Started in 1998, this was the first system available for Hams to QSL via computers/ internet located at www.eqsl.cc/qslcard/.There are currently two major systems for performing electronic QSL'ing. The first one is located at eQSL and the second is a new facility at ARRL called the Logbook of the World.
Started in 1998, this was the first system available for Hams to QSL via computers/ internet located at www.eqsl.cc/qslcard/.
This inovative system filled a much needed gap for hams in the internet age. Apparently ignored by the ARRL, they have nontheless been collecting QSL information, improving their systems, and gaining support from many other organizations. Currently they have 30.5 million eQSL entries for 288 countries in their repository. In fairness, their initial user interfaces were not as user friendly as they could have been. But, eQSL is continuing to improve their user interface, so some to those objections may be minimised by now.
At the time I joined, they required that I send them a electronic copy of my Canadian Amateur Licence as part of their verification procedure. Once their verification was complete, I could enter my QSL's via a web browser (like Netscape or Internet Explorer), or I could use most of the current computer logging programs that generate an ADIF file (Amateur Data Interface File) and upload as many contacts as I want. (BTW, ARRL's system also accepts these ADIF files.) Currently, ten of these logging programs also allow Real Time updating of the eQSL system.
The ARRL was insisting on getting QSL cards for their awards. In response, eQSL created a method for printing QSL cards for acknowledged contacts. Each participant selected a QSL card image from supplied samples, or for a slight fee, they could supply their own image to be used. The targetted ham could print them on his/her own printer, or eQSL would print them and mail them. ARRL did accept them with reservations I understand.
eQSL accepts that you are who you say you are by means of a logon using an ID and a password. All the Canadian Banks use the same interface and accept your transactions. ARRL wanted more. In their frustration with the ARRL, eQSL started their own award programs for eDX100, eDX, and eWAS to allow hams electronic methods for collecting wallpaper. But other Ham organizations were not so stringent. Among many others, 10-10 International and QRP ARCI accept eQSL contacts for their awards.
The ARRL released their new "Logbook of the World" system on September 15, 2003. Intended to provide an electronic QSL system for hams they have supported using "paper" till now, ARRL claims this system is secure by using PKI (Public Key Incryption). They are their own key administrators. Their internet site is www.arrl.org/lotw/.
The ARRL supplies its own software for initial interfacing programs for both Windows and Linux. Steve Palm, N9YTY, has ported the software to MacOS X. One program provides for Certificate administration (Public Key). The second program provides for submittion of contact information. Both can be downloaded in "Install" format for Windows or Linux.
At this point, you can ask for additional certificates for old call signs you used to have (with proper time limits set), other current call signs in use for special events, etc, and create submission files containing your documented contacts from specially processed ADIF or Cabrillo files. You can also log on to the LoTW's Users web pages to view your uploaded information and request awards.
When you first start up the submission preparation program, you first need to prepare a "station" or location that is submitted with your files. You may operate from more than one location, so you'll need to prepare multiple "station" entries. Each station needs to have characteristics like call sign, DXCC entity, grid square, ITU zone, CQ zone, IOTA ID supplied if applicable. These characteristics are submitted with your QSL entries to be applied with the contacts towards various awards. A "Wizard" is supplied to step you through this process.
Although the TQSL program contains a facility to create an ADIF file, it is not very convenient for large amounts of data. You would be better off using programs designed for that purpose.
TQSL's main function is to combine the ADIF or Cabrillo file's contents with the "station" information and "sign" the file with your certificate information to create a "TrustedQSL" file. This file can be attached to an e-mail and sent to the ARRL for processing. A "robot" will process the attach files and send a message of confirmation. See the HELP facility of each program for more information.
I've always returned QSL cards for cards that I have received. I was much more active when I first started, and sent out many cards that were not reciprocated. Lately, I have not been a great participant simply because I've not been very active, and I haven't gotten familiar with any computer logging programs. However, I intend to use a logging program to enter my old log book entries and submit them to both eQSL and LoTW. I suspect this may raise my interest in contesting since I can also easily submit those entries too. Although electronic QSL entries are more convenient and cheap, I'll continue my practice of returned QSL cards to those who send one to me.
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