V rádioamatérskom svete, kde sekundy rozhodujú o umiestnení v celosvetových rebríčkoch, je voľba denníka (loggera) kritickým rozhodnutím. Zatiaľ čo mnohí začínajú s jednoduchými programami, skutoční „contestmani“ skôr či neskôr narazia na meno DXLog.net. Originally developed with an emphasis on speed, stability and extreme customizability, this software has become the standard for elite stations and expeditions around the world.
In what follows, we'll take a detailed look at what makes DXLog special, how to configure it, and why it should be your first choice for your next race.
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10 key tips for DXLog.net
| Tip / Shortcut key | Function | Why use it? |
| "Assisted" category | Checking the display of spots in the bandmap. | If you don't see spots, make sure you don't have a category set Unassisted. |
| ESM mode | Enter Sends Message | Once activated, it intelligently predicts the next step. Dramatically reduces the number of keystrokes required. |
| SO2V (Single Op 2 VFO) | Operation on two VFOs with one radio. | Increases productivity even with one radio - you transmit on one VFO, look for multipliers on the other. |
[Shift] + [Ctrl] + [↑] / [↓] |
Jump to the nearest one multiplier in the bandmap. | Don't waste time with regular stations. This jump will throw you directly onto a new land or zone. |
[Shift] + [↑] / [↓] |
RIT control (in Run mode). | It allows you to fine-tune the station calling you "off-frequency" without ever leaving the keyboard. |
[Alt] + [K] |
A window for live broadcasting from the keyboard. | Ideal for quick "conversation" in telegraphy (CW) or digital modes without the need to change macros. |
[Ctrl] + [Alt] + [R] |
Reset hardware interfaces (command RESET). |
Saves you from RFI or static issues that "freeze" communication with the radio or key fob. |
[Ctrl] + [Alt] + [ + ] |
Forced enrollment QSO (Force log). | If you don't like the check code but want to save the connection "as is" without validation, this is the way to go. |
Entering the locator + [Space] |
Calculation of distance and azimuth. | Just write a 6-digit locator in the tag field and the program will immediately tell you where to turn the antenna. |
Holding [Ctrl] at start |
Reset the layout of the program. | If the program doesn't start properly or your windows get "scattered", this restores a clean setup without losing data. |
Bonus tip for connoisseurs
If you are participating in an expedition or have a huge "pile-up", try [Alt] + [Q] (Intelligent Quick QSL). The program will automatically shorten the confirmation message at the end of the QSO based on the rate to keep the speed as high as possible.
DXLog.net Philosophy: Speed First
DXLog.net is a powerful competition log for Windows, based on the philosophy of old-school radio amateur software (such as the legendary CT for DOS), but transferred to a modern graphical environment. Its main goal is minimize interaction with the mouse. V horúčave contestu, kedy musíte nadviazať 200 spojení za hodinu, nemáte čas Search tlačidlá na obrazovke. Všetko – od prepínania pásiem až po konfiguráciu hardvéru – je dostupné cez klávesové skratky.
Installation and first steps
Installing DXLog is straightforward, but requires the .NET Framework. Once launched, you'll be greeted with a clean interface that you can fully customize. Unlike other programs that are "cursed" to one fixed window, DXLog.net works on the basis floating windows.
Main components of the interface:
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Log Window: List of established connections.
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Entry Window: The heart of the program, where you enter brands and received codes.
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Check Window: Instant check if you have already worked with the given station (DUPE check) and what multipliers it can bring you.
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Band Map: Visual display of stations on a band picked up from a DX cluster or by custom tuning.
Hardware configuration: CAT and WinKeyer
One of DXLog's strongest points is its ability to communicate with almost any modern (and vintage) radio. In the menu Options -> Device Config you can set:
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CAT interface: Support for Icom, Kenwood, Elecraft, Yaesu and FlexRadio. The program enables precise frequency and mode control.
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CW manipulation: Natively supports DXLog.net WinKeyer, which ensures perfect telegraphy timing regardless of the computer's processor load. If you don't have WinKeyer, you can use classic LPT or COM ports.
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co2yr (Single Operator 2 Radios): DXLog.net is the leader in supporting operation on two radios at the same time. It includes advanced scenarios for switching headphones, blocking simultaneous transmissions and automating antenna switching.
Journaling and Automation (ESM)
To increase efficiency, DXLog.net implements a mode ESM (Enter Sends Message). In this mode, the program intelligently anticipates your next step:
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If you enter a mark and press Enter, the program will send a code (eg 599 001).
- If you press Enter after receiving the code, the program will log the connection and send "TU" or "QRZ". This automated cycle dramatically reduces operator fatigue during 48-hour marathons.
Macros and scripts
DXLog.net allows you to define custom macros for CW, SSB (via internal digital voice keyer - DVK) and digital modes. If the predefined functions are not enough for you, DXLog.net includes Scripting Engine. Using C#, you can write your own scripts that react to events in the log - for example, automatically switching the antenna rotator when a mark is entered from a certain azimuth.
Network operation and Multi-Op
If you plan to operate in the Multi-Operator category, DXLog.net offers one of the most stable network protocols on the market.
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Real-time synchronization: All stations in the network see each new connection immediately.
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Gab Window: Internal chat for operators to not be disturbed by talking in hamshack.
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Status Window: The lead operator has an overview of which band the station is on and what its current "rate" (number of QSOs per hour) is.
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Smart numbering: The program ensures that there is no duplication of serial numbers in multi-transmitter mode, even in the event of a network connection failure (data will be automatically synchronized after reconnection).
Digital modes and integration
Although DXLog.net is primarily seen as a CW/SSB tool, its integration for digital operation is robust. Supports:
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MMTTY / MMVARI: For classic RTTY.
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Fldigi: For a wide range of digital modes.
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WSJT-X / JTDX: Cez externé prepojenia môžete efektívne logovať spojenia v módoch FT8 a FT4 directly into the race log, which is crucial for the modern races that these mods allow.
Competition database and rules
DXLog.net has a database of hundreds of competitions - from global giants like CQ WW DX, up to local races (including many Czech and Slovak competitions).
The program automatically:
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It counts points according to specific rules (distance, continents, own country).
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Tracks multipliers (countries, zones, districts, prefects).
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Notifies of errors in received code based on databases (Super Check Partial).
Advanced features for experts
For those who want to get the most out of technology, DXLog.net offers:
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Scenario Manager: Allows you to define what should happen to the audio signal and broadcast when a certain key is pressed in SO2R mode.
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Live Score: Automatic sending of results to servers like contest Online Scoreboard, where you can compete with your colleagues in real time.
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Omini-Rig integration: For those who prefer sharing CAT data between multiple programs at the same time.
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Support for SDR: The possibility of connection with panoramic receivers (panadapters), where by clicking on the signal on the waterfall, you automatically retune the radio and transfer the frequency to the diary.
Práca s logom po pretekoch
After the competition is over, it is important to export the journal correctly. DXLog.net generates:
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Cabrillo: Standard for sending competition logs.
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ADIF: For import into your main station log or services like LoTW a eQSL.
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Statistics: Detailed graphs and charts to show you which hour you were most successful, which direction the most stations came from and which bands were key for you.
Conclusion: Why choose DXLog.net?
DXLog.net is not just software, it is a tool that teaches you to be a better operator. Its austere but purposeful interface forces you to focus on what matters - the ether. With regular updates and a strong community around the development team (originally led by 9A5K, now managed by the community), DXLog.net is always ready for new rules and technologies.
Helpful tip: If you are new to DXLog, don't overdo it with the settings. Start with one radio, configure basic CW/SSB messages and gradually discover the power of shortcuts and automation.