Petr OK2CQR, released version 3.3.0 of the open-source station log CQRLOG for Linux and macOS. This version brings fundamental changes in working with Reverse beacon network and bandmaps, fixing long-standing issues with the database interface, and improving integration with online services.
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RBN and band maps
The biggest innovation is the redesigned RBN connection architecture. All consumers – monitor, band maps and grayline – share one TCP connection. Closing the monitor window no longer interrupts the reception of spots for other parts of the program. The new RBN control window (accessible via New QSO → Window) displays connection status, allows server selection from presets and global filter settings. The connection to RBN can be automated at the start of the program.
Bandmaps now support multiple windows open at the same time. Each window can track a VFO or display a fixed band with its own range and filter. The filter allows you to filter out stations that have already worked according to a global rule, time range or date, or limit the display to stations with LoTW or eQSL. Membership in clubs is optionally displayed for callsigns. The check of completed stations takes place in the background with a shared cache - the program does not freeze with a large volume of spots or a remote database server.
Database and compatibility with MariaDB
CQRLOG switches to utf8mb4 character set for database connection. Four-byte characters - for example emoticons from callbook entries - are stored correctly. Existing tables are converted automatically when the new version is first launched, which may take longer with a large log. Database connections are checked every 5 minutes and are automatically restored in case of failure. The same logic applies to the RBN and DX cluster - the program detects a silent disconnection and reconnects.
Hamlib and TRX control
Fixed an issue with rigctld where backlogs were accumulating when the transceiver was turned off. After turning the radio back on, the commands got stuck and the steering became unresponsive. Version 3.3.0 treats this condition. The manual editing of the frequency, which failed after turning off the radio during operation, is also fixed.
Online services and LoTW
Exporting to LoTW allows signing and sending in one step. If the upload fails, the signed file is kept and offered again on the next attempt. The program displays the number of sent QSOs. Integration with HamQTH switched to API v2 – callbook search, DX cluster and log recording use a new interface. A new feature allows you to report the transceiver's frequency and mode on HamQTH, so other operators can see that you are on the air.
Bug fixes
The grayline map had a shadow shifted by 45 to 105 minutes depending on the season - the calculation of the Sun's position is corrected. A transaction error during a QSL lookup or IOTA import left the transaction open, causing other operations to fail. WinKeyer "Pot speed" function works on macOS, Flatpak and Snap. Locator with subsquare entered in lowercase letters generated incorrect coordinates.
Installation and compilation
An RPM package (Qt6) is available for Fedora 44. The make rpm or make docker-rpm commands provide compilation from sources. Source codes and binary packages are available on GitHub https://github.com/ok2cqr/cqrlog