Chapter 14
Computers in Your Ham Station
IN THIS CHAPTER
Selecting a computer
Working with computers in the ham station
Logging your contacts
Exchanging QSL cards
Originally used as a replacement for the paper logbook, the computer in ham radio has evolved nearly to the point of becoming a second operator, controlling radios, sending and receiving CW and digital messages, and linking your station to thousands of others through the Internet. As I discuss in the previous chapter, the computer is often part of today’s radio.
Regardless of what operating system you prefer, software tools and programs are available to help you enjoy any type of operating you like. Some software is supplied by commercial businesses, and the amateur community has developed an amazing amount of shareware and freeware. Hams freely contribute their expertise in any number of ways, and developing software is a very popular activity.
What Type of Computers Do Hams Use?
What type of computer you use really depends on the job you want it to do. Let’s start with some resources for the main types or platforms ...
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