[Skimmertalk] ViewProp: propagation analysis using Skimmer data

[Dave AA6YQ]

DXLab does something similar. Using up two 6 spot sources (including the RBN) as input, it maintains a local database with one entry
for each active DX station, determines the locations of both spotting and spotted stations, and plots spots on its built-in world
map or on DX Atlas. You can independently filter your view of the active DX database, and filter the set of spots that are plotted
on DX Atlas. For example, here's the set of spots filtered to show only 6m activity, revealing a transatlantic Es opening:

< http://www.dxlabsuite.com/dxview/DX%20Atlas%206m.jpg>

DXLab also includes graphical propagation prediction (using the included IONCAP, ICEPAC, or VOACAP engines) and propagation
monitoring (via the NCDXC HF beacon network).

For more detail about "DXing with DXLab and the RBN", see <http://www.dxlabsuite.com/RBN/index.htm>

Having this sort of information handy makes a huge difference in knowing where and when to listen for needed DX.

      73,

             Dave, AA6YQ



-----Original Message-----
From: Skimmertalk [mailto:skimmertalk-bounces at contesting.com] On Behalf Of Rick Kiessig
Sent: Tuesday, February 19, 2013 8:55 PM
To: skimmertalk at contesting.com
Subject: [Skimmertalk] ViewProp: propagation analysis using Skimmer data

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


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