eQSL (electronic QSL card)

eQSL is an electronic system that allows hams to exchange QSL cards digitally. It is a modern alternative to the traditional printed QSL cards that are usually sent by post. Here is a detailed explanation of how eQSL works in amateur radio:

 

1. Register with eQSL.cc
To use eQSL, hams must create an account on the eQSL.cc website:

  • Registration: The hams register on the website and enter their personal details and callsign.
  • Authentication: To ensure that the call sign entered is genuine, in many cases the user must verify their identity. This can be done by uploading a copy of the amateur radio licence or by confirming a code sent by post to the registered address.

 

2. Uploading and managing log files
Once registered, hams can upload their log files:

  • Log file formats: eQSL accepts several log file formats, but the most common is ADIF (Amateur Data Interchange Format). Log files contain details of QSOs such as date, time, frequency, type of modulation and the call sign of the other radio amateur.
  • Automatic upload: Many ham radio logbook programs offer the option of automatically sending QSOs to eQSL, making the process seamless and efficient.

 

3. Creating and sending eQSL cards
Once the log data has been uploaded, the user can create eQSL cards:

  • Design the eQSL card: Users can personalise their eQSL cards with their own designs, images and information. Cards can include call sign, station information, pictures of the hams or their location, and other details.
  • Sending eQSL's: After uploading a log, eQSL automatically generates an eQSL card for each QSO and sends it to the recipients whose callsigns are included in the log.

 

4. Receiving eQSL cards
Receiving eQSL cards is just as easy:

  • Notification: When an eQSL card is received, the hams are notified by email or can log into their eQSL account to view the card.
  • View and confirm: eQSL cards can be viewed and verified online. The recipient can compare the details on the card with their log and save the eQSL as a confirmation.

 

5. Use for awards and diplomas
Similar to traditional QSL cards, eQSL cards can be used to apply for awards and diplomas:

  • eQSL Authenticity Guaranteed (AG) status: To ensure that an eQSL is valid for awards, users must obtain Authenticity Guaranteed (AG) status, which is achieved through additional verifications. This status confirms that the eQSL is authentic and comes from a verified user.
  • Diplomas from eQSL.cc: eQSL.cc itself offers a number of diplomas that can be used with eQSL cards, such as the eDX100 diploma (confirming QSOs with 100 different countries).

 

6. Advantages of eQSL

  • Speed and cost savings: Compared to printed QSL cards that have to be mailed, eQSL is much faster and less expensive. There are no postage costs and confirmations are in near real time.
  • Environmentally friendly: By eliminating the need to print and mail physical cards, eQSL is also an environmentally friendly option.
  • Easy to access and manage: All eQSL cards can be stored and managed online, making it easy to organise and search for specific QSOs.

 

7. Disadvantages of eQSL

  • Lack of feel: Some hams value physical QSL cards as collectibles and memorabilia, which is not the case with eQSL cards.
  • Acceptance for certain awards: Not all Amateur Radio organisations and awards accept eQSL cards as proof, especially if the cards do not have AG status.

 

Conclusion
eQSL is a flexible and efficient system that allows radio amateurs to confirm QSOs quickly and easily. It complements the traditional practice of physical QSL cards and offers a practical alternative, especially in today's digital world. It has established itself as a valuable tool for the global amateur radio community, enabling hams to effectively document and confirm their contacts.