[VHFcontesting] Survey Results - Contest Software

[Rob Shapiro - ND3A]

Earlier this Fall, I queried the contest community regarding contest
logging software requirements for use at the W3SO mountaintop site in
Altoona, Pennsylvania.  W3SO currently utilizes CT but is looking to
change.  The requirements posed were as follows:
 
ARRL and CQ VHF contests to include ease of handling QSOs with rovers.
.           HF contests to include the Pennsylvania QSO Party
.           Windows or Windows-like operating system
.           Easy and reliable networking for up to 6 station positions
.           CW keying
.           Digital Voice Keying (if possible)
.           Minimization of cost (secondary to above requirements)
 
I received many replies to my query, addressing the requirements to
various degrees, from little to all.  The following is a summary of the
replies:
 
N1MM
*	Handles the VHF contests.  Rovers are treated by just typing in
their call then modifying the grid as appropriate.  No need to type in
call/R.
*	HF contests to include PA QSO Party
*	Supports computer networking
*	Windows plus use of function keys
*	CW keying
*	Uses sound card for voice keying but also W9XT and others
*	Cost - FREE
 
Writelog
*	HF and VHF contests to include PA QSO Party
*	CT-like treatment of rovers, e.g. call/GRID
*	Computer networking
*	Windows
*	CW generation via parallel port with XP
*	Sound card for voice keying
*	Cost - US$75.  Additional $5 charge for the CD, no additional
charge for download via internet.
 
N3FJP
*	HF and VHF contests to include PA QSO Party.  Each contest
appears to be available as a separate downloadable module - not one
integrated software.  Please someone correct me in I'm wrong.
*	Cost - separate cost for each contest package or one price for
all.
*	Says rover operation is supported but provides no details
*	Supports network operation
*	CW and voice keying supported
*	Windows
 
RoverLog
*	All VHF contests - no HF
*	Cost - FREE
*	Supports networked PCs
*	CW and voice keying
*	Interfaces with transceivers, rotors and GPS
 
Given the information I have, I am going to recommend to the W3SO crew
that we go with N1MM.  Supports our requirements plus is free.  We may
also wish to investigate RoverLog.  Would cost us nothing to do so and
may have some advantages over N1MM with the VHF contests.  Lot's of
great feedback regarding WriteLog, but does have a cost.
 
Regards, Rob  ND3A