How to Select Ham Radio Software

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Since the very beginnings of ham radio in the year 1900, amateur radio enthusiasts, often known as DXers, have often been at the forefront of radio technology. As savvy electronics and technology people, ham radio operators have, over the years, integrated computers and specialized ham radio software into the mix. Today, you can select ham radio software for just about any ham radio purpose, from antenna design to logging.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Computer, PC or Mac
Ample memory space in your computer for larger programs

Select the Right Ham Radio Software

Step 1

Start simply with your ham radio rig and discover what types of ham radio software programs might be helpful as you go.
Step 2

Consult with your local amateur radio club's Elmers who have recommendations for what to look for in a particular program, based on the equipment you're using.
Step 3

Log onto DXSoft (see Resources below) or other large online resource to find popular ham radio software programs.
Step 4

Check for screen shots and other helpful descriptors that outline what you can expect to see within the program.
Step 5

Verify that the program you select has all of the bells and whistles you need and want and that the program will run on your machine.
Step 6

Download the program from the site and register it.

Tips & Warnings

As with many aspects of ham radio, asking fellow hams can be one of the most fruitful ways to select software. Your fellow hams, particularly those who are more experienced, will have tried many programs out there and most have strong opinions as to what they have recommend and what they don't.
If you're on a limited budget, it can help to sit down and prioritize your needs. For instance, if you're contesting and find that manually logging your contacts is truly cumbersome, then a good logging program may be in order. Conversely, if you're looking at amateur radio art programs, these may not be as vital to your basic operation. Buy your software only as your needs arise.
Before you spend money on new ham radio software, be sure that it offers something that you cannot find already among the Internet's many freeware sites for ham radio. It can help to run the idea by fellow hams, as well, so be sure they agree that the purchase is a wise one.

Resources