K9GX wants info for a column: "Computer vs. Paper logging: which is faster and
more efficient?"
Since I was the last semi-serious contester to make the switch, let me give you
a simple answer: Computer.
Yes, there is the bother of setting it up -- getting the software, installing
it, interfacing the hardware (might not apply to new radios). And yes, you
have to learn to type a little (I still look at the keyboard), and that can be
be exacerbated if you are still learing to copy the contest reports. I was
learning to copy 'phone at the same time I was learning computer logging. And
yes, you have to learn how to USE the software; most of the stuff has too many
features for a newcomer, and, unles it starts itself in a simple mode, might be
overwhelming.
But once you get over the small hump in the learning curve, there is no
comparison. #1 (tie) Less fatigue during the contest. #1 (tie) No dupe sheet.
#1 (tie) Almost zero post-contest processing ("Is that an 's' or a '5'???");
simplified submissions. #4 Useful data right in front of you, instead of being
scattered among several pieces of paper (country prefix lists; beam headings;
sunrise/sunset times). #5 Integrated station control possible (no more trying
to work that rare mult on 15 with the 80M sloper, or trying to transmit on 20M
with the amplier set for 40M). #6 Current statistics readily available for
adjusting strategy.... And that's just a start.
And it's cheap. There is plenty of low-cost, even free, software. Aand people
will almost pay you to take away adequate computers and monitors.
And it makes it easier on the volunteers and on the underpaid professional
sponsors.
Whether you want to improve your score/performance, or if you just want to have
more fun with less work, computer logging is the way to go.
73, Art K3KU
Last of the paper loggers
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