Radio amateurs using a computer to control their transceivers, rotors, or amplifiers are well aware of the project hamlib - a universal library and set of tools for CAT control of devices. However, up to now, Windows users often found that Hamlib is primarily a Linux project and its setup in the Windows environment may be less convenient.
This is exactly what the application solves hamlib UI, created by Bruno, CS8ABG. It is a clear graphical interface (GUI) that significantly simplifies downloading, configuring, and running services rigctld,rotctldaampctld directly on Windows 10 and Windows 11.
What is Hamlib UI?
Hamlib UI is a graphical environment for:
managing the installation of Hamlib,
configuration of CAT parameters for radio, rotor, and amplifier,
starting and stopping Hamlib daemons,
displaying process output in real time.
The application gathers all the important features of Hamlib into one simple window. It is suitable for beginners and advanced operators who want to quickly and reliably configure CAT control without using the command line.
Key features
Automatic download of the latest Hamlib
Hamlib UI can directly download and install the current release of Hamlib from GitHub.
After launching:
it will create a folder in the same directory Hamlib,
and store all necessary binaries in it.
Users do not have to manually search for the correct version or unpack archives.
List of supported devices
With one button, you can display:
all supported radios (rigs),
available rotators,
Supported Amplifiers.
Hamlib UI displays information directly from the Hamlib library, so it is always up to date.
Easy CAT and PTT configuration
Configuration commonly includes parameters such as:
COM port (automatic detection of available ports),
transmission speed,
CI-V address,
TCP port for rigctld,
PTT method (CAT, RTS/DTR, external control),
other detailed settings according to the device.
Everything is clearly arranged in one GUI and there is no need to remember Hamlib commands.
Start and stop daemons with one click
Hamlib UI supports:
rigctld (radio CAT control),
rotctld (rotators),
ampctld (amplifiers).
After starting, the application displays:
real-time process output,
Hamlib messages,
any errors or disconnections.
This is very useful for debugging configuration.
Automatic configuration saving
The application remembers the last setting and automatically restores it after the next start.
It makes everyday use easier, especially for continuous CAT operation or digital modes.
Easy installation for Windows
Hamlib UI is distributed as a standalone Windows .exe filewhich does not require:
Python installation,
manual Hamlib configuration,
external libraries.
How to start:
Download hamlibUI.exe from GitHub Releases.
Run the program.
Hamlib UI automatically creates a folder Hamlib with the necessary binaries.
From now on, you can immediately configure and start rigctld or rotctld.
Supported platforms
Windows 10
Windows 11
(64-bit system recommended)
License
Hamlib UI is published under MIT licenseso it can be freely used, modified, and distributed in accordance with the license terms.
Conclusion
Hamlib UI by CS8ABG brings an intuitive way to use Hamlib on Windows without working in the command line. It offers:
quick installation,
easy configuration of CAT parameters,
clear daemon launching,
automatic settings saving,
convenient log output.
For radio amateurs using software requiring the Hamlib interface, hamlib UI is a practical tool that saves time and significantly simplifies working with devices.