Software Vault: The Gold Collection/Software Vault - The Gold Collection (American Databankers) (1993).ISO/cdr39/sd503.zip/SD-READ.ME

Text File | 1993-05-24 | 48KB | 1,087 lines

        Super-Duper

    The Contest Logging Program by EI5DI.

A comprehensive contest logging program that's really easy to
use, and which caters for the following contests.

    ARRL DX Contest    -   DX Side
    ARRL DX Contest     -   W/VE Side.
    ARRL 10 Metre Contest - including mixed-mode.

    CQ WW Contest.
    CQ WPX Contest.

    IARU HF Championship - including mixed-mode.

    RSGB HF Contests with County Codes - DX Side.
    RSGB HF Contests with County Codes - UK Side.
    RSGB CW Field Day.
    RSGB SSB Field Day.
    RSGB RoPoCo and AFS Contests - (General Purpose option).


Main Features - Version 5.0

    *    Fast, simple logging and editing - in "Expert" and "Novice" modes.

    *    Instant duping, whether 4 or 4000 QSOs logged.

    *    Generates Check Lists, Multiplier Lists and Summary Sheets.

    *    Partial Callsign enquiry by prefix or suffix.

    *    Unique feature - checks complete log for consistency after each
    QSO or Edit.

    *    Permits any combination of on-line or off-line logging.

    *    Built-in memory keyer.

    *    Log is 100% ASCII - edit with any text editor.

    *    Export log to TurboLog - print QSL labels - integrate
    with station log.

    *    Option to split logs by band.

    *    Fail-safe - updates log file after every QSO.

    *    Allows user-defined multipliers


Super-Duper is different!  It's particularly easy to set up and to use -
new users can be contesting and having fun within two minutes of
loading the program.  It's also professional - serious contesters will find
all the main features needed for a winning entry.

I developed Super-Duper originally for the DX side of the ARRL
Contest, because I felt that other logging programs for this contest were
either inadequate or were too complex for newcomers to on-line contest
logging.  Now I've extended it to cover the major international contests
and most RSGB contests, and I hope you'll agree that Super-Duper is
faster and simpler than the others.

It may not have all the bells and whistles you see in some other
programs, and it doesn't offer PacketCluster connection - it's just faster
and simpler at logging and editing, and at helping you take decisions
about your operating strategy.  In the 1990 ARRL DX SSB Contest, the
EI5V multi-op team used it to score almost 2 million points.  In the 1991
ARRL 10 Metre Contest, EI5DI gained first place DX in the mixed mode,
low power (150w) section.

Please read this manual fully before using Super-Duper, as otherwise
you're likely to miss some of the features that make it so quick and
efficient during contests.  Since it's so easy to start using the program,
users sometimes skip the manual and then, months later, realise what
they've missed.  Also, you should read the HISTORY.DOC file to
review recent additions to the program.

If you've already used other contest logging programs, you'll find a few
innovations with Super-Duper.  For example, you always press Enter
when you complete a field.  In many other programs you press Enter
only when you're ready to log the QSO.  In general, Super-Duper knows
when the QSO is complete, and lets you concentrate on keeping the
QSO rate up.  In addition, the commands and procedures are absolutely
consistent across all contest types.  Super-Duper is fast when other
stations are calling you, and it's also efficient, i.e. fast, when you're
hunting them.

I have assumed that you are familiar with MS-DOS concepts and
utilities.  If not, please take some time to get to know them before using
the program.

You should practise with Super-Duper before using it for real.  Why not
experiment with QSOs from a previous contest?  If you're new to contest
logging on computer, you'll soon realise that the computer demands
more attention than your radio, and you'll need both hands free.  In
phone contests this means a boom mic and either VOX or a foot-switch -
anything less will slow you down.  Finally, you should ensure that your
computer and peripherals are "clean" - that is, you can't hear them on
your receiver, and also that they're not affected by RF.

In Version 5 and later, there's provision to vary the RST Sent.   This
means that each QSO record in the log file needs 3 additional characters
which, in turn, means that you will not be able to access contest files
created with earlier versions of Super-Duper.  You should store Version
5 in a new directory on your hard disk, suggest NEWSD, and keep the
old version of the program until you are sure you don't need it any
longer.

Version 5 also introduces significant changes to the program in terms of
supporting additional IARU national society contest types - i.e. those
similar in structure to Type 4 - RSGB contests for DX entrants, and Type
10 RSGB contests where UK entrants work both UK and DX.

Basically, County, Zone and State multiplier IDs are now held in separate
text files corresponding to each contest type.  For example, the UK
county codes and corresponding descriptions are now held in both
SDTYPE4.MLT and SDTYPE10.MLT.

There are two main benefits.  The first is that this information is no
longer hard-coded in the program (with some exceptions for the ARRL
contests).  Therefore, the program is smaller, which permits an additional
200 QSOs to be logged in all contests.  The maximum in the ARRL DX
contest is now approximately 4200.

However, the major benefit is that you can edit the multiplier files, using
a text editor, to reflect any necessary changes in existing contests and,
more significantly, you can set up new files to cater for other contests -
for example, the Helvetia contest which uses 2 letter identifiers for
cantons.  All you have to do is to use the same format as in the existing
MLT files.

This is a 2 or 3 character multiplier identifier (always the same length for
a particular contest), followed by an equals "=" sign.  You have the
option to include a description of the multiplier after the equals sign.
You can have a maximum of 96 multipliers.

When you do start to experiment, make sure you keep a backup copy of
your original MLT files.

NOTE : You are advised not to edit any multiplier files other than
SDTYPE4.MLT and SDTYPE10.MLT.  If you edit the others, the results
may be unpredictable, and I will not be able to offer support.


CAPACITY.

Super-Duper uses conventional memory, the lower 640k.  If you have
extended memory and MS-DOS Version 5, there is typically room for
4200 QSOs in the ARRL DX contest and 3600 QSOs in other contests -
the exact number depends on the parameters in your AUTOEXEC.BAT
and CONFIG.SYS files.  With no extended memory, or with earlier
versions of MS-DOS, typical figures are 3600 and 3000.  With 512k of
memory, you can have 2400 QSOs in the ARRL contest and 1800 in the
others.  The program lets you know when the memory is nearly full, and
you can then start a new contest file to log further QSOs.

The compiler I'm using does not support extended memory.  Therefore, I
plan to use the RAMdrive facility in DOS in a later release to give 10,000
QSOs for each megabyte of extended memory allocated to RAMdrive.

You don't need a hard disk for SD, and can even use a PC with a single
floppy drive, although two are preferable if you have only 360k drives.
Duping is instantaneous, even with 3000 QSOs on an 8088 or 8086
machine running at 4MHz, because that's been a priority in the program
design.  No matter how slow your floppy drives may be, logging will not
be delayed even if you're working them at 300 QSOs per hour.


REGISTRATION.

Super-Duper is not shareware and is not free.  You are entitled to use it
only if you are registered - with the sole exception of evaluation copies
licensed to "DEMO" that have full facilities in the ARRL DX contest,
and also RSGB contests, for DX entrants, but are limited to 30 QSOs in
other contests.  EI5DI retains the copyright and reserves all rights.  A
group or club registration, whether complimentary or otherwise, does
not entitle individuals in the group to use the program under their own
callsign.

You are registered only if your callsign is shown on the opening screen
following the words "Licensed to".  When you register you will receive
a copy of the latest version of the program identified with your callsign,
together with a printed manual, and you'll be entitled to telephone
support for 12 months.  During this time you can have updates on
request (on receipt of a blank formatted 3.5" disk together with 2 IRCs
for return postage).  Please note that 5.25" disks are not supported.

At present, there is no copy protection on the program and registered
users may make copies for backup purposes only.  I know and you know
that I'm taking a risk by releasing Super-Duper without copy protection.
I've spent hundreds of hours developing and testing this program and I
don't like being ripped off.

So, if someone asks you for a copy of the program, other than one
licensed to "DEMO", please realise that he or she is asking you to steal.

Give them my name and address so that they can order a copy for
themselves. Super-Duper is a bargain at the price!


A separate VHF version is available that uses locators for radial ring and
distance scoring, and also allows you to vary the RST Sent.

Please send your registration fee or enquiries to

Paul O'Kane  EI5DI
36 Coolkill
Sandyford
Dublin 18
Ireland

Telephone:       [phone]
From UK.    010 353 1 295 3668
Elsewhere      [phone]

You can use the form included in the file REGISTER.DOC.  The program
is supplied only on 3.5" diskettes.  The registration fee, until 31st
December 1993, is £20.00 or $35.00.


STARTING SUPER-DUPER.

If your computer has a hard disk, you should create a new directory
(suggest SD) and copy all the files to that directory from the disk
supplied.  You will find the relevant instructions in your MS-DOS
manual.

You start the program by typing SD, then press Enter.  If you follow this
command with the name of a specific file, it will open the file if it exists,
and will create it otherwise.  The characters used in the name may be any
combination of alphabetic or numeric, up to a total of eight.  Other
characters will be ignored.

For example:  SD ARRLCW92 will open, or will create, a contest file
called ARRLCW92, which will have an extension .ALL.  If you're using a
B/W monitor or a portable computer, the display may be more legible if
you type SD - (that's SD followed by space followed by minus).  You
may include the contest file name immediately after the minus sign.

SD -ARRLCW92 opens contest file ARRLCW92 for a black and white
monitor.  The first screen records cover sheet information such as
Callsign, Name and Address.  You may omit many of these fields, but the
program will insist on getting the mode, SSB or CW, and other
information as appropriate for that contest.  If you record your name and
address, it will be shown in the Summary Sheet.

For RSGB contests you give the points per QSO and the Bonus Points
per new County.  If the contest scores Counties as multipliers, then all
you do is set the Bonus Points to zero.  You also indicate whether you're
single or multi-op.  To exit from this screen, press the TAB key rather
than the Enter key when you have finished editing.  UK entrants should
complete the County Code field so that it will be picked up by the
memory keyer in CW contests.


EXPERT and NOVICE MODES.

In the second screen you enter the Band, in metres, and the program
loads any previous QSOs for this contest and then requests the
Operator callsign if you have selected multi-op earlier.

The next choice you make is to the question "RST always 599", and
which defaults to Y if you press Enter.  This determines whether you will
be logging and editing in "expert" mode or in "novice" mode.

These descriptions are really misnomers, and a better choice would be
"urgent" and "casual", since they are intended to reflect the type of
contest and your approach to it, rather than your contesting experience.

The main difference between them lies in whether or not you are happy
to always send 59(9).  In some contests, and for casual or QRP contest
operation, you will probably prefer to vary your reports, and you can do
so by answering N to this question.  Should you change your mind, or
suddenly find yourself  at the sharp end of a pileup, you can change
modes instantly from the callsign field while logging.

In urgent mode, once you have entered the callsign you are taken
directly to the Serial or State/Zone/County field.  In this case you don't
have to think about the RST received unless it's anything other than
59(9).

In casual mode you are taken in sequence between Callsign, RST sent,
RST received, Serial and State/Zone/County.  The RSTs are preset at
59(9) and the cursor is positioned on the second digit ready to amend
the signal strength if needed.  If no change is required, then press Enter
to access the next field in the QSO.

The last question on this screen refers to on-line logging.  You answer Y
to take the QSO times from the computer clock - don't forget to set the
time to GMT, and the date to correspond.  If you answer N to this
question, it is assumed you will be entering QSOs off-line that were
worked earlier.


LOGGING QSOs.

The main thing I've tried to do with Super-Duper is to make logging as
simple and fast as possible, but without taking any shortcuts that might
be questionable.

The urgent and casual modes provide separate no-compromise
approaches to each operating style.  Whichever mode you're using, you
press Enter (also known as Return or CR) after every field unless you
need to delay logging the QSO for some reason.  This feature alone
makes Super-Duper faster and easier to use than many other contest
logging programs.  You just keep using Enter unless there's some reason
not to.

In most cases, particularly in urgent mode, you need to record only the
Callsign and State/Zone/County or Serial received.  When logging or
editing a serial, there's no need to enter leading zeros - the program will
take care of them for you.  A received report of 59(9) is assumed, but can
be easily changed if necessary.  You move from one field to the next by
pressing Enter (or TAB).  Normally you press Enter.  The QSO will not
be logged until sufficient information has been recorded.  By pressing
TAB you can move between fields without logging the QSO.  However,
you need to press TAB only when another field must be amended or
completed before logging.  For example, you might need to complete a
Callsign or modify the RST received.

Whether or not you use TAB to move between fields, the QSO will be
logged only after an Enter, and only if all fields are valid (and non-
blank).  In contests with serial numbers, it may happen that the other
station does not give a serial.  In this case, you enter 0 (zero) and this
will appear as blank, or spaces, in the final log.

To summarise, keep pressing Enter after each field, or else use TAB to
amend or complete an earlier field.  The QSO will be logged only
following an Enter.


HELP.

You'll get a summary of most commands or edit functions by typing
HELP, followed by Enter, in the Callsign field.

You should refer to the command summary at.the end of this document,
and please experiment with them all.

Some displays relate to specific contests and not to others.  For example,
F4 F5 and F6 have no relevance in the ARRL DX Contest.


EDITING FIELDS - Call,  RST  ,Serial.

I've provided versatile editing functions for data entry as summarised
below - you should take time to get used to them before the contest, so
that you'll know, without having to stop and think, the appropriate
commands or keystrokes when it matters.  I've tried to keep things simple
by eliminating the need for multiple keystrokes that are all very well for
computer enthusiasts but are not so convenient when you're new to
keyboards.

Esc    Deletes or clears a field - a second Esc will restore it.

Minus -    Abandons QSO Entry or Edit - returns to QSO Entry mode.
(This is useful if you get into trouble during an edit or if making
corrections to a new QSO would take too long - it lets you start again
from the beginning.)
Remember:  Esc and Minus update the Quick Memo Table.

Home or [    Moves to the start of a field.
End  or ]    Moves to the end of a field.
Delete        Deletes the character under the cursor.
Backspace    Deletes the character to the left of the cursor.

Use the arrow keys to move right and left.


CALLSIGN ENTRY MODES.

There are two modes of entry for Callsign fields - Overwrite and Insert.
The default is Overwrite, as shown by OVR under the Callsign field.
You can switch to Insert mode, shown as INS, by pressing the Insert key.

In Overwrite mode, anything you type replaces what's under the cursor.
In Insert mode, whatever you type is inserted (added) before existing
characters, if any, in the callsign.

Insert mode is useful when you have missed the prefix in a callsign and
need to complete it after recording the remaining QSO information.  In
this mode, when you return to the Callsign field, the cursor will be
positioned at the first character, ready for the prefix.

In Overwrite mode, the cursor is placed to the right of any existing
callsign.  When you check for Partial Calls by prefix, the Callsign entry
mode is automatically switched to OVR.  A check by suffix switches the
mode to INS.

However, you can stay in Overwrite mode at all times (Note: this is the
only mode for fields other than Callsign).  In Overwrite mode, you press
the space bar to create spaces which you then replace with the missing
letters of the callsign.  Please experiment so that it will be automatic
when you need it.


DEALING WITH DUPES.

If you don't have a computer, dupes will be a nuisance because you'll
have to update a manual check list after each QSO.  In the later stages of
some 48 hour contests, dupe rates of 10% or more are common, but with
Super-Duper they're no longer a problem.

When you type a callsign, followed by Enter, you'll hear a warning beep -
"II" in Morse - if it's a potential dupe.  If it's not a dupe, you'll hear "R".
In this way you'll know whether you can go ahead without having to
look at the screen.

If you don't want to log a dupe, press Enter once again and the QSO
logging line will be cleared, ready for the next callsign.

To log the QSO as a dupe, enter State/Zone/County or serial and press
Enter.  The summary score will be updated accordingly.  Since this is a
dupe, it wouldn't make sense to record a State/Zone or County other
than the one logged in the original QSO, and the program will check this.

If you've worked the station already, but on another band, you'll hear
"V", and you'll see the earlier QSOs replacing the multiplier window.
There's no particular logic in the choice of this letter other than it has a
distinctive sound.  It indicates that the same State/Zone/County, as
already logged, will be entered and you just press Enter to log the QSO.

You can suppress all sounds, apart from dupe warnings, by typing
NOSOUND in the Callsign field, and SOUND to restore them.

If other stations are calling you, and one turns out to be a dupe, it's
often quicker to work him and log the contact rather than tell him he's a
dupe.  There's no point in getting annoyed with stations who are dupes -
after all, not everyone has the luxury of a computer for logging.  All
dupes will be flagged in the log and none will score.

For duping purposes, Super-Duper ignores

/P     /M     /A     /MM    /AM    /QRP

For example, if GI3OTV has already been logged, GI3OTV/P will be
flagged as a dupe on the same band.  This feature applies both to new
QSOs and to edits of earlier QSOs, and has proved invaluable in
eliminating unmarked dupes which other contest logging programs often
miss.


HUNTING AND POUNCING.

Unless you're very lucky, you'll spend a large proportion of each contest
searching for stations needed on the current band.  Super-Duper
provides options to make this as easy and as quick as possible.

When hunting other stations, type the callsign and press Enter.  You'll
hear "R" if it's OK to call, otherwise you hear "II" and a potential dupe is
reported.  If the latter, just press Enter and the logging line will clear,
ready for the next callsign.

If it takes too long to type the full callsign, just type the first 2 or 3
characters followed by comma to get a list, in alphabetic sequence, of all
stations already worked with that prefix on any band.  Callsigns shown
in bold, and in upper-case, are needed on this band.  If the station you're
interested in has already been worked, type Esc to clear the Callsign field
ready for the next callsign or prefix.  If the callsign isn't shown, then it
hasn't been logged on any band and you can go ahead and call.

In the same way, full-stop (period) lists all stations worked with any
given suffix.  As noted above, the callsign entry mode will be OVR after
a prefix check, and INS after a suffix check.


MEMO.

If anything unusual happens and you need to keep a record of it, type M
or MEMO, followed by Enter, in the callsign field.  This will write a
memo, with the current time recorded, to a disk file called NAME.MMO,
where NAME is the name of your contest file.  You might also use this
to log QSOs with stations that don't qualify for points in the contest
concerned, and which would otherwise be scored.

In the IARU HF Championship, you identify IARU National Society HQ
stations by giving them a Zone of 99 to flag them as multipliers.  You
then use MEMO to record the actual society initials, for inclusion in
your entry file using an external text editor or word processor.


QUICK MEMO.

Whenever you use Esc to delete a callsign, or Minus to delete data on
the logging line, whatever was in the Callsign field is recorded in a table
in memory.

The eight most recent entries are held, and can be recalled by F10 that
displays them in a new window.  You might use this as a reminder for
callsigns or frequencies, while you work other stations in the meantime.
It's worth trying it out for yourself - you probably won't realise how
useful it is just by reading about it.

Any of the entries can be retrieved and placed in the Callsign field by
using the Up or Down Arrow keys followed by Enter.  Any other key will
return to normal logging.


MULTIPLIERS  -  STATES, PREFIXES.

As QSOs are logged, the multiplier window shows
States/Zones/Counties worked and needed on the current band.  Those
needed remain in bold type, whereas those worked are dimmed and
appear in lower-case.  In the ARRL DX contest, the 49 American
multipliers are separated from the 13 Canadian multipliers.  This makes it
easier to see when you're close to "Worked all States" on a particular
band.

You can quickly check multipliers for other bands by using F1
and F2 to go up and down the bands.  In this contest, Alaska and
Hawaii do not qualify as multipliers, and the extra (49th) multiplier is DC -
District of Columbia.  In the ARRL 10 Meter Contest, all 50 States +
DC, the 13 Canadian provinces, and all other DXCC countries, in each
mode, count as multipliers.

The State field will accept from 1 to 4 characters.  Almost any sensible
abbreviation will work.  In most cases two characters are necessary - you
might use the  standard abbreviations shown in the multiplier window.
In some cases, such as Florida and British Columbia, the first character is
sufficient to uniquely indicate the State.

Beginners often need help with the standard state abbreviations.  To get
help type the first character only, press Enter, and the corresponding
States will be shown alongside.  Note that QSOs with Quebec will be
logged as PQ - even if you enter QUE.

In the RSGB CW Field Day contest, multipliers have no relevance in
terms of the score.  However, I've marked new countries on each band
since they may be of interest to operators and visitors.  In addition,
QSOs on 10 and 160m score double points but are logged with the
normal points as required by the rules.  Further, edits which change the
band logged - using F1 or F2 - adjust the score as necessary.


NAVIGATE THE LOG.

To see earlier log entries, use the following keys in the Callsign field
(which should be empty).

Page Up        Back 6 QSOs.
Page Down    Forward 6 QSOs.
Home        Back 50 QSOs.
End        Forward 50 QSOs.

To see all QSOs for a particular callsign - enter the callsign and press F9.
Use this to find the QSO number or the serial corresponding to a specific
QSO, in the event that you want to edit the log entry.    If you press F9
when the Callsign field is empty, you'll get the information for the most
recent QSO (or Edit).


EDITING LOGGED QSOs.

This could hardly be easier, and I've provided two simple methods for
getting to the QSO you want to edit.  The first is to use the Up Arrow or
Down Arrow keys until you reach the QSO you want.  You'll find that
these keys work so long as you don't change any field in a QSO.  Once
you do, you must log the edited QSO (with Enter), or abandon the edit
(with minus) before editing another QSO.

As an alternative, you can go directly to any QSO by typing the QSO
number in the Callsign field followed by Enter.  To find QSO numbers for
any callsign, type the callsign followed by F9.  Use Esc to clear the
callsign.  If you enter a number in the Callsign field and then press TAB,
Super-Duper assumes you've entered a partial callsign, and will take you
to the next field.

When editing, TAB from one field to another to make changes.  Press
Enter to log the changes, if any, and you'll be returned to the entry line
for logging new QSOs.  If you get into trouble during an edit and need to
abandon it, whether or not you've made any changes, then Minus is the
way to do so.  Edits take effect only when you finish with Enter.

After any change in callsign, the program examines all QSOs logged for
dupes to be marked or unset, and updates the log and the score as
necessary.  In addition, Super-Duper ensures that the
State/Zone/County on the edited QSO will be reflected in all other QSOs
with the callsign concerned.  For example, if you have already logged
W3LP as being in Delaware (DE) and you edit the Callsign to W3LPL,
you should be aware that all W3LPL QSOs will have the State changed
to DE.

You probably know that W3LPL is usually in Maryland (MD).  However,
Super-Duper is designed to ensure consistency, since that's the only
way your dupes, multipliers and points can be accurate, and therefore
edits take priority over previous log entries.  This works to your
advantage, in that you can change the State/Zone/County for all QSOs
with a particular station merely by editing any one such QSO.  Basically,
the program won't allow you to do anything inconsistent, but remember
that it may not stop you from doing something wrong!

You can edit any combination of fields and everything will be kept
consistent, with the dupes, multipliers, and points correctly recorded.
Needless to say, the report received can be edited - either alone or in
combination with the Callsign and State/Zone/County.  In urgent mode
it's assumed you always give a report of 59 or 599.   You can toggle
between urgent and casual mode simply by typing RST in the Callsign
field followed by Enter.   In Field Day contests, portable and mobile
stations qualify for extra points.  Edits which add or remove /P or /M will
adjust the score.

It may happen that you change band on-air but forget to do so on the
computer.  You correct any QSO concerned by moving to it, as for an
Edit, and then using F1 or F2 to go up and down the bands as required.
This takes effect only if you have not already changed any field in the
QSO.  As before, Super-Duper checks the complete log for consistency
and displays the correct multipliers and score, on both the old band and
the new band.  For example, in the WPX Contest, QSOs on 40, 80 and
160m score double points, so band edits from 20m to 40m and from 160m
to 10m (and vice versa), will cause the score to be adjusted.

I've gone to a lot of trouble in my efforts to handle all edits correctly.  If
you find a combination that doesn't work, please let me know.  If you do
spot an error, you can correct the relevant NAME.ALL file with a text
editor or word processor - then the correct score will be shown when
you reload your contest file (see the warning later about using external
editors on the log).



CHANGING BANDS OR OPERATOR OR GOING OFF-LINE.

To change bands, or to go from on-line to off-line logging and vice-
versa, simply type B or BAND in the Callsign field and hit Enter.  You'll
be returned to the second screen.  Enter the new band, or the same one if
it's unchanged, and answer Y or N to "On-Line Logging ?" as
appropriate.

In the IARU HF Championship, mixed mode entries are
permitted, and here you will be asked for the current mode.  In multi-op
contests, you'll be asked for the op's callsign.  Finally, this screen gives
you the opportunity to change logging mode (urgent or casual).

Here's a quicker way to change bands from the Callsign field in the
logging line. Just type B20, followed by Enter, to go to 20 metres
without changing mode, B80 for 80 metres, etc.  The scores for the
current band will be highlighted in the Summary Score window.  You can
also go off-line or on-line by typing OFF or ON in the Callsign field
followed by Enter.  To change operator from the Callsign field, type OPR
followed immediately (no space) by the new callsign.

To switch between urgent and casual modes from the Callsign field, type
RST followed by Enter.


QSO RATES.

The table on the lower RHS of the screen gives the QSO rate per hour
for your last 10 QSOs, last 100 QSOs, and overall rate - since the start
of the contest.  The values are updated every 10 seconds, so you can't
relax for long without seeing your rates going down.  If you haven't
logged 10 or 100 QSOs, then the figures relate to the actual number of
QSOs completed.  With the exception of the overall rate, these figures
will be accurate only when on-line logging is selected for all QSOs, and
they are for guidance during the contest.  They have no significance
after the contest.

There are two other items shown on the bottom RHS of the screen.  The
number represents the approximate number of QSOs remaining (within
memory), together with the name of your contest file.


MEMORY KEYER.

A simple circuit will interface your computer with your keyer or radio
(positive keyed only).  The program assumes you'll be using COM1, the
standard serial o/p port on your computer.  You'll need a general
purpose small signal NPN transistor, such as a BC182A or BC317, and a
1k resistor that will both fit inside the cover of your DB9 or DB25
connector to the computer.  If you have a DB25 connector, then pin 20 is
DTR (Data Terminal Ready) and pin 7 is signal ground.  For a DB9
connector, pin 4 is DTR and pin 5 is signal ground.  As you might
expect, signal ground connects to the ground on the transmitter key
input.  The 1k resistor goes between the base of the transistor and DTR.
The emitter goes to signal ground, and the collector goes to the positive
line of the transmitter key input.

You should connect the TX end of this lead in parallel with the output of
your present key(er) rather than connecting it to any of your keyer
inputs.  If you boot your computer with the cable connected, DTR may
be set to ON which will key your rig.  Once you use the keyer from
within the program, DTR will be set to OFF.

You toggle between keyboard mode and logging mode with backslash
"\", or single apostrophe "'" or hash "#".  The initial speed is 28 words
per minute, and you can adjust it up or down between 60 wpm and 12
wpm (all indicated speeds are approximate) with Up-Arrow or Down-
Arrow.  If you're not happy with the weight, you increase it with Right-
Arrow,  reduce it with Left-Arrow, and restore it to 50% with the Home
key.  I've included this mainly because there are slight timing differences
with different computers, but you might want to experiment anyway.
You must be in keyboard mode to change speed or weight.

When you're in keyboard mode the function keys have no effect.  When
you're not in keyboard mode, i.e. when in logging mode, you can use
Super-Duper's standard messages as follows.  (Note: these were formerly
Alt-F1 to Alt-F10)

Ctrl-Z    TEST Call  Call TEST   (Where Call is from the opening screen)
Ctrl-X    His call
Ctrl-C    Exchange:  RST + info (if a serial, it's the current value)
Ctrl-A    Exchange:  RST + info (if a serial, it's the previous value)
Ctrl-S    TU
Ctrl-D    Call
Ctrl-Q    QRL?
Ctrl-W    ?
Ctrl-E    Current serial
Ctrl-R    Previous serial

If you're used to other contest logging programs that use individual
Function keys for the memory keyer, your first impression will be that
this implementation is less convenient.  In practice it's easier and quicker
because you don't have to move your hands to the Function key row
after entering the callsign.

When other stations are calling you, type the callsign (don't press Enter
at this stage) followed by Ctrl-XC which sends their callsign and the
complete exchange (you press Enter at any time while the exchange is
being sent).  When you receive your exchange, type Ctrl-SD to send TU
followed by your callsign (then press Enter to log the QSO).  If you're
working them continuously, you can take a shortcut here by typing only
Ctrl-S or Ctrl-D to send TU only or your callsign only.

When calling other stations, Ctrl-D sends your callsign.  Then, after
receiving the exchange, type Ctrl-SC to send TU followed by the
exchange, or just Ctrl-C if you're in a hurry.

Even if you're not a touch typist, you'll soon find yourself using the
keyer without looking at the keyboard - this is unlikely to happen when
you have to find the Function keys.

If you use the keyer, make sure that you do not have the command
BREAK=ON in your CONFIG.SYS file, as otherwise there will be a
conflict with Ctrl-C that may stop the program.

The following keyer options work only while you are in keyboard mode,
and not logging mode.  DEMO versions of the program are fixed at 12
wpm.  (You're in keyboard mode only when the keying speed is
displayed on the bottom line.)


Down-Arrow    Decrease speed by 2 wpm - minimum 12 wpm
Up-Arrow    Increase speed by 2 wpm    - maximum 60 wpm.
Left-Arrow    Reduce weight.
Right-Arrow    Increase weight.
Home        Restore 50% weight.

To change the messages F1 or F5-F8 - which are now Ctrl-A and Ctrl-
SDQW, you do so with Shift F1 etc., which will display the current
message and invite you to enter a new one.  If you don't enter anything,
the original message will be unchanged.

If you get into trouble, either in keyboard mode or when sending a
preset message, Esc will stop the message and empty the keyboard
buffer.

When you use this keyer, make sure it's connected in parallel with
whatever alternative keying  method you use.  If you make a mistake in
entering a callsign, it's often quicker to send it on your normal key and
then correct the computer entry later.


LEAVING THE PROGRAM.

To leave the program, type END or QUIT in the Callsign field.  If you're
using Super-Duper off-line, END and QUIT can be entered in the Time
field.

What happens if the power to the computer fails?  Super-Duper is fail-
safe, and updates the log file on disk after every QSO or edit.  So, when
power is restored, simply type SD followed by your contest file name, go
to the QSO entry screen and you will see the last QSO logged
immediately above the data entry line.  Note that if you use your
computer for Windows 3.1, Smartdrive may cache disk writes which
could delay updating your disk file.  The following line in your
AUTOEXEC.BAT file will inhibit caching on disk writes (for drive C).

C:\WINDOWS\SMARTDRV.EXE  C


A COPY OF YOUR LOG.

To take a copy of the current contest file, without leaving Super-Duper,
type DUMP or DUMPFILE, followed by Enter, in the Callsign field.  This
writes your file, with an extension .DMP, to a write-enabled diskette in
Drive A.  This way, you'll have a backup copy of the log to be printed or
analysed on any other computer.  You should be aware that, depending
on the number of QSOs logged and the speed of your drive, DUMP may
take a significant time during which you cannot log further QSOs.

Super-Duper does not support printers directly, because printers can be
temperamental and you probably wouldn't want logging to be
interrupted due to a minor printer problem.


SENDING IN YOUR ENTRY.

Finally, you'll probably want to send in your contest entry.  There's
usually no need to send a printout, as most contest organisers accept
entries on diskette.  Simply type WRITELOG, followed by Enter, in the
Callsign field and your log will be written in the recommended format to
a file called NAME.LOG, where NAME is the callsign you entered in the
opening screen.

You should not send printed logs to ARRL or RSGB - it's simply a waste
of time to do so.  Send a copy of the .LOG file on a diskette together with
a printed Summary Sheet.   Do not edit the .LOG file in any way, for
example to include headings or to split it by band.  The .LOG file
generated by Super-Duper is formatted to the specific and precise
recommendations of both ARRL and RSGB.  You are not required to
present separate logs by band when submitting an entry on diskette.

To get a separate log for each band, in the same format that WRITE
gives, type SPLIT or SPLITLOG in the Callsign field.  This uses
NAME.LOG and gives 6 files named NAME.10, NAME.15 etc.

If you need a printout for your own log, enter PRINT in the Callsign
field.  This creates a disk file named NAME.PRT.  To print it, use the
DOS COPY or PRINT commands.  This facility is not intended to be a
substitute for your entry on disk, since its format may not correspond to
requirements.  Since it is intended for your own use, rather than for the
contest organisers, it is not split by band.

A separate program SDCHECK is supplied which generates Check Lists
and Multiplier Lists for each band, together with a Summary Sheet for
the contest.  These are the files CHECK.LST and SUMMARY.DOC, and
they can be printed with MS-DOS commands.  Note that they are
formatted at 66 lines per page which is the norm for continuous
stationery.  You may have to edit the spacing if you use a laser printer.

The Check List is a sorted list of callsigns together with the time of the
QSO.  Dupes are indicated by an asterisk before the callsign.  Note that,
in RSGB Field Day contests, a separate Cover Sheet is required for each
band.

If you use a general purpose logging progam you will be able to import
contest logs from Super-Duper.   TurboLog, the station management and
logging program from Canberra Communications in the UK, supports
Super-Duper logs, and will generate QSL labels.  Contact John Linford
G3WGV at [phone].

The DXCC.CTY and RSGB.CTY files are your references for prefix and
country multipliers.  You are free to edit them with  a text editor or word
processor.  Please let me know of any errors or omissions so that I can
update my copy.  A word of warning - do not place a comma anywhere in
the files or Super-Duper will come to a sudden stop.


EDITING THE .ALL FILE.

Super-Duper creates two files.  The first is NAME.ALL where NAME is
whatever name you gave the contest when you started the program.
This holds all the internal reference information for keeping multipliers
and points consistent, especially during and after edits done from within
SD.  When the contest is finished, you use the WRITELOG command to
create CALLSIGN.LOG, where CALLSIGN is your callsign.  The contents
of the .LOG file are essentially a reformatted version of the .ALL file, but
without the internal reference information.

1.  Take a copy of your contest file.  For example
COPY  CQWW92.ALL   TEST.ALL, and then work on TEST.ALL

2.  Use a text editor such as EDIT which is distributed with Version 5 of
DOS (I use Brief, now supplied by Borland).  Don't use a word
processor.  Where I've used the words "edit" or "editing" from here on,
I'm referring to the use of the EDIT program (or any other text editor you
use).

3.  Remember that you must not change the length, in characters, of any
line in the .ALL file.  Spaces count as characters.

4.  Do not edit the .ALL file until after the contest.  If you edit it during
the contest, and then go back to logging, the results will be
unpredictable.

5.  If you get into trouble during or after an edit, go back to Step 1.


QUESTIONS and ANSWERS.

Q.  I've got some QSOs in the .ALL file that I want to delete.  What do I
do?.

A.  Go ahead and delete each record.  Make sure you delete the record,
the whole record, and nothing but the record.  That's why you're
working on the copy file, aren't you?

You cannot delete a QSO from within SD.  When you log a station that
doesn't count - don't worry about it, and edit it out of the .ALL file after
the contest.

Q.  Some QSOs are multipliers, and the program hasn't picked them up.
How can I correct my score?

A.  Mark them with M in the appropriate position - you'll see the M
corresponding to other multiplier QSOs.  When you reload the .ALL file
(SDI TEST), the points, multipliers and summary will be correct.
Similarly, you can edit the points for any QSO by changing the last 2
characters in the QSO record.

Q.  Is there any snag about making a QSO a multiplier with EDIT?

A.  Yes, but only a little one.  The multiplier list generated by SDICHECK
will probably show one multiplier twice, and not show the new multiplier
at all.  You can edit CHECK.LST to correct this.

You can also edit the Operator files for multi-operator contests.  They
have an OPR extension, with each record holding the Callsign (6
characters) followed by the starting QSO number for that operator.


THIS IS THE SMALL PRINT.

Information in this document is subject to change without notice and
does not represent a commitment on the part of EI5DI.   EI5DI reserves
all rights, but does not warrant that the program will work as described
on your computer.  Please refer to the latest READ.ME file for
information on known bugs.  You should take a copy of your contest file
with DUMPLOG or with the MS-DOS COPY command before using any
external editor or word processor.  Super-Duper is an MS-DOS program.
It will not run in a DOS window under Windows 3.1.


Known Bugs - Version 5.0

You should not modify the country files, DXCC.CTY or RSGB.CTY,
between the time you start the contest and the time you complete your
entry including the generation of county multiplier lists with SDCHECK.
If you do, the country multipliers listed may not correspond to the ones
you actually logged.  Zone, state or county multipliers will not be
affected.

In CQWW and SSB Field Day contests, callsign edits which change the
continent of the station worked may not have the correct points
allocated.

In CQWW and IARU contests, no Zone checking is done following
callsign edits.  When you edit the callsign it's your responsibility to also
edit the Zone.

In the ARRL 10 Meter Contest (Type 5), do not edit W/VE callsigns to
DX callsigns and vice versa after the QSO has been logged.  If you do,
the points and multipliers may not be consistent.

In RSGB contests (Type 10) where UK entrants work both UK and DX,
do not edit UK callsigns to DX callsigns and vice versa after the QSO
has been logged.  If you do, the points and multipliers may not be
consistent.

In the RSGB 7 MHz contest for UK. entrants, callsign edits which
change the continent may not adjust the QSO points correctly.

In the RSGB RoPoCo contest, no consistency tests are performed apart
from dupe checking.  Use this contest type as a general purpose contest
logger.

Super-Duper scores /AM and /MM callsigns according to the home
callsign.  This is correct for some RSGB contests, but may not be
appropriate in others.















Super-Duper       Copyright 1990-93  Paul O'Kane EI5DI
All Rights Reserve


        SUPER-DUPER COMMAND
SUMMARY  - V5.02



SD NAME    -    Colour display
SD -NAME    -    B/W display.

    LOGGING
Enter     Accept a completed field.
TAB    Accept a partial or completed field
    - delays logging.
Esc    Delete or clear a field.
    - a second Esc will restore it.
Minus    Abandon QSO entry.
Esc or Minus update the Quick Memo.

Home or [    Move to the start of a field.
End    or ]    Move to the end of a field.
Delete    Delete character.
Backspace    Delete character to the left.
Arrow keys     Move left and right..
Page Up    Back 6 QSOs.
Page Down    Forward 6 QSOs.
Home    Back 50 QSOs.
End    Forward 50 QSOs.

   When warned of a Dupe -
To work it    Enter Zone/State/Serial.
     else    Press Enter.

   Contests with Serials.
No serial given  -  Enter 0 (zero).

Commands valid in Callsign Field.
END        QUIT
BAND        BXX - Change to band XX
HELP        MEMO
ONLINE    OFFLINE
SOUND    NOSOUND
WRITE    WRITELOG
SPLIT        SPLITLOG
DUMP    PRINT
RST        OPR+Callsign

MULTIPLIER ENQUIRIES.
F1    Multipliers next band HF.
F2    Multipliers next band LF.
F3    Zone/State/County Summary - all bands.
F4    Countries by Continent.
F5     Countries worked by band.
F6    Single country status by band.


HUNTING & POUNCING
Comma    Partial call search by prefix.
Full stop    Partial call search by suffix.
F9    List QSOs by callsign.

    EDITING.
Use Up/Down keys or enter QSO number.
Callsign + F9 gives QSO numbers.

Use TAB between fields. Enter when complete.

F1 - Edit Band HF.  F2 - Edit Band LF.
Minus       Abandon Edit

    KEYER.
#'\&<    Toggle keyboard/logging mode.
Alt-K    As above
Down-Arrow    Decrease speed by 2 wpm.
Up-Arrow    Increase speed by 2 wpm.
Left-Arrow    Reduce weight.
Right-Arrow    Increase weight.
Home    Restore 50% weight.

Ctrl-Z    TEST Call  Call TEST
Ctrl-X    His callsign.
Ctrl-C    Exchange:  RST + info (if a serial, it's the current
value)
Ctrl-A      Exchange:  RST + info (if a serial, it's the previous
value)
Ctrl-S    TU
Ctrl-D    Call
Ctrl-Q    QRL?
Ctrl-W    ?
Ctrl-E    Current serial
Ctrl-R    Previous serial

Shift-F1 to Shift-F10    Redefine above.


    QUICK MEMO
F10    Recall table.
Enter    Retrieve data.
Any other key    Return to logging.


    CALLSIGN ENTRY MODE
Insert        Toggle INS/OVR.
1

2