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Introduction to N1MM Logger. Confessions of A Former DOS Addict. By Pete Smith, N4ZR. Background. Started in computer logging with C-64 Went to CT with version 6 Went to TR Log 8 years ago (Version 4) First tried N1MM Logger in November 2003 Now entirely committed to using N1MM. Why?.
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Introduction to N1MM Logger Confessions of A Former DOS Addict By Pete Smith, N4ZR
Background • Started in computer logging with C-64 • Went to CT with version 6 • Went to TR Log 8 years ago (Version 4) • First tried N1MM Logger in November 2003 • Now entirely committed to using N1MM
Why? • Advantages of Windows environment for logging programs is too important to ignore • Display flexibility • Smooth multi-tasking • Easy networking (LAN or Internet) • Compatibility with evolving machines and operating systems (e.g., Windows XP)
Display Flexibility Here’s a typical screen from TRLog
What’s Different About N1MM • Run/S&P modes • Enter Sends Messages (ESM) mode • A better bandmap • All contests stored in a common database • Very quick, responsive support • Extreme customization possible • And it’s freeware
A Common Database • All contests are stored in a common Access database. • Switching between contests is almost as simple as just choosing another one from a menu • Records are accessible to any Access tools you have, and may be easily exported to other formats.
Very Quick, Responsive Support • N1MM monitors activity during major contests and users’ testing beforehand • Bug fixes quickly implemented; rarely are other things broken when a bug is fixed • Lots of open discussion about potential enhancements on N1MM mailing list
Extreme Customization Possible • Because all the windows are true Windows, all can be resized and moved around the screen. This gives great flexibility. • Some users even run two monitors and put some windows on one, and others on the other.
What Don’t I Like • Handling of multiplier lists for different contests is awkward; manual customization may be required to avoid problems, particularly where VE mults involved. • Canned CW or voice message lists must be manually stored and recalled for each contest.
Gripes (cont’d.) • SO2R support not quite as good (yet) as TR Log – less automatic • Good CW and SO2R may require an outboard keyer (fortunately “Winkey” is cheap) • No integrated paddle keying – but Winkey does it almost as well as TR Log, including interruption of canned CW messages
Gripes (cont’d.) • Needs more stored CW messages, for fills in contests with complex exchanges. • Some Multi-op features – synchronization across network, for example – less mature than Writelog. • Built-in contest recording not very effective
Computer Requirements • For phone, or if Winkey used, a 266 MHz Pentium with 128 MB of RAM will probably be adequate. • Windows XP may require more RAM • With my 1700+ Athlon and 256 MB, there is no problem running internal CW and SO2R in the most challenging configuration.
Where to Get It • Download (freeware) from http://www.n1mm.com • Info on Winkey from http://www.k1el.com