[Skimmertalk] ViewProp: propagation analysis using Skimmer data

[Rick Kiessig]

I’ve been working on some software over the last few months for visualizing
*your* HF propagation using spots from CW Skimmer and cluster servers,
including the RBN. To help me find any remaining issues, I’m looking for a
few beta testers.

The software is called ViewProp. Basically, the way it works is this:  You
enter your call and lat/lon and the connection details for up to three
Skimmers or clusters.  ViewProp then determines which spots are coming *to
or from* the area near you, plots them in real-time on a map provided by
DXAtlas, and puts them in a sortable table. It also creates real-time charts
that show which bands are open *for you* and how active they are.  Would you
like to know when each band is at its peak?  Or when certain beam headings
are most active? ViewProp can tell you.

In addition to ViewProp, you will need DXAtlas (you can download a
full-featured 30-day trial, if you don’t already have it). If you have a
qrz.com XML subscription, you can use it to enhance the accuracy with which
ViewProp locates both spotters and spotted stations, but it is not
absolutely necessary, particularly for a trial.

I use ViewProp every day myself, and have found it to be a useful planning
tool for both DX and contesting. There's something very empowering about
being able to instantly visualize current propagation that's based on
measurements rather than simulations.

I'm looking for unfiltered opinions of savvy computer-using DXers and
contesters on how useful the software is for you, what features might make
it better, and help finding bugs or usability issues.

I’ve set up a simple 1-page Wiki with more details and a few screenshots:
http://zl2ham.wikispaces.com/

If you would be interested in being a beta tester, please let me know
off-list, and I’ll send you a copy.

73, Rick ZL2HAM