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What is Ham Radio Deluxe® and what is it for
Ham Radio Deluxe® (HRD) is a software suite designed for radio amateurs, integrating multiple modules - especially Rig Control, Logbook, Digital Master (DM-780), Satellite Tracking a Rotor Control. These modules cooperate so that the operator can effectively control their station (HF, VHF, UHF), manage the log, use digital modes, track satellites or rotate antennas with a rotator. The software allows integration with the DX cluster, automatic call sign search, support for modes such as FT8/FT4, WSJT-X, but also export QSO to services like LoTW, Clublog or eQSL.
For a radio amateur, this means the ability to centralize operation, logging and digital modes within one environment - it is a significant simplification of ham station management.
News in version 6.9
HRD developers announced that version 6.9 brings a series of fundamental changes - it is the most significant software overhaul in the product's history. Main improvements include:

1. Redesigned database and core application
Replacement of the original Microsoft Access database with a module SQLite brings higher stability, faster data processing, and better log backup.
The technological basis of the user interface has also been changed - the original MFC has been replaced by a framework Qt, which allows modernization of GUI, better support for high resolution, and greater flexibility in developing future features., which will allow for GUI modernization, better high-resolution support, and more flexibility in developing future features.
2. More stations, more options
Version 6.9 supports unlimited number of operational stations (station locations) — a practical feature for operators with multiple stations or locations — this is a practical feature if the operator operates multiple stations or has more QTH. The feature includes support for split/microwave frequencies, expanding options for VHF/UHF/Microwave operation.
3. Integration of cloud and modern services
Support has been added OAuth pre Gmail/Yahoo upozornenia, kontextová nápoveda s odkazom priamo na online manuál a prepojenie na mapy a obrázky cez QRZ databázu or HamQTH.
Logbook now offers new visual elements such as map display, caller ID images, and historical solar data since 1899 — a feature appreciated by DX operators and solar activity enthusiasts.
4. Modern dark design mode ('Dark Mode')
Band operators working in low-light environments will appreciate the new 'Dark Mode' in the Logbook module — reduced contrast and fewer distracting colors mean more comfortable operation during nighttime hours.
Why you should seriously consider upgrading to version 6.9
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If you have multiple QTHs or operate multiple stations, support for an unlimited number of stations is a great advantage.
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Do you use digital modes (e.g. FT8, FT4) or DXing? The new database and improved log integration will significantly facilitate this.
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Do you also appreciate technical details and follow solar statistics or DX maps? Version 6.9 offers greatly enhanced visibility of information.
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If you work at night or in low-light environments, whether in contests or DX expeditions, 'Dark Mode' is a welcome feature.
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Developers have fixed 'over 120' old bugs and improved the core of the software — this means higher reliability and modern architecture.
The license is perpetual — after a one-time purchase of the software key, you have the program forever. The price is 99 USD for downloading the version. After a year, you have the option (but not the obligation) to renew 12 months of support for 49.95 USD. If you are looking for a reliable tool for station management, logging, digital modes, and DX communication — the new HRD version is worth considering. More at Ham Radio Deluxe
