radio contacts) and working with DX stations. The software was originally developed by Walter Bauer, HB9BJS, and is now maintained by Jordi, EA3GCV. Swisslog is particularly popular in Europe, but is also used worldwide. It is available free of charge and offers a wide range of features that make it one of the most powerful logbooks for radio amateurs.


Swisslog's main features and functions

 

Comprehensive logbook management:

  • Swisslog makes it easy to record and manage QSOs. The software supports all common operating modes and bands, and can easily handle thousands of entries.
  • The logbook provides detailed information on each QSO, including callsign, date, time, frequency, mode, signal strength and more.

 

DX Cluster integration:

  • Swisslog seamlessly integrates with DX cluster networks and displays real-time DX messages. Users can click on DX stations directly from the cluster to automatically tune their transceiver.
  • The software offers filter functions to sort the displayed DX messages according to user-defined criteria such as country, band or mode.

 

Connection to online logbooks:

  • Swisslog supports the export and import of logbook data in ADIF format and can be synchronised directly with online logbooks such as Logbook of The World (LoTW), eQSL, Club Log and HRDLog.
  • There is also a direct upload facility to these services, making it quick and easy to confirm QSOs online.

 

Transceiver control:

  • The software supports CAT (Computer Aided Transceiver) interfaces for radio control. Users can change frequencies, switch modes and control other transceiver functions directly from Swisslog.
  • This integration makes Swisslog a central control point for the entire station.

 

Statistics and analysis:

  • Swisslog offers extensive evaluation and reporting functions that allow users to analyse their radio activities. These include statistics on QSO points, multipliers, DXCC units, WAZ zones, IOTA islands and more.
  • The software can also generate graphs showing activity over time or on specific bands and modes.

 

Award management:

  • Swisslog supports the management of many amateur radio awards such as DXCC, WAS, WAZ, IOTA, WPX and many more.
  • The software automatically compares the QSOs stored in the log with the requirements of the various awards, so users can easily see which awards they are missing.

 

Network operation:

  • Swisslog can be networked, allowing multiple users to access the same logbook at the same time. This is particularly useful for multi-operator or club stations.
  • Network support allows for centralised administration and data backup.

 

Competition support:

  • Although Swisslog is primarily designed as a logbook software, it also offers features for participating in radio contests. Users can create contest entries and integrate their results directly into the logbook.
  • However, the software is not as dedicated to contesting as programs such as N1MM Logger+, making it more suitable for occasional contesting.

 

User-defined fields and customisation:

  • Swisslog offers the ability to create custom fields and entries, allowing the software to be flexibly adapted to the user's specific needs.
  • This makes it possible to enter additional information such as notes, special QSL details or customised QSO categories.

        
 Automated QSL Management:

  • The software offers extensive QSL card management features, including QSL label printing and support for electronic QSL services.
  • Swisslog can automatically track which QSOs have been confirmed and which are awaiting confirmation, making QSL card management much easier.

 

Multi-language support:

  • Swisslog is available in multiple languages, including English, German, Spanish and others, making it easy to use for non-English speaking users.

 

Regular updates and community support:

  • The software is regularly updated to add new features and fix bugs. The developers are active in the ham radio community and respond to user feedback and requests.
  • There is also an active user group offering tips, tricks and support.

 

Applications:

  • Logbook management: Swisslog is ideal for hams who need a powerful and flexible logbook to record and manage their QSOs.
  • DXing and awards: Full support for DX clusters and awards makes Swisslog an excellent choice for DXers and award collectors.
  • Multi-operator stations: Swisslog's network capability also makes it suitable for club or multi-operator stations that require centralised logbook management.

 

Conclusion:

Swisslog is a powerful and versatile logbook software that offers a wide range of features to facilitate the operation and management of an amateur radio station. It is particularly useful for DXers and award collectors, but also provides solid support for contesting and general logbook management. Extensive customisation and statistics functions, as well as integration with online logbooks and transceivers, make Swisslog a valuable tool for any radio amateur.