Online QSL generator
Via a reddit post this morning, I found out about the HamRadar.Com QSL Generator. This is a nice bit of online software that will generate electronic QSL cards quickly for you. Fill in a form, select a background image and bingo, you have a downloadable QSL card. See figure at right for an example.
I love the selection of (presumably public domain and freely usable) background images. As you may know, I love operating from lighthouses, and Michigan has the most lighthouses of any state in the union, so I chose a lighthouse to use as the background image for the example at right.
- Make it an option to generate a 3×5 image, which would look more like a traditional QSL card.
- Make an option to make the information box smaller.
- Be able to move the information box to the right, left, bottom, or top, so that the background image is more visible.
XYL calling
Lately, I’ve had several contacts end with the other operator saying something like, “My XYL is calling, so I have to go” or “My wife needs some help, so I have to QRT.” Just for kicks, I’d like to find out how many really do have a wife who is calling or needs help and how many are just using this as an excuse.
Personally, I never use this excuse on the air. I just say, “Well, time to QRT here” or “time for a break here.” It’s not fair to put the onus on one’s wife.
TX5S
I did not manage to work the Clipperton Island DXpedition. I heard them calling on 30 meter CW last night, but there was still a pretty big pileup. They were S6, so without the pileup, I’m pretty confident that I would have been able to work them.
This morning, I checked their website, and they say that today is the last day of the DXpedition. It’s doubtful that I’ll be able to get them in the log today. Maybe next time.
I don’t initiate digital QSLs, but when I receive one I respond using the PA4R software. Works quite well.