[CQ-Contest] WR Column topic: Computer vs. Paper logging

[Art Boyars]

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