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QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
QQSL(tm)
Quick QSL labels, Version 5.4
February 25, 1993
************************************************
* Copyright (C) 1989-93 by Bill Mullin, AA4M/6 *
* All Rights Reserved *
************************************************
AUTHOR
======
QQSL was designed, programmed, and distributed by:
Bill Mullin - AA4M/6
3042 Larkin Place
San Diego, CA 92123-3026
U.S.A.
QUICK START
===========
For those of you who would rather jump right into the program
rather than wading through the manual, the following will get you
up and running quickly:
1. Copy QQSL.EXE and SORTF.COM into the same directory or
onto the same floppy. NOTE: If you are using floppy diskette,
high density is required.
2. Run QQSL, immediately selecting the Configuration menu
command. If you have any questions about what you see, drop down
to the "Configure QQSL" section in this document and read it.
Check the index at the end of this document for the page number
that the Configure QQSL section begins. Save the new configura-
tion permanently [F6].
3. Select the Modify lines 4/5 menu command. If you have
any questions about what you see, drop down to the "Modify lines
--------------------
QQSL is a trademark of Bill Mullin - AA4M.
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 1
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
4/5" section in this document and read it. Check the index at
the end of this document for the page number that the Modify
lines 4/5 section begins. Save the line 4 and 5 changes perma-
nently [F6]. Note: Only licensed users may change line 5.
If you decide to run QQSL according to the brief instructions in
the "Quick Start" section, I still HIGHLY recommended that you
later read this manual cover-to-cover at least once. It's been
my experience that just about every question I've ever gotten
relating to QQSL had already been answered here!
ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT
===================
This document has been formatted for printing on either a dot
matrix or a laser printer. Top margins, bottom margins, headers,
and footers with page numbers have all been built into the file.
From the DOS prompt, simply enter:
TYPE QQSL.DOC > PRN
NOTE: If you're printing this document on a laser printer, the
assumption is that the printer is set to the factory default of
60 lines/page, 10 characters/inch. If you intend to print to a
laser printer with settings other than these, you're on your own
<HI!>.
If you prefer to view the document online (which is the way I
like to read documentation), I recommend Vernon D. Buerg's (N6MG)
LIST utility program, which should be available on any general-
purpose BBS, or anywhere you find public domain and/or Shareware
programs. Or, you can simply view the document with your word
processing software.
The HISTORY.DOC file was written only to inform current QQSL
users of changes/enhancements to the program, and is set up for
online viewing rather than printing. If you wish a printed copy
of this file, it should only require minimal reformatting with
your favorite word processor before printing.
I've been writing technical documents for more than twenty-five
years now and found that the best way to write a user document
directed to an unknown audience is to write to the level of the
least knowledgeable user. Therefore, I've written QQSL.DOC with
the newer PC user foremost in my mind. Additionally, I've been
very "wordy", rather than brief and cryptic as is much of the
documentation that's on the market! For those of you who are
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 2
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
familiar with the PC and with "computerese", you may find that
you'll only need to scan this document, and then later use it for
reference.
INTRODUCTION
============
You're probably saying to yourself, "So this is a program that
prints labels - big deal!". Although it's true that QQSL is a
label program, it should also be considered a MAJOR application
program, as no other program in existence does the job as well,
does it as fast, does as nice a job, looks as good, and has all
the "bells and whistles" that any good program should! Another
way of putting all this is that most programs produce QSL labels
as an "afterthought". With QQSL, QSL labels are the ONLY
thought! And since labels are the only thought, I've devoted
100% of my energies to making QQSL the most comprehensive QSL
label program ever written!
QQSL will produce QSL labels for all ham bands from 1.8 MHz to 48
GHz, and for six amateur modes: AMTOR, CW, FM, Packet, RTTY, or
SSB, and QQSL won't let you enter an invalid band, mode, RS(T),
date, or time! Additionally, QQSL provides you the capability to
customize your labels with personal comments, rig information,
etc. There's also the capability to quickly produce labels for
SWL's.
I've run QQSL on both a 486/33 and 386/25 with SVGA, an AT with
EGA, an AT with MDA, and an XT with slow CGA, and had no problems
of any nature on these systems.
Meaningful sound has been incorporated into QQSL in the form of
two quick "up tones" or two quick "down tones", lasting approxi-
mately 4/18ths of a second for each pair of tones. Generally
speaking, the down tones mean that you made an error or that you
need to pay attention to a message on the screen, and up tones
mean that an operation was successful. These tones may be disa-
bled by the Configuration menu command.
QQSLCD
======
The full distribution copy of QQSL includes a Shareware program
named QQSLCD, which is contained in the self-extracting archive
QQSL_CD. Full instructions for running QQSLCD are contained in
the files which will now be extracted. At the DOS prompt, simply
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 3
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
enter:
QQSL_CD <CR>
Using data from the QQSL.LBL file, QQSLCD will search your CD-ROM
disc for address information for U.S. amateurs, and will then
print address labels when requested. A CD-ROM drive is required,
along with the Buckmaster HamCall CD disc.
QQSLCD was written by:
Tom Palko - WB5ASD
P.O. Box 8762
Alexandria, LA 71306-1762
U.S.A.
This program is being distributed with QQSL as both a favor to
WB5ASD and to those that use and like it. I've not been able to
fully test it, since I don't have a CD-ROM drive. If you have
any problems, questions, compliments, or anything else you wish
to discuss concerning QQSLCD, please take it up with Tom! Addi-
tionally, if you use and like QQSLCD, again I'd like to point out
to you that this is a Shareware program. Registration informa-
tion can be found in the QQSLCD.DOC file.
PRINTED MANUAL
==============
Many users have asked me about providing a printed manual to
licensed users. I had decided against this for a number of
reasons:
1. Printing costs alone would add considerably to the cost
of a licensed copy of QQSL.
2. This manual is a dynamic document, by this I mean that
there are many, many changes with each new version of QQSL. A
new printed manual with each release would be very impractical,
both for users and for myself.
3. Many users don't realize that printed manuals aren't
necessary. Once you become used to viewing manuals online, you
should find that you prefer this to a printed manual, I know I
do! NOTE: QQSL.DOC has been formatted without any special
fonts, underlines, italics, nor any other characters which would
detract from online viewing. The only special character that you
might see on your screen is the "^L", which denotes page breaks.
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 4
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
Therefore, this manual is not only suitable for either printing
or online viewing, but is also a VERY GOOD example of a manual
which begs to be viewed online!
I know that there are some of you that will still insist on
having a printed manual, even after reading the above. For these
people, order information for a printed manual may be found in
the ORDER.FRM file. The manual may be purchased separately, if
necessary.
ABOUT THE DEMONSTRATION COPY
============================
If you haven't licensed your copy of QQSL, then you'll find that
the demo version of QQSL you're using is identical to that used
by paid users, but with four notable exceptions:
1. The Print menu command will not print out more than three
labels!
2. The bottom line on each label now shows an advertisement
for QQSL. Licensed users may change this line to anything they
wish, but non-licensed users are stuck with it - as is!
3. The words "Demonstration copy: 3-label limit!" on the
title page will continually blink on and off.
4. The program starts and ends with a "Demo Reminder".
NOTE: Your acceptance of the limitations of the demo copy is NOT
an excuse to avoid licensing - send payment to the author if you
continue to use QQSL past the one-month trial period!
REMINDER: With the exception of the 3-label limit, bottom line
advertisement, blinking words on the title page, and the Demo
Reminder, the demonstration and licensed copies of QQSL are
identical!
WHY DID I WRITE QQSL?
=====================
QQSL was originally written for my private use. But, as I worked
on the program, I felt that others would have similar needs, so I
decided to rewrite QQSL for use by the general user.
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 5
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
My primary personal need for QQSL is to respond to incoming QSL's
from the DX QSL bureaus. I average approximately 100 cards
monthly, and find that this total increases and decreases along
with the sunspot highs and lows. During the sunspot highs, I've
often had months when I received 300+ QSL's! After receiving
25,000+ QSL cards, I no longer get excited about receiving QSL's.
But, I feel that one is obligated to respond when he or she
receives a QSL card. To do otherwise is RUDE and does nothing to
foster the goodwill normally generated by ham radio.
Although there are now a LOT of different programs which produce
QSL labels, none of them used a format I cared for. It seemed
that they all simply print the minimum information required to
confirm a QSO, without any thought about some of the niceties
which could also be included. QQSL solved this problem for dot
matrix printer users by continually switching fonts, printing the
first line (the call sign) using a large 5 char/in font and the
remaining lines using the very small 17 char/in font. Therefore,
the total number of characters which can be printed on a QQSL
label are 219. A LOT of information can be conveyed with this
many characters. Additionally, the call letters stand out, often
eliminating the need to write the call separately in large let-
ters as required by some QSL bureaus. The "niceties" mentioned
above are included in label lines 4 and 5, which may be custom-
ized by the user. Similar design rules governed development of
routines for laser printer users.
In addition to the lack of multiple fonts, I'd noticed that many
other programs require a full computerized log and will only
generate labels using information from this file. Although I
normally store most of my log information on a computer, I found
it to be very inconvenient to join various logs together, format
them into whatever format the labeling program in question need-
ed, and then tagging the lines which required a QSL label. It
was much faster for me to type the applicable label using written
logs and/or the QSO information from cards received. I think
that once you discover how fast you can enter label information
using QQSL, you'll agree that there is no advantage to working
from a "data base" of QSO information. But - by popular demand,
I finally gave in and have added an extensive import capability
<HI!>.
To summarize all the above, while repeating myself: Most pro-
grams produce QSL labels as an "afterthought". With QQSL, QSL
labels are the ONLY thought! And since labels are the only
thought, I've devoted 100% of my energies to making QQSL the
"Ultimate QSL Label Program"!
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 6
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
LEARNING QQSL
=============
The best way to learn QQSL is as follows:
1. Scan the documentation! Don't worry if parts don't make
sense, they will later. I've gone to a lot of detail on how to
use the program, probably more than was necessary. Because of
this detail, an in-depth study of the documentation at this point
in time would probably cause more confusion than anything else!
2. Copy the extracted files from the QQSL archive into a
single directory or onto a single floppy diskette (don't forget
to make a backup). NOTE: If you are using floppy diskette, high
density is required.
3. Run one or more QQSL practice sessions, entering ficti-
tious QSO information as you proceed. Test the Import menu
command with one or more of your current contest files. Use ALL
possible menu commands as you practice, and enter erroneous data
along with good information so that you can see how QQSL reacts
to errors. Print out lots of labels, but don't waste continuous-
feed labels or laser label paper for this testing phase - your
normal paper in your printer will suffice. This is also a good
time to make permanent changes to label lines 4 and 5 (modifiable
only by licensed users), using the Modify menu command as de-
scribed in the "Modify" section. Use the documentation when
doing these tasks, but only if you're stuck!
4. Now, study the documentation carefully from the first
line to the last.
5. If you're just getting familiar with a new version of
QQSL, all that may be needed is for you to read about the latest
enhancements in the front of HISTORY.DOC file, and then search
the index for more information about new features which catch
your interest.
You're now a QQSL "expert"!
GETTING STARTED
===============
QQSL will run on an IBM PC or compatible running under MS-2.0 or
greater. Any monitor and display adapter may be used and large
amounts of memory are not required. If you are running QQSL
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 7
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
from a floppy diskette, the diskette must not be write pro-
tected, but make sure you have a backup copy! NOTE: If you are
using floppy diskette, high density is required.
The following files must all be in the same directory or on the
same floppy diskette from which you run QQSL:
QQSL.EXE
SORTF.COM
Actually, either program may be anywhere in your DOS PATH, and
you may then simply execute QQSL from the same directory or
diskette which contains QQSL.EXE. If you're asking what a PATH
is, then disregard this information and ensure that the above
files are in the same directory or on the same floppy diskette as
previously described.
If you have a floppy-only computer, you shouldn't put any files
on the floppy other than the above, since the additional files
will simply use space that could be utilized by label files.
To run QQSL, simply enter:
QQSL <CR>
MENUS
=====
Labels are saved to a file named QQSL.LBL. The first time you
run QQSL (or if you run QQSL after deleting your QQSL.LBL file
with the Delete menu command), QQSL will detect that you don't
have an existing label file and you'll see a menu with the fol-
lowing menu commands:
About QQSL
Create label file
Import log file
aLign printer
Modify lines 4/5
cOnfigure QQSL
Quit program
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 8
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
You may use the arrow keys to select the appropriate menu item
and then press <Enter>, or you may simply press a key correspond-
ing to the first letter of the desired menu item. For "power
users", the following will tell you all there is to know about
QQSL menus:
Menu Movement Key Action
----------------- ------
UpArrow............moves selection bar up
DownArrow..........moves selection bar down
Enter..............selects the item that the
selection bar is on
Single Character...selects the item beginning with that
character
Home...............moves selection bar to menu top
End................moves selection bar to menu bottom
Esc................return to previous menu
QQSL also supports the mouse as follows:
Key Action
--- ------
Left button........same as the enter key above
Right button.......same as the <Esc> key
Middle button......not used
Mouse movement.....select an item
Subsequent runs of QQSL will show this menu:
Add new labels
Count labels
Delete QQSL.LBL
Import log file
aLign printer
Modify lines 4/5
cOnfigure QQSL
Print all labels
Sort labels
Quit program
A description of each of these menu commands follows . . .
About QQSL
==========
This menu command will pop up a window telling you something
about QQSL, very similar to the Windows 3.x ABOUT command.
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 9
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
Create Label File (or) Add New Labels
=====================================
These menu commands are essentially the same. The only differ-
ence is that Create will start a new QQSL.LBL file and Add will
append new labels to the existing QQSL.LBL file. You don't need
to be concerned as to whether you need to enter "C" or "A", as
QQSL has built-in safeguards to prevent the wrong menu command
from being selected.
You are about to discover that entering label information with
QQSL is FAST, as speed was foremost in my mind during the entire
program development process. This speed comes about because
duplicate information is carried forward from one saved label to
the next. Additionally, the RS(T) automatically has a "9" ap-
pended to the end for AMTOR, CW, Packet, and RTTY and removed for
FM and SSB. Because of these enhancements, you'll be amazed at
how fast you can create labels from the keyboard.
The editing keys for the Add/Create menu commands are mostly
intuitive and will be quite easy to master. But, for those who
want to know ALL the possible edit keys, they are as follows:
Field Editing Key Action
----------------- ------
LeftArrow..........cursor left
RightArrow.........cursor right
UpArrow............cursor up
DownArrow..........cursor down
Ctrl-LeftArrow.....word left
Ctrl-RightArrow....word right
Tab................field right
Shift-Tab..........field left
Enter..............process field
F2.................process all fields, save temporary
F6.................process all fields, save permanent
Ctrl-Enter.........same as F2
Period (.).........enter period, delete to end of field
Home...............beginning of field
End................end of field line / end of field
Ctrl-Home..........beginning of first field
Ctrl-End...........end of last field
Ins................toggle field insert mode
Del................delete character at cursor
BackSpace..........delete character left
Ctrl-BackSpace.....delete word left
Ctrl-R.............restore field to original contents
Ctrl-T.............delete word right
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 10
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
Ctrl-U.............delete to end of field
Ctrl-Y.............delete to end of last field
Esc................return to previous menu
NOTE: All the above edit keys work the same with the Modify menu
command.
QQSL also supports the mouse as described previously:
The first time you use the Add/Create menu command, all fields
(other than the Call sign) will be preset to common values and
may then be adjusted as necessary. If you've just finished
importing a log file, the last label imported will be shown on
the Add/Create form. Label information for saved [F6] entries
will be carried forward from label to label, with one exception -
the RS(T) will change back to 59 (or 599) after each label is
saved. I think that you'll find this a very "workable" arrange-
ment once you become accustomed to it.
You don't need to be concerned about whether or not to use capi-
tal letters as QQSL automatically converts all lower case letters
to upper case.
Add/Create input is as follows:
Call Sign
---------
Enter the full call sign.
Although I have never heard a call sign with more than twelve
characters (more on that later), QQSL will accept up to 15. The
letters "A" - "Z", the numbers "1" - "0", and special characters
"/", and "-" are the only valid characters allowed in this field.
If you precede the call sign with spaces, these spaces will be
removed and the call sign will be shifted to the left. QQSL will
validate a call sign to ensure that it contains at least three
characters and that the prefix is not all numbers. Embedded
spaces will also cause a call sign to be flagged as invalid. No
further validations are performed to call signs, so be sure to
"eyeball" each entry carefully before proceeding to the next
field.
If you're asking yourself, "Why is the dash (-) a valid charac-
ter"? This is because the dash is commonly used in SWL calls.
If you use a dash in the call and then press [F6] to save the
label, QQSL will check the SWL field to ensure that it is a "Y".
If not, a warning will be issued, but you'll have the option to
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 11
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
save the label if you wish.
SPECIAL NOTE: The Call sign field has one unique difference from
most of the other fields. After pressing [F6] to save a label,
you'll notice that the cursor is now positioned at the beginning
of the Call field. You now have two choices:
1. Start typing the next call. You'll notice that old call
sign is immediately blanked out, or
2. Use any of the edit keys previously described to modify
the current call.
QQSL will decide with the FIRST keystroke whether you are enter-
ing a new call or modifying the old. There are a number of
reasons why I set up this field to behave this way. The most
important is that I found touch typists (such as myself) tended
to not notice that they were entering short calls incorrectly
after entering longer calls. For example, if I were to press
[F6] to save a label for WA6XYZ and then immediately start typing
a label for KC4B, the Tab or Enter key which I pressed following
the "B" would leave the letters "YZ" behind, thereby creating a
label for KC4BYZ! "Two-finger" typists will probably never
appreciate the effort I went through to handle the Call sign
field in this manner, but touch-typists will!
MHz
---
QQSL recognizes the following frequency ranges:
1.800 - 2.000
3.500 - 4.000
7.000 - 7.300
10.100 - 10.150
14.000 - 14.350
18.068 - 18.168
21.000 - 21.450
24.890 - 24.990
28.000 - 29.700
50.000 - 54.000
144.000 - 148.000
222.000 - 225.000
420.000 - 450.000
902.000 - 928.000
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 12
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
You may enter as little or as many characters as you wish to show
the frequency for a QSO, to a maximum of seven characters. For
example, a SSB QSO on 14.234 MHz could be entered as:
14
14.
14.2
14.23
14.234
14.2340
The last example shows the degree of exactness you can achieve
(if desired) with the seven-character maximum.
Additionally, 1.2G, 2.3G, 3.4G, 5.7G, 10G, 24G, and 48G are also
recognized as valid entries. Frequencies other than these will
be rejected.
If anyone has any need for frequencies beyond 48 GHz, let me know
and I'll gladly incorporate their choices. But, I personally
plan to avoid the UHF bands, as lead underwear is a bit expensive
at the local Sears . . . just kidding <HI!>.
SPECIAL NOTE: The MHz field has one unique difference from most
of the other fields. After pressing [F6] to save a label and
then entering a new Call sign as described in the previous sub-
section, you'll notice that the cursor is now positioned at the
beginning of the MHz field. You now have two choices:
1. Start typing the new frequency. You'll notice that old
frequency is immediately blanked out, or
2. Use any of the edit keys described above to modify the
current frequency.
Again, this is one of those features that is easier understood if
it is "played with" rather than discussed <HI!>.
Mode (A/C/F/P/R/S)
------------------
These letters indicate (A)MTOR, (C)W, (F)M, (P)acket, (R)TTY, and
(S)SB.
Enter the appropriate letter and the remainder of the mode will
be automatically displayed. I realize I've left out the satel-
lite and SSTV modes - see the "THINGS TO COME" section in this
document for more information on this topic.
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 13
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
RS(T)
-----
Any valid RS(T) report will be accepted.
The third number (9) for all reports is automatically provided
for AMTOR, CW, Packet, and RTTY, and removed for both FM and SSB.
If you work someone on one of the first four modes and give them
something other than a "9" for (T)one, I guess you'd better fill
out this QSL by hand <HI!>. I doubt this will be a problem
though as I haven't seen a tone other than "9" given during a QSO
for over twenty-five years! As explained earlier, this field
will change back to 59 or 599 depending on the mode after each
label is saved.
Time (UTC)
----------
Enter the time in UTC (old GMT). Invalid times will be rejected.
Day
---
01 - 31. Invalid days will be rejected.
Month
-----
01 - 12. Invalid months will be rejected.
If the day is "31", QQSL will not accept 02, 04, 06, 09, nor 11.
If the day is "30", QQSL will not accept 02. The month will be
converted to either English characters (Jan - Dec) or Roman
numerals (I - XII) on the label, depending on how you have set
the month format with the Configuration menu command. If you're
in the middle of a label session and forget which month format
you've chosen, both the system date in the upper-left corner of
the screen and the sample label for the Modify menu command will
be in the selected format.
NOTE: If you are sending QSL's to hams in other countries, I'd
suggest using Roman numerals, as this is the ONLY format that
will not be misinterpreted anywhere in the world. Think about
it!
Year
----
1945 - 2037 are the only valid years at this time. I'll be happy
to extend this period if I'm still around in forty years <HI!>.
If you have entered "29" as day and "02" as month, only a leap
year will be accepted. Note: Only one out of four centennial
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 14
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
years (years divisible by 100 with no remainder) has a "leap day"
in February. The year 2000 is one of these years, therefore
29/02/2000 will be accepted as a valid date by QQSL.
QSL (P/T)
---------
(P)lease or (T)hanks only. Any other entry will be rejected.
If you are entering a label for an SWL, "P" will be flagged as
invalid.
SWL (Y/N)
---------
(Y)es or (N)o only. Invalid characters will be rejected.
If you enter "Y", QQSL will check the call to see if it looks
like an SWL call (includes one or more dashes). If not, a warn-
ing will be issued, but you'll have the option to save the label
if you wish.
[F6]
----
Press the [F6] key to save the completed label. You do not need
to be at the end of the Add/Create form to press this key.
Individual fields are edited as they are entered, but validations
which require cross referencing fields are performed at this
time. You'll get an error message and "down tones" if there are
errors, or you'll get "up tones" if all is OK and the label was
saved. The moving light bar changes density at specific prede-
termined points during the save process, and therefore should be
considered a practical/useful feature rather than decoration. Of
course this light bar may not appear to move at all if you have a
fast PC! You may continue to enter the information for the next
label as the current one is being saved - if you're fast enough
<HI!>. NOTE: After pressing [F6] to save the label, you'll
notice that all fields are still on the form, with the exception
that the RS(T) has reverted to 59 or 599 depending on mode. All
of this information may be re-used as necessary for the next
label!
<Esc>
-----
Press the <Esc> key to return to the main menu.
Should you later decide to return to the Add/Create menu command,
all label information from the last time you saved a label will
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 15
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
still be available on the form. The right mouse button also acts
as the <Esc> key.
QQSL was written so that system crashes will not cause you to
lose files! For example, you're an avid contester in W4-land who
is in the process of entering QSL label information for 600
Eastern European QSL's which just arrived from the bureau. These
labels are being added to an existing QQSL.LBL file which already
contains approximately 200 labels. Suddenly, there's a brief
power interruption! In this situation, you'd normally lose the
entire QQSL.LBL file, including the 200 labels from your previous
sessions!! Trust me - these situations in which a computer user
loses all his or her work because of system or application fail-
ure are quite common! Therefore, I have written QQSL in such a
manner that it will never lose more the single label which you
are currently processing, and I have extensively tested this
feature! Prove it to yourself - start a new QQSL.LBL file by
entering a few fictitious labels. Then, pull the plug as you are
entering the information for a new label. After you turn the
power back on, go directly to the Print menu command and print
out the test labels. You'll see that only the label that you
were working on when you threw the switch was lost! This might
seem to be a minor feature to some of you, but if you have ever
lost all your work from a system crash, you'll appreciate the
sizable effort I put forth to install and test this capability!
Count labels
============
This menu command is self-explanatory. It's a good idea to
invoke the Count menu command from time to time to see if the
label file is the size that you normally like to print. Addi-
tionally, the Sort menu command (described below) will not sort
an unlimited number of labels. If you have a LOT of labels in
your QQSL.LBL file, this menu command will let you know that it
is about to exceed the number of labels that the Sort menu com-
mand can reasonably handle. Count displays the count continuous-
ly as it counts the labels in the QQSL.LBL file. I set it up
this way just because I thought it looked neat! If you are
counting a small number of labels, this feature won't mean much.
But if you're counting a lot of labels, it's fun to watch the
numbers spinning!
Trivia - for those of you who have been considering an upgrade to
a faster computer, you might want to consider this: On my clone
486/33, a Count against a label file of 100 labels is normally
completed before my finger is fully removed from the "C" key!
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 16
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
Delete QQSL.LBL
===============
This menu command would normally be selected after you have
printed out your current label file. When selecting this menu
command, you'll see:
Delete QQSL.LBL...are you sure? [y,N]
This prompt is provided in case you've accidentally pressed the
"D" key or in case you might now wish to change your mind. You
may now press "Y" to delete QQSL.LBL or "N" if you wish to keep
the file. If you select "Y", QQSL.BAK (created by the Sort menu
command) will also be deleted, along with QQSL.LBL.
TIP: I recommend that you keep a copy of PC Tools, Norton Utili-
ties, or some other utility program which allows "undeleting"
files, and that you know how to use it! Then, if you delete
QQSL.LBL and discover that you need it back for any reason,
immediately stop whatever you're doing and recover the deleted
file. NOTE: It is very important to recover a file as soon as
you discover that you need it back, as DOS will write data over
your deleted file sooner or later, at which time it is no longer
possible to undelete it! By the way, this undeleting program
will have many uses beyond QQSL, as I'm sure you can imagine!
TIP 2: Don't delete QQSL.LBL until all the labels have been re-
moved from their backing and are affixed to your QSL cards. This
way, individual labels can be reprinted if they become "messed
up" in any way.
Import log file
===============
This menu command will convert ASCII files created by DXBASE,
K1EA, and K8CC programs into QQSL labels.
Briefly - ASCII files are files which are stored in plain English
text and may easily be read by a user using any of the common
utility programs available for DOS PC's. Binary files are files
which are saved in computer format and cannot easily be read by
the average user. In order to simplify things for the QQSL user,
QQSL reads only ASCII files. This means that .BIN files created
by K1EA's CT program and .QSO files created by K8CC's NA program
may not be used as input to QQSL's Import function. On the other
hand, any of the files created by CT's or NA's WRITELOG command
may be read and processed by QQSL.
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 17
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
DXBASE
------
For DXBASE, only the QSOLOG.SDF file (created by functions pro-
vided from within DXBASE) may be imported into QQSL. Labels will
be created only for QSO's which you've "tagged" within DXBASE as
requiring a label. QQSL will look in the current directory for
the QSOLOG.SDF file. If not found, it will then look in the
\DXB20 directory on the current drive. Note that this means if
you have a copy of QSOLOG.SDF in both the current directory and
in the \DXB20 directory, the file in the current directory will
be processed. If you've identified a particular QSO as being
confirmed, the label will say "Thanks QSL", otherwise it will say
"Please QSL".
Note that QQSL has been tested against QSOLOG.SDF files created
by DXBASE 2.0, only. Also note that the version 2.05 "RTTY by
WF1B" program will also convert its files into DXBASE QSOLOG.SDF
formatted files. Although I haven't tested a QSOLOG.SDF file
created by WF1B, give it a try if you're a RTTY fan looking for
some nice QSL labels.
K1EA
----
The following contests are now supported by K1EA's CT program and
will create files which may be imported by QQSL:
A160 ARRL 160 Meter
AA All Asia, DX Side
AR10 ARRL 10 Meter
ARDX ARRL DX Test, DX Side
ARRL ARRL DX Test, W/VE Side
C160 CQ 160 Meter
CQP Cal QSO Party
CQWW CQ World Wide
DXPN DXpedition
FD Field Day
IARU HF World Championship
SS ARRL Sweepstakes
VHF ARRL VHF QSO Party
WAE Worked All Europe
WPX CQ Prefix Test
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 18
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
Files with the following file name extensions are created by CT's
WRITELOG command: 10, 12, 15, 17, 20, 30, 40, 80, 160, ALL, LOG,
RES (created with the B2R program), and SAT. Most of these
files may be imported by QQSL, with exceptions noted below. The
following are examples of valid file names:
ARRLDX92.ALL
CQWWCW92.10
The following notes are specific to files created by CT only and
are not prioritized:
1. CT has the capability to automatically log full frequency
when the user's XCVR readout is being detected by CT and used
while logging. I call this capability "auto-freq-detect", and
think it is far superior to the user entering Alt-F1 or Alt-F2 to
tell CT that bands have been changed. Not having a direct hookup
at the home QTH though, I can only provide the capability to
correctly import auto-freq-detect files when users send me sam-
ples. Two users did just that and QQSL now correctly imports
DXpedition and 10-Meter Contest logs made with CT V8.01 by auto-
freq-detect users. Unfortunately though, with this release of
QQSL only these two modes are being supported in auto-freq-de-
tect. If anyone else is using auto-freq-detect and finds that
QQSL does not properly import other CT contest files, please
provide me with a test file and I will add the capability to
import the new format. Of course, the next upgrade for this user
would then be sent without charge!
2. The CT Field Day Contest allows 6, 2, NOV (Novice), SAT
(Satellite), and PKT (Packet) to be entered as bands. QQSL will
use 50 MHz for 6 meters, 144 MHz for 2, and will assume that PKT
is a 144 MHz contact and that NOV is a 28 MHz contact. Addition-
ally, SAT will be shown as "Satellite" on the label. In the case
of SAT, I wasn't happy with how I handled this entry. If anyone
has any better idea, I'm QRV for suggestions! On this subject,
the CT DXpedition mode allows SAT for mode. This will also be
shown as "Satellite" on the label as described above.
NOTE: I talked with the ARRL's DXCC desk in early February,
1993. At this time, I was told that just about anything that
identifies the QSL as a satellite contact would qualify the card
as valid towards Satellite DXCC. With this in mind, it seems
that all of the following would be acceptable to the DXCC desk:
AO-13, OSCAR, MODE-B, Satellite, etc. Therefore (again), QQSL
labels printed from satellite QSO's logged with CT would all be
acceptable towards Satellite DXCC!
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 19
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
3. The WAE.10-160 and WAE.ALL files from CT versions 6.26,
7.01, and 8.01 have no QSO dates in the file. You'll need to use
the B2R program to create a .RES file from the WAE.BIN file and
import this .RES file into QQSL.
4. The VHF.RES file from version 6.26 does not store band
correctly. Use the .RES file as described above.
5. The SS.RES file from CT versions 6.26 and 7.01 do not
have RS(T) or mode, nor is it possible to determine the informa-
tion from this file. Instead, use the SS.ALL file as input to
QQSL.
6. There was no B2R program included with CT version 8.01.
Therefore it is not known whether or not .RES files created with
later versions of CT will be compatible with QQSL.
7. The version 7.01 B2R program would not create a .RES file
from the A160 (ARRL 160 Meter) contest .BIN file. Therefore, it
is uncertain whether or not a A160.RES file created with later
versions of CT would work with QQSL.
8. The version 7.01 B2R program created an invalid FD.RES
file! Use the FD.ALL file instead.
9. CT version 7.01 stores RTTY QSO information in the
CQWW.RES and the DXPN.RES files without identifying mode and
assigns a RS(T) of 59 to these QSO's. Obviously, QQSL would have
no choice but to handle these as SSB QSO's! Use one of the many
other CQWW or DXPN files if you have RTTY QSO's.
10. CT version 8.01 actually caused my system to either lock
up or reboot when I entered WRITELOG with the California QSO
Party (CQP). Therefore it was not possible for me to test QQSL
against files created by this contest.
11. CT version 8.01 no longer offers RTTY mode with the CQWW
contest. If you're a RTTY buff like myself, I strongly suggest
you write WF1B for information about his "RTTY by WF1B" program.
I use it in RTTY contests and find it to be outstanding!
12. If you're using CT version 5.xx or 4.xx, use the B2R
program to create .RES files as described above. Although these
older versions of the program are no longer supported, the re-
sulting .RES files should import into QQSL without problems.
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 20
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
K8CC
----
The following contests are now supported by K8CC's NA program and
will create files which may be imported by QQSL:
ARRL 10M
ARRL 160M
ARRL Field Day
ARRL SS
CQWW 160M
IARU HF
NA QSO Party
NA Sprint
Novice Roundup
Files with the following extensions are created by executing the
WRITELOG command when exiting NA: LOG and PRN. Either of these
files may be imported by QQSL. The following are examples of
valid file names:
NAQSOSSB.LOG
SPRINTCW.PRN
Import Instructions
-------------------
Before invoking the Import menu command, be sure that files to be
imported are in your working directory (the directory from which
you normally run QQSL). Files to be imported MUST NOT be modi-
fied by your word processor - this will cause unpredictable
results! Highlight the Import menu command selection using arrow
keys and press Enter or 'I' to bring up a second window. A
single press of the left mouse button on this selection will also
work. You may now select DXBASE, K1EA, or K8CC using the same
guidelines. If you have selected DXBASE, the QSOLOG.SDF file
will automatically be selected for import and your instructions
continue with the next paragraph. If you've selected K1EA or
K8CC, you'll now be shown a window with ALL the files (not just
contest files) in the current directory. You may scroll through
the files listed in this window with either the keyboard arrow
keys or by using a mouse and the scroll bar arrows on the right
side of the window. All "menu movement keys" described at the
beginning of the "Menus" section are functional. To summarize
these keys, you may enter the first letter of the name of the
file you are interested in importing, and the first file which
starts with this letter will be highlighted. You may use <Home>
to go to the beginning of the file list, <End> to go to the end,
and <Esc> or the right mouse button to take you out of the file
list without importing any labels. Once you have selected the
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 21
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
applicable file, press Enter or "click" on the file name with the
left mouse button to select the file that you wish to import.
After selecting the appropriate file, the file selection menu
will disappear and the selected file will appear in a small
window to the left of the main menu. At the right of the main
menu is another window showing:
Please or Thanks QSL? [P/t]
At this time, most users will simply press the letter "P", with-
out the quotes (or the Enter key to select the default "P"). All
labels produced from the selected file will then state "Please
QSL". On the other hand, QSL managers or rarer DX stations will
probably want to select the "T" key, which will then print
"Thanks QSL" on all labels for the selected file. In this man-
ner, you'll have QSL labels ready to go for the expected ava-
lanche of QSL requests <HI!>.
General notes (not prioritized):
1. Just before running the QQSL Import function is the best
time to use the Modify menu command to change the last two label
lines, should you wish to direct your remarks towards the specif-
ic contest for which you're now creating labels. Additionally,
be sure to cOnfigure for (E)nglish or (R)oman month before im-
porting labels.
2. Neither CT nor NA make any provision for reports other
than 59 or 599 to be sent. Therefore, all you'll see is 59 or
599 on your imported labels. DXBASE RS(T)'s are correctly re-
corded on the label, just as you sent them.
3. QQSL has been tested with CT versions 6.26, 7.01, and
8.01, and NA versions 5.12 and 6.02. If you're using versions
other than these, be sure to print out your current label file
before testing QQSL against your contest program files.
4. I've heard that NA version 7.00 was released at Dayton,
1992. I don't have a copy of this program and probably won't get
one as I haven't perceived much interest in this program compared
to CT. If you have NA version 7.0 and wish to import files into
QQSL from this program, let me know and we'll work something out.
And no - it won't cost you anything <HI!>.
5. The import function has been programmed in such a manner
that it should be relatively easy to program additional import
capabilities as I learn about the different logging programs.
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 22
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
So, if you have a favorite logging program on your PC, please get
in touch with me and we'll talk. And no - this won't cost you
anything either, <HI!>. If I later add a new import log file to
QQSL using the information gathered from you, you'll receive a
free upgrade when the revised program is ready for distribution!
Reminder: Files to be imported MUST NOT be modified by your word
processor - this will cause unpredictable results!
Align Printer
=============
This menu command will print out dummy labels, which may be used
to line up labels in your printer.
For dot matrix users: each time you press "L", QQSL will print
out one dummy label. NOTE: This is also a good time to turn on
your printer's near letter quality (NLQ) capability, if you have
it. Doing so will make the labels look MUCH better. A reminder
to switch over to NLQ mode will flash on the screen for five
seconds while each dummy label is printing out. If you have
specified in your configuration that zeros are to be slashed,
this slash will also appear in the first line of the dummy label.
For laser printer users: each time you press "L", QQSL will
print out one PAGE of dummy labels. You'll be shown a running
count of the number of dummy labels as they are sent to the
printer. Check the index for the "Print All Labels" section for
more information on how these labels should appear. TIP: Con-
sidering the high prices charged for laser label paper, I recom-
mend that you use your normal paper when checking alignment. You
then take a blank label page and remove the two labels at the
top, the two from the last line, and two more from any line near
the middle. Lay this page over the page generated by the Align
menu command to see how well your actual labels will center.
Neat trick - right? <HI!>
Modify lines 4/5
================
The information which prints on the last two thirds of line 4 and
all of line 5 (for licensed users only) can be either permanently
or temporarily modified by this menu command. Sample lines 4 and
5 have been pre-loaded by the program author. Selecting Modify
will allow you to change either line 4, line 5, both lines, or
neither (should you change your mind). Changes can be either
temporary (used for this QQSL session only) or permanent (this
and all future QQSL sessions). Lower case letters will NOT be
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 23
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
converted to upper case for lines 4 and 5.
NOTE: Changes to lines 4 and 5 will apply only to labels created
AFTER the change - labels created before Modifying lines 4 and 5
will remain the same, which is the way it should be!
The Modify form is very straight-forward, and is actually simpler
to use than describe. Additionally, all of the edit keys shown
above in the description of the "Create Label File" or "Add New
Labels" section will also work the same in the Modify menu com-
mand.
The first time you run QQSL, you must immediately run Modify in
order to replace line 4 and 5 information with your personal
preferences. Be sure to then save the new lines permanently
[F6]. The new information you entered will then be available for
all future QQSL sessions.
NOTE: The dollar sign ($) is not allowed on lines 4 or 5 as I'm
using this character in the QQSL.LBL file to separate label
lines. Take a look at a QQSL.LBL file using your favorite word
processor in (N)ondocument mode or Vernon Buerg's LIST program
and you'll see what I mean. If the lack of this character causes
you a problem, let me know and I'll consider alternatives.
[F2]
----
This is the "save temporary" key, which will save the modified
lines 4 and 5 for use during the current QQSL session only.
[F6]
----
This is the "save permanent" key, which will allow use of the
modified lines 4 and 5 during this session and will also write
the new lines to your QQSL.EXE program for use in future QQSL
sessions. Be careful with this key - if you're not sure you want
to lose the current line 4 and 5 information, you might consider
using [F2] instead.
<Esc>
-----
If you type some changes, but then decide you want to leave the
lines as they were, press either <Esc> or the right mouse button
to return to the main menu BEFORE pressing [F2] or [F6].
NOTE: If you have any kind of "virus detection" software running
as a TSR (watching execution of other DOS programs), [F6] (perma-
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 24
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
nent save) may set off an "alarm" when it attempts to write back
the configuration information to QQSL.EXE. You can ignore the
warning, but if you're unhappy doing so I'd recommend you run any
of the virus detection programs against the new copy of QQSL.EXE
to assure yourself that the program hasn't become "sick". The
best and least expensive (in my opinion) of these programs is the
Shareware program SCAN, written my McAfee Associates and avail-
able on many of the better computer bulletin boards (BBS's).
NOTE 2: I have probably made the Modify command sound more com-
plicated than it really is. Play around with it, print a label
or two, and you'll see that it's really quite simple! This is a
situation where a picture is worth 1,000 words <HI!>.
Configure QQSL
==============
Before you use QQSL for the first time, you'll want to configure
the program for your particular preferences. Additionally, when
you purchase a license for your copy of QQSL, you'll be supplied
with a unique serial number which must be configured into QQSL in
order to remove the demonstration version limitations. Please
note that you must use Save Permanent [F6] to install your per-
sonal serial number.
All QQSL configuration is done with this menu command, and all
configuration changes are applied immediately when either the
[F2] or [F6] key is pressed.
IMPORTANT: Versions of QQSL prior to 5.1 were distributed with a
separate configuration program, named QQSLCFG. DO NOT use any of
these older QQSLCFG programs to configure QQSL, since to do so
would cause erroneous (and possibly disastrous) results.
To configure QQSL, you must first ensure that the following file
is in the same directory or on the same floppy diskette from
which you started QQSL:
QQSL.EXE
NOTE: If you are using floppy diskette, high density is re-
quired.
You then simply select the Configuration menu command from the
main menu. QQSL will then show you a modifiable form, which
shows you your current configuration. These fields and their
possible values are:
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 25
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
Serial Number
-------------
If you have licensed your copy of QQSL with the author, enter
your personal ten-character serial number. If you are using a
demo copy of QQSL, enter the phrase "QQSL IS OK" (without the
quotes).
QQSL will not allow you to skip this field if it is blank, nor
will it allow you to enter an invalid serial number. Those who
are using licensed copies of QQSL and had previously installed
their serial number will NOT be prompted for an entry in this
field. Aren't you licensed users glad to hear that <HI!>?
Sound
-----
Enter "N" if you wish a silent program, otherwise enter "Y".
Month Format
------------
Enter "E" for English (Jan - Dec) or "R" for Roman (I - XII).
If you're in the middle of a label session and forget which month
format you've configured, both the system date in the upper-left
corner of the screen and the Modify sample label will be in the
selected format.
Slash Zero
----------
If your dot matrix printer automatically slashes the zero (0),
enter "N", otherwise enter "Y". Most amateur radio users have
probably configured their printer dip switches to automatically
slash zeros, in which case an "N" is REQUIRED in this field.
This parameter will have no affect with laser printers, as all
zeros are automatically slashed.
If you have entered "Y" and QQSL detects a zero in label line one
(the call sign or the string of fifteen digits in the test
label), it will print the zero, backspace, and then print a "/"
(slash) over the zero. QQSL will not attempt to slash zeros
other than in the first label line. NOTE: I've tested this
option extensively, and I've discovered that the backspace-slash
combination is NOT the same as the slashed zero normally produced
by dot matrix printers. With some printers, the backspace-slash
looked better than the standard slashed zero, and in some cases
it was worse. Again, the rule-of-thumb is that (if possible),
you should set your printer dip switches to automatically slash
zeros and enter an "N" in this field.
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 26
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
Printer
-------
If you have an Epson or Epson-compatible dot matrix printer,
enter "E". 95% of the QQSL users will be in this category! If
you have an IBM ProPrinter dot matrix printer or compatible,
enter "I". If unsure try both to see which is best for your
particular installation.
For laser users, If you have any of the Hewlett-Packard Series II
LaserJet printers (or compatible), enter "2". If you have any of
the Hewlett-Packard Series III (or Series IV) LaserJet printers
(or compatible), enter "3".
LPT Port
--------
If you're one of the lucky users who have multiple printers with
multiple ports on the back of your PC to support these printers,
enter the port number of the printer to which you wish to direct
QQSL labels. Valid entries are 1, 2, or 3, with the default
entry being '1'. 99% of the QQSL users (those with only a single
printer) will not need to change this parameter.
Color
-----
Enter "Y" if you have a color monitor, or "N" if you are using a
monochrome monitor or a laptop computer.
QQSL will normally detect that a monochrome system is being used
and will automatically convert colors to monochrome equivalents.
But, in some cases an "N" in this field will provide better
results than those provided by the automatic detection software.
If you using a monochrome system, try this field both ways to
determine which is better on your particular system. an "N" in
this field will substantially improve the display on most laptop
computers, while at the same time removing the QQSL's from the
background wallpaper in order to improve menu visibility.
NOTE: When running QQSL with Color set to "N", some of the
windows will appear "washed out". This is because QQSL was
written to be a color program. In interpreting colors to mono-
chrome, it will sometimes happen that a window's background will
be interpreted as white, which will then cause it to blend in
with the white background. But, both the window's border and its
text will be visible, so there should be no problem reading the
contents of the windows. I've alleviated the problem somewhat by
not printing the "QQSL's" in the background wallpaper and by not
using window shadows. Unfortunately though, the only way to get
completely around the monochrome interpretation problem is to
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 27
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
avoid the use of lighter colors, but this would have been at the
expense of the majority of the QQSL users! Of course, I wouldn't
consider this, so I'd like to recommend that you purchase a color
monitor and video card, as described later under the "Monitor
Information" heading. Check the index for the page number.
QQSL Wallpaper
----------------
Enter "Y" if you wish to continue seeing the QQSL's in the back-
ground, otherwise enter "N". Note that if you've configured for
a monochrome system as described above, this parameter is ignored
and no QQSL's are displayed.
[F2]
----
Press [F2] to save your configuration entries temporarily.
Changes made in this manner will be gone the next time you exe-
cute QQSL. If you are attempting to install your personal serial
number for the first time, pressing this key will generate an
error message.
[F6]
----
Press [F6] to save your configuration entries, at which time QQSL
will write configuration changes back to the QQSL.EXE program.
All configuration changes will then be in effect during this and
future QQSL sessions. Please note that you must use this key if
you are installing your personal serial number.
<Esc>
-----
Press <Esc> to abort configuration.
NOTE: If you have any kind of "virus detection" software running
as a TSR (watching execution of other DOS programs), [F6] (perma-
nent save) may set off an "alarm" when it attempts to write back
the configuration information to QQSL.EXE. You can ignore the
warning, but if you're unhappy doing so I'd recommend you run any
of the virus detection programs against the new copy of QQSL.EXE
to assure yourself that the program hasn't become "sick". The
best and least expensive (in my opinion) of these programs is the
Shareware program SCAN, written my McAfee Associates and avail-
able on many of the better bulletin boards.
NOTE 2: I've thought about making a separate configuration file,
in order that your personal preferences could be carried forward
from upgrade to upgrade, thereby eliminating the need to recon-
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 28
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
figure for each new version. But, I decided against this for
these reasons:
1. The Configuration menu command still needs to be run to
install the licensed user's serial number.
2. The installed parameters are simple and easy to remember.
3. Parameters are often enhanced from version to version,
which would thereby invalidating any previous configuration file.
Compare the parameters available in version 4.1 to those in the
current version and you'll see what I mean. Of course in this
situation, it would ALWAYS be necessary to reconfigure.
4. The delivered configuration defaults to the selections
which will be used by 99% of all QQSL users.
Print All Labels
================
After you have properly lined up the printer with the Align menu
command, enter "P" to print your entire label file. If you are
attempting to print an unsorted label file, QQSL will automati-
cally present you with you the option to sort the file before
printing. This sort will put all labels in "Callbook" order, and
it is highly recommended that you allow this sort to process if
these cards are destined for the QSL bureau. A count of the
number of labels printed is displayed on the screen and is con-
tinuously updated. This count will not coincide with the label
currently being printed if you have a print buffer or are using a
laser printer, but in all cases the end count will reflect the
actual number of labels printed.
The rest of this section is of interest only to laser printer us-
ers - the rest of you may skip down to the next heading.
IMPORTANT: Be sure to read whatever documentation came with your
laser printer as it relates to laser labels. Doing this may save
you considerable grief in the future. For instance, did you know
that you could damage your printer if you remove a label or two
from a label page, and then use the same page again in your
printer? The following quote is directly from the "LaserJet IIIP
Printer User's Manual": "Using label stock with spaces between
labels often results in labels peeling off during the printing
cycle, causing serious jamming problems". Of course, removing a
label and then reusing the sheet would DEFINITELY qualify as a
space between labels. You MUST read your printer documentation!
While at it, it isn't a bad idea to read any data sheets which
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 29
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
accompanied your blank label sheets.
QQSL was designed for use with Avery #5161 or #5261, 2-up label
paper. If you have any 2-up, 20-per-page label paper made by
another manufacturer, give it a try to see what happens. I'll be
happy to later add support for 3-up labels if there's enough
demand.
As stated in the "Configure QQSL" section, you may print QQSL
labels with either a Hewlett-Packard LaserJet series II, series
III, or any other compatible laser printer. If you're unsure
about which you have, configure for first one and then the other,
using the Align menu command and plain paper to see how your
labels will appear.
For your information, the second through the last line on your
labels will look the same, regardless of which laser printer
you've selected. The font for these lines is: Fixed, Medium,
Line Printer. The difference lies with the first line, and an
important difference it is! Series II users will see that the
first line utilizes a font which is: Fixed, Courier, Bold, 10
Pitch, 12 Point. A space is added between each pair of charac-
ters to make the first line look more "symmetrical". Series III
users have a real treat in store, since the selected font is:
Scalable, Bold, Italic, CG Times, and this looks GOOD on a label.
In both cases, I've selected fonts which are built into your
laser printer, so it isn't necessary for you to purchase and
install special font cartridges or download soft fonts. But, for
the series II user who might want to take advantage of the better
font offered for the series III user, it's OK to load a cartridge
or soft font which includes this format. Just be sure to then
select "3" as your printer when you configure QQSL.
For those "power users" who may wish to see the escape codes for
the selected fonts, they are:
Line 1, series II printer: <Esc>(8U<Esc>(s0p10.00h12.0v0s3b3T
Line 1, series III printer: <Esc>(8U<Esc>(s1p18.50v1s3b4101T
Lines 2 - 5, both printers: <Esc>(8U<Esc>(s0p16.67h8.5v0s0b0T
Sort Labels
===========
This menu command will sort the QQSL.LBL file in "Callbook" order
by call sign. Please note that the Sort function works with the
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 30
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
EXACT contents of the call field. Therefore, ZA1/AA4M will sort
up with the DX calls under the letter 'Z', whereas AA4M/ZA1 will
sort up with the U.S. calls under the letter 'A'. Your old
QQSL.LBL file will be renamed QQSL.BAK and saved in the current
directory (or floppy diskette). This backup file is created for
the unlikely situation that something goes wrong during the sort.
But, the only thing I have found that might cause a problem with
the Sort menu command is if there is a component failure or power
outage during sort execution. In the unlikely event this hap-
pens, the QQSL.BAK file can be renamed QQSL.LBL using the DOS REN
(rename) command and used for further processing!
The moving light bar changes density at specific predetermined
points during the Sort process, and therefore should be consid-
ered a practical/useful feature rather than only being decora-
tion. Of course this light bar may not appear to move at all if
you have a fast PC and are sorting a small file!
During development, I tested the Sort menu command on a 640 KB
"AT" clone with no expanded memory and a minimum of TSR's (Termi-
nate but Stay Resident) programs installed, and I was able to
sort 14,000 labels with no trouble. My suggestion though is that
you should consider the maximum sort capability to be approxi-
mately 10,000 records, or less if you don't have the full 640 KB
of RAM. TIP: If you're going to sort 3,000 or more labels, you
may as well take a break as this many labels will take a while to
sort, especially if you have a slow computer!
It's probably a good idea to not use the Sort menu command if
your files are all stored on floppy diskette, unless the QQSL.LBL
file is very small. This is because the Sort creates two addi-
tional files, QQSL.TMP and QQSL.BAK, which are both the same size
as QQSL.LBL. QQSL.TMP is subsequently deleted before the Sort is
finished, but nevertheless the space needs to be available during
the process. As you can see, as your QQSL.LBL file grows you may
find that there is no longer space to sort on floppy diskette.
I'll leave it up to you, but be VERY careful if sorting on flop-
py! NOTE: If you are using floppy diskette, high density is
required.
This seems an appropriate time for me to give a great big THANK
YOU to Vernon D. Buerg, N6MG for his permission to incorporate
his program SORTF into my QQSL program. Without this, I would
have been forced into writing and debugging my own code to sort
labels, and the resulting sort would have been slower than Vern's
program and probably wouldn't have been able to sort as many
labels! Additionally, QQSL would have been delayed while I
worked on my own Sort menu command. So thanks Vern! And, all
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 31
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
you users please be sure to read the SORTF.DOC which accompanies
QQSL. You'll see that SORTF has many applications beyond sorting
QQSL labels and will be an important addition to your utility
library! And, if you use SORTF, please be sure to register it
with Vern. Details are in the SORTF.DOC file. NOTE: Vern is
probably better known as the author of the great Shareware pro-
gram, LIST!
Quit Program
============
Self-explanatory. Additionally, pressing the <Esc> key or the
right mouse button from the main menu will allow you to end your
QQSL session.
LABEL INFORMATION
=================
Fonts and label paper for laser users is described in the "Print
All Labels" section.
For dot matrix users, QQSL prints on standard 3-1/2" X 15/16", 1-
up labels. There are no plans to later support 2-up or more
labels for dot matrix printers. The first line of the label (the
call sign) is printed using a wide font (5 characters/inch) and
the remaining four lines are printed with a compressed font (17
characters/inch). An Epson compatible dot matrix printer is
assumed, but the IBM ProPrinter (or compatible) may be configured
using the Configuration menu command. I've tested QQSL on both a
Panasonic KXP-1091i and a number of Citizen dot matrix printers,
and it works fine on all. If you're using a non-standard print-
er, give QQSL a try anyway to see what happens. If the labels
come out "bad", check the manual to see if the printer can be
reconfigured to Epson or ProPrinter mode through "dip" switch
settings.
If you have a Near Letter Quality (NLQ) mode on your dot matrix
printer, use it. Although NLQ will slow the printer down, the
labels will look MUCH better!
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 32
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
The following table illustrates how QQSL will format the label's
first line, for both dot matrix and laser users. The format is
determined by the actual length of the call, as you can see:
Letters
in call Format
------- ------
1 - 5 *.*..W6XYZ..*.*
6 - 7 *.*.W6XYZ/4.*.*
8 - 9 *..KL7/W6XYZ..*
10 - 11 *.VP2M/WA6XYZ.*
12 - 15 REAL-LONG-CALL!
Periods (.) represent blanks.
The first label line (shown above), second, third, and first 10
characters of the fourth line are automatically generated by
QQSL. The last 41 characters of the fourth line and all of line
five (51 characters) are preset as shown between the following
lines of asterisks. When a user receives a new version of QQSL,
these lines may be modified with the Modify menu command. Note:
The fifth (bottom) label line can only be modified by licensed
users.
*****************************************************************
- 73, Bill Rig: IC-781, Yagi, PK-232
>>> Label created with QQSL(tm) 5.4 by AA4M/6 <<<
*****************************************************************
THINGS TO COME
==============
The following potential enhancements are listed in order by what
I personally perceive to be (approximately) the most important to
the least important:
- The ability to change or delete individual labels after
entry would be quite useful. Incorporating this capability into
QQSL would essentially require building a text editor into the
program. This would be a nice enhancement, but unfortunately
would also be a BIG programming chore. But then this capability
could also be used to "tag" a label to be deleted, printed to a
label, or held but not printed at this time. This tagging idea
is still "rough" right now, so I'll keep thinking about it. On
this subject, I got a GREAT idea from GW5BLE, which is to give
the user the capability of searching for a specific call before
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 33
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
tagging it. I have no idea right now how difficult adding this
capability to an internal editor might be, but I'll make every
attempt to add this "call search" routine to QQSL at the same
time I incorporate an editor.
Until this edit capability is ready, use the (N)ondocument mode
of your word processing software as described in the "Miscellane-
ous Stuff" section to correct any errors which you may have
inadvertently saved to your QQSL.LBL file or to delete any labels
which you later decide you don't wish to print. NOTE: DO NOT
add, remove, or change any dollar signs ($) in the QQSL.LBL file!
- WA5DTK, KK6XN, KC4B, and others have suggested that I allow
the Modify information on the same screen as the Add/Create Form,
so that they could more easily change lines 4 and 5 for EACH
label, thereby enabling them to write personal comments to QSL
card recipients as needed. This is an interesting idea, and one
which I'll implement soon.
- AB6FO, KF9CX, and V73CT have asked if I would provide the
capability to import ASCII files other than the K1EA and K8CC
contest files. I think a workable (tentative) ASCII import
capability would be in the format:
CALL, DATE, TIME, MHZ, MODE, RS(T), P/T
The following rules will apply to this format:
a. Comma's are required, but spaces are optional.
b. Date in the format YYMMDD.
c. RST is optional, if not included it will be set to 59 or
599 depending on mode.
d. The last field is also optional, and is 'P' for Please
QSL or 'T' for Thanks QSL. "Please" is assumed if not included.
Here's a sample record:
AB6FO, 922708, 2334, 14, SSB, 59, P
- I'd like to add the capability to import files rather than
those created by DXBASE, K1EA, or K8CC. If you have a favorite
logging program on your PC, please get in touch with me and we'll
talk. If I later add a new import log file to QQSL using the
information gathered from you, you'll receive a free upgrade when
the revised program is ready for distribution!
- All label lines are left justified, which looks just fine
with one exception. This is with the first line (call sign) when
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 34
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
configuring for Hewlett Packard Series III (3) printers. This is
because the font being used is a scalable, proportional font.
What this means is that the letters don't use the same amount of
space as they do with fixed modes, particularly when narrow
letters (I) are mixed on the same line as wide letters (W). This
line needs to be centered above the rest of the label information
to look good, but this is much more complex a programming task
then it might appear to the casual user. I'll do what I can with
this one, and thanks to KK6XN for the feedback.
- My chief beta tester, KC4B, has told me that he has five
different ways he configures lines 4 and 5 with the Modify menu
command! He'd like a way to automatically store these lines and
recall them with a keystroke or two. I don't have a good feel at
this time for the difficulty level of this task, but suspect it
won't be an easy one. WB8CKI later requested the same enhance-
ment, so I'll do it - but no promises when <HI!>.
- KC4B suggested that I add a Name field to Add/Create form,
and then incorporate it into the 4th line of the label. For
example, "Please QSL John, . . .". But this is not quite as
clear-cut as it might appear, since: 1) names are different
lengths, 2) the name must be optional, and 3) the user will lose
the use of another portion of line 4, even if he or she doesn't
use the name field! But, it's a good idea and one I think I'll
incorporate into the program as soon as I think of a way of
smoothly integrating the name into the label. On the other hand,
the capability of modifying lines 4 and 5 directly from the same
screen as the Add/Create Form (described above) might satisfy
John's need. Comments?
- K1ER (QSL manager for AH1A, 1993) and K3RV would both like
a more generic label format, as well as the full-featured label
which has been the hallmark of QQSL for many years. Since there
are a LOT of label programs now printing generic labels, I tend
to think that I'd be wasting my time providing this feature. On
the other hand, QSL managers might be more likely to use this
program if I offered such an option. I'll think about it!
- KK6XN suggested that I add the capability to have a label
which contains only comments print immediately after the label
the comments are to accompany. This might be a useful feature
for those with extended comments they wish to enter for their
contacts. Any comments?
- I'd like to be able to enter a single digit in the day or
month field, and then have this digit automatically shift right
and zero-fill the left position when <CR> is pressed. This turns
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 35
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
out to be a lot more of a programming problem than it would first
appear. I'll keep "playing" with this idea.
- N0QMY, KF9CX, and AB6FO have all asked for 3-up laser
labels. This turns out to be much more of a problem than you can
imagine, but I expect I'll implement this change sometime in the
future.
- Provide the capability for more precise laser label align-
ment through the use of a parameter entered with the Configura-
tion menu command. This priority might be higher, but no user
has ever reported an alignment problem with laser labels, whereas
many have told me that the alignment is perfect for their system!
Because of these reasons, this potential enhancement now holds a
very low position in my priority list <HI!>.
- I realize I've left out the satellite and SSTV modes, but I
don't personally use these modes and wasn't sure how valid en-
tries should look. If there are any users who would like to see
these modes included in QQSL, please let me know exactly how
these modes should appear on a QQSL label and I'll make every
effort to add them.
- AB6FO would like to chose between a Sort by date or call.
Since this is the first request for any change of any type to the
sort function and because this would require MAJOR changes to
both the program and to the layout of the QQSL.LBL file, I'm
going to hold off on this one until I determine that others are
interested in a change of this nature. Comments?
- KK6XN would like to see an audit trail of QSL's sent. This
would probably be in the form of a printout containing boiler-
plate QSO information for each QSL sent, the date the labels were
printed, and the date a QSL card was received for the applicable
QSO. This is an interesting idea, and one which I might imple-
ment in the future if others show interest. Comments?
- Having "help screens" pop up at the press of the [F1] key
might be a useful enhancement. On the other hand, I think the
program itself is user-friendly and that programming a help
system might be a waste of my time, while "bloating" the program
at the same time. I'd appreciate any comments on this from those
who would or would not like to see this capability!
- Someday, both as a learning experience and as a significant
enhancement, I'd like to convert QQSL to a "pure" Windows pro-
gram. My intention at that time is to continue maintaining and
distributing the DOS version of QQSL, but additionally including
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 36
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
a Windows version with the DOS version for those who routinely
run in that environment (like me, HI!). Unfortunately, there
aren't enough extra hours in the day for me to do everything I'd
like to do with the DOS version of QQSL, therefore the Windows
version will have to wait until some undetermined future date -
sorry!
Other enhancements/revisions/corrections to QQSL will be released
as necessary.
MISCELLANEOUS STUFF
===================
Much of the following has nothing to do with running QQSL, but I
felt it might be of interest to some users. The topics are
listed in no particular order:
QSL Card Formats
----------------
My personal QSL card wasn't designed with the idea of using QQSL
labels. But, the card was arranged in such a way that the over-
all card looks good when I put a label over the pre-printed QSO
information block. On this subject, some time ago I received a
QSL from KC4B, an old friend of mine back in "4-Land". John
wanted to show me his new QSL card, which had the QSO block on
the front, but he had overlaid the block with a QQSL label, and
it looked great! It seems this card was designed with the idea
that a user might like to either fill out the card himself OR use
a label. John went on to tell me that this QSL was not a custom
design, but one of many styles made with this "dual function" in
mind. This QSL card came from "QSL's by W4MPY" in Monetta, SC.
If this kind of QSL interests you, write for samples to the
address from W4MPY advertisements in the ham publications. While
at it, you might write to a few other QSL printers for samples.
My guess is that we'll be seeing more and more of this kind of
card in the future.
Long Call Signs
---------------
In 1990, I had QSO's with two of the longest calls I have ever
heard on the amateur bands! This first call was VE2EDK/CI0GI, a
Canadian operating from a potential new country and the second
was ZB2/HB9DCQ/P, a Swiss amateur operating portable from Gibral-
tar. QQSL had no problems generating labels for either call,
even though each consisted of twelve characters. If anybody has
ever worked a real-life, valid call (not a hypothetical call)
longer than either of these, I'd be interested in hearing about
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 37
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
it.
Word Processor Problem
----------------------
During a QQSL test session, I decided to make changes to the
QQSL.LBL file using my word processing (WP) software. Of course
I used (N)ondocument mode, as you should if you want to modify
any individual labels with your WP software. If you use the
(D)ocument mode, QQSL will no longer be able to read the QQSL.LBL
file! Anyway, after making changes to only one label, I found
that QQSL would no longer Add to the file. It took a LONG time
for me to figure this one out, but I finally discovered that my
WP software had added some "padding" characters (hex characters
"1A" - I think) to the end of the QQSL.LBL file in order to bring
the total number of characters to a multiple of 128. Why it
needed multiples of 128 for a (N)ondocument file I have no idea.
Anyway, I changed WordStar so that it no longer added these
padding characters and I can now correctly edit the file. The
moral of this story is that you MUST BE SURE to make a backup
copy of your QQSL.LBL file before making any changes with your WP
software, at least until you are confident that your label file
won't be "clobbered" by your WP! For those interested, my WP
software package at that time was WordStar, version 5.5. If
you're using this software and can't figure out how to eliminate
the padding characters, get in touch with me and I'll be glad to
help. Reminder: DO NOT add or remove any dollar signs ($) in
the QQSL.LBL file!
Double Printing
---------------
I experimented with double-printing the first line on dot matrix
labels in order to emphasize the call sign. But, I discovered
that various "Epson compatible" printers handled this part of the
program differently - what worked on one was ignored by the
other. After spending an inordinate amount of time on this
potential enhancement, I decided to abandon it rather than re-
lease a program which might not work in a particular user's
environment. This was unfortunate, because when it worked, it
looked good!
Short History
-------------
Version 1.0 of QQSL was originally released as free (but copy-
righted) software. I even included the source code for those of
you that might wish to "tinker" with the program. That version
of QQSL represented about 400 lines of source. Version 2.0 grew
to 1,000 lines of source and the latest version is nearly 5,000!
This program has taken me MUCH more effort than I had originally
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 38
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
planned - those of you who are programmers know what I mean.
Because of this effort, starting with version 2.0, I withheld the
source code and made the program Shareware. With version 3.0, I
imposed a 3-label limit for non-licensed users. Version 4.1 saw
the elimination of the 3-label limit and the introduction of Demo
Reminder, and version 5.0 included an advertisement on the bottom
label line which was only modifiable by licensed users. Version
5.0 also saw QQSL leave the ranks of Shareware and become a
commercial program, complete with [very expensive!] advertising
in the major ham radio publications. Version 5.1 saw the rein-
troduction of the 3-label limit for non-licensed users and the
elimination of the "pop up" Demo Reminder.
Label Prices
------------
A box of 5,000 3-1/2" X 15/16", continuous-form 1-up labels
retails for about $10.00 at many retail outlets. Two national
stores that have these prices are the Price Club and CompUSA, and
I'm sure that a little "shopping around" would locate other
sources. Additionally, it appears that the prices for blank
labels is slowly decreasing, a trend which I'd like to see con-
tinue. You can see that QSL labels produced with your dot matrix
printer and QQSL can be quite reasonable, since 5,000 labels will
last you a long, long time <HI!>.
Monitor Information
-------------------
With Version 3.0, I've introduced color to the program. For
those still using a monochrome monitor, I've built a routine into
the program to automatically detect such monitors and interpret
the display into flat, uninteresting monochrome. But, I've only
done limited testing in this manner, mostly by simulating mono-
chrome on my color monitor (this IS a valid way to test mono-
chrome). Additionally, the cOnfiguration menu command allows the
user to configure specifically for a monochrome monitor, which
should provide improved monochrome capability compared to the
automatic detection routine, especially on a laptop computer!
But, if you're using a monochrome-only system, you're missing out
on a LOT as QQSL looks GOOD in color, so now you have the excuse
to go purchase that color monitor you've had your eye on <HI!>.
On this subject, should you decide to upgrade to color, don't
select CGA, since its low resolution text is worse than mono-
chrome! Additionally, with some CGA monitors and older mono-
chrome monitors, you may see "snow" when running this program.
I've written QQSL in such a manner that it will automatically
detect and eliminate snow as needed, but I'm not sure that this
will work in all cases. But, with the disappearance of CGA
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 39
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
monitors as the standard some time ago (1987?) and the prolifera-
tion of EGA/VGA systems at reasonable prices, I doubt that anyone
will mind <HI!>. So, if you're about to upgrade either your
monitor and video card (or your entire system), my recommendation
is that you settle for NO LESS than an EGA monitor with matching
video card, and that you go for VGA or better if you have the
money!
Upgrading to Laser
------------------
If you decide to upgrade your dot matrix printer to a laser
printer, or just to a better dot matrix, my advice would be to
keep the old printer rather then selling it or giving it to the
kids! You could then connect both the old and new printers to
the printer port by using a surge-protected, parallel "A/B
switch" and then leave continuous-form labels in the older print-
er at all times. This way, you would be relieved of the hassle
of reloading the printer with continuous-form label paper each
time you wanted to run off a batch of QQSL labels. Additionally,
small batches of labels (as few as one) won't be daunting, since
you'll no longer have to load/unload the printer! I've taken my
own advice and am now printing small runs of QQSL labels on my
old 9-pin dot matrix printer, while using my LaserJet IIIP for
the larger runs and for all other print tasks.
Backup Practices
----------------
This paragraph has nothing to do with QQSL, but is important
enough that I felt I should include it. It is EXTREMELY IMPOR-
TANT that you backup your data! If you know this and already
have a suitable backup schedule in place, skip the rest of this
paragraph. But, if you're not in the habit of backing up your
data on a routine basis, you're going to get stung some day, BAD!
If you have a floppy-only system, backing up is as simple as
using the DOS DISKCOPY command. For those using a hard disk, the
least efficient but simplest way is to backup files is with the
DOS COPY command. Next is through the use of the DOS BACKUP and
RESTORE commands. At my office, I personally use and recommend
Central Point's CP Backup (any version but 7.0 - bugs!), written
by the same folks who produced PC Tools. If you find that you
have a LOT of data on a BIG hard disk and that the act of physi-
cally swapping floppy diskettes is forcing you to attend backup
sessions of 20 minutes or more, you're a candidate for a tape
backup! I normally do backups with a tape backup system, and can
honestly say that I'd never again backup more than 20 MB or so to
floppy diskettes. Tape is definitely the way to go if you have a
large hard disk! In closing, please note that I've lost the
entire contents of my hard disk SIX times over the last few
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 40
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
years, but never lost more than an hour or two of work thanks to
good backup practices!
VENDOR INFORMATION
==================
Vendors of public domain, Shareware, and/or commercial demonstra-
tion programs have my permission to distribute QQSL, with these
caveats:
1. It is clearly stated that you are distributing a demon-
stration copy of a commercial program. This statement can be in
the form of a file on the floppy diskette distributed with QQSL,
or it may be a printed document.
2. No more than a reasonable fee for the distribution media
and personal overhead is charged (you're being paid for collec-
tion and distribution of software only, not authorship).
3. All files described in the README.NOW file are distribut-
ed with QQSL.
DISCLAIMER
==========
The author assumes no responsibility for direct or consequential
damages resulting from the use of QQSL, either to your software,
hardware, storage media, or collected data. While I've made
every effort to ensure that this software works properly, I
know better than to claim that you'll never experience problems
while using it. Users of QQSL must accept this disclaimer of
warranty: QQSL is supplied as is. The author disclaims all
warranties, expressed or implied, including, without limitation,
the warranties of merchantability and of fitness for any purpose.
LICENSING INFORMATION
=====================
QQSL is a commercial program, but a demonstration copy is provid-
ed at no charge to the user for a trial period of one-month.
Feel free to share this copy with your friends, but you may not
give it away altered or as part of another system. If you find
this program useful and that you are continuing to use QQSL after
the one-month trial period, please send license payment to the
author as defined in the ORDER.FRM file. This fee will license
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 41
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
one copy for use on any one computer at any one time. In other
words, you must treat this software just like a book. An example
is that this software may be used by any number of people and may
be freely moved from one computer location to another, so long as
there is no possibility of it being used at one location while
it's being used at another. Just as a book cannot be read by two
different persons at the same time.
NOTE: Your acceptance of the limitations of the demo copy is NOT
an excuse to avoid licensing - send payment to the author if you
continue to use QQSL beyond the one-month trial period!
Prior to licensing, you'll find that:
1. The Print menu command will not print out more than three
labels!
2. The bottom line on each label now shows an advertisement
for QQSL. Licensed users may change this line to anything they
wish, but non-licensed users are stuck with it - as is!
3. The words "Demonstration copy: 3-label limit!" on the
title page will continually blink on and off.
4. The program starts and ends with a "Demo Reminder".
Other than these "features", the demonstration program is fully
functional and exactly like the licensed version. For those of
you that do not like the inconvenience of the demo limitations
but otherwise like the program, it's time to put your check in
the mail!
The QQSL license is issued for life, meaning that all future
upgrades will be covered by this single fee! With your license,
you'll receive a personal serial number which may be used with
the cOnfiguration menu command (described earlier) to install the
serial number into your copy of QQSL. Following successful
serial number installation, all limitations of the demonstration
version will be removed. This serial number will work with all
future versions of QQSL, so no more license fees will be required
from paid users!
All newly-licensed users will receive a copy of the latest ver-
sion of QQSL, normally mailed within 24-hours of receipt of your
payment. The exception to this rule is when a new version of
QQSL is imminent. In this situation, I'll delay mailing of your
program no more than seven days.
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 42
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
REMINDER: With the exception of the 3-label limit, bottom line
advertisement, blinking words on the title page, and the Demo
Reminder, the demonstration and licensed copies of QQSL are
identical!
ORDER INFORMATION
=================
The full order form, complete with pricing information, is
contained in the file ORDER.FRM.
UPGRADES
========
All licensed users are entitled to free lifetime upgrades to the
latest version of QQSL. It can be downloaded from Compuserve's
HAMNET Forum, LIB 6 (Programs). A search for (KEY)word "QQSL"
will find the program, for example: BRO/DES/KEY:QQSL. Addition-
ally, many of the ham radio oriented BBS's across the country
will have copies of QQSL available for downloading.
If you wish, you can get the latest upgrade directly from me.
Full upgrade order information is contained in the file
ORDER.FRM. Direct order upgrades will normally be in the mail
within 24 hours of receipt. The only exception to this rule is
if I'm close to having a new version ready for distribution, in
which case I'll wait for no more than one week to ensure that you
get the latest version of QQSL.
BUGS
====
1. If you're using a LaserJet series II laser printer, the
following problem may affect you: I've tested the laser capabil-
ity on both my LaserJet IIIP at home and a LaserJet II at the
office. Although there are no problems with the home system, the
series II printer at the office puts out a blank page for each
page of labels. I don't know if this situation is unique to this
single printer at the office or if all series II printers will
have similar problems. Additionally, I neither have a series II
"Technical Reference Manual", nor do I have easy access to this
machine. Therefore, this won't be an easy problem to analyze.
But I don't think this is a serious problem, as the blank sheets
can be reused. NOTE: Do not reuse label paper if you have
removed as few as one label from the page. This could cause
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 43
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
serious jamming and possibly permanent damage to your laser
printer, as discussed earlier in this document. Check the index
for "Print All Labels" for the applicable page number.
2. I have two users who have reported display problems with
the Toshiba T1200XE laptop computer. Since I don't own one of
these units and don't know any locals who might loan me one to
use during debugging, this bug will have to go "unsquashed" for
now.
There are no other known bugs in QQSL at this time. But you can
be assured that I'll "stomp" the little insects as fast as I find
them!
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
=================
If you believe you've found a bug, please report it in as much
detail as possible, including a reproducible sequence of events
that leads to the problem, a complete description of your hard-
ware, DOS version used, amount of free memory reported by
CHKDSK, and a copies of your CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT files.
If the bug occurred with imported K1EA or K8CC files, I'll need a
floppy with copies of BOTH the contest program you were using
at the time and the applicable file with which you had your
problem. If the bug occurred when you were importing other than
K1EA/K8CC files, I need copies of these files also.
For questions, comments, bug reports, etc., write to:
Bill Mullin - AA4M/6
3042 Larkin Place
San Diego, CA 92123-3026
U.S.A.
I can also be reached via EZ-Plex on Compuserve. My user-id is
[72220,2707]. NOTE: If you wish to contact me via Compuserve,
please DO NOT leave mail in the HAMNET Forum. I seldom check
HAMNET Forum mail, as I've discovered this practice becomes
habit-forming and TERRIBLE things happen to my monthly bill
<HI!>. You may also contact me by sending E-mail to user BILL
MULLIN in the HAM Conference on RelayNet (RIME) or the Ham Con-
ference on FIDO. Additionally, I can be reached via E-mail to
user BILL MULLIN on the RadioSport BBS in San Diego, (619) 279-
3921 (US Robotics HST). NOTE: If you contact me via any of the
E-mail routes and are a licensed user, please let me know the
LAST six digits of your serial number only! DO NOT put the
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 44
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
entire ten-digit serial number on any public mail system!
You may also call me at my home (619) 292-7227, but please be
aware that if you get my telephone answering machine, I won't
call you back. My intention is not to be rude, it's just that
the licensing fee isn't sufficient to cover long distance phone
calls. TIP: My telephone recorder answers on the fourth ring
the first call and on the first ring for each additional call.
Normally, you can hang up after the third ring and not get caught
by the machine!
Please include your personal serial number with all correspond-
ence. REMINDER: I'd like all ten digits of your serial number
if you're contacting me via some private means, but I only want
the last six digits if you're using public E-mail!
FINAL WORDS
===========
These days anyone with a PC, a modem, a decent graphic word
processor, and a LaserJet printer can look like a big operation.
In my case though, nothing could be farther from the truth! I
operate out of my house, do everything myself, and intend to keep
on doing business this way. I have no desire to build a big
organization nor to get rich - rather I just want to make enough
money to buy some of the latest radio and computer toys, and give
myself time to play with them. This unorthodox attitude gets me
into trouble now and then, since a few people seem to expect a
lot more than I'm prepared to deliver. But, most of you under-
stand and it's a pleasure doing business with you!
I hope QQSL fills a need in your ham/computer shack and that you
have as much fun using it as I do! For now though . . .
73 es gud QQSLing de Bill - AA4M/6
P.S. See you in the pileups!
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 45
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
Section/Subsection Index
About QQSL, 9
ABOUT THE DEMONSTRATION COPY, 5
ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT, 2
Align Printer, 23
AUTHOR, 1
Backup Practices, 40
BUGS, 43
Call Sign, 11
Color, 27
Configure QQSL, 25
Count labels, 16
Create Label File (or) Add New Labels, 10
Day, 14
Delete QQSL.LBL, 17
DISCLAIMER, 41
Double Printing, 38
DXBASE, 18
FINAL WORDS, 45
GETTING STARTED, 7
Import Instructions, 21
Import log file, 17
INTRODUCTION, 3
K1EA, 18
K8CC, 21
LABEL INFORMATION, 32
Label Prices, 39
LEARNING QQSL, 7
LICENSING INFORMATION, 41
Long Call Signs, 37
LPT Port, 27
MENUS, 8
MHz, 12
MISCELLANEOUS STUFF, 37
Mode (A/C/F/P/R/S), 13
Modify lines 4/5, 23
Monitor Information, 39
Month, 14
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 46
QQSL(tm), Version 5.4 February 25, 1993
Section/Subsection Index
Month Format, 26
ORDER INFORMATION, 43
Print All Labels, 29
PRINTED MANUAL, 4
Printer, 27
QQSL Wallpaper, 28
QQSLCD, 3
QSL Card Formats, 37
QSL (P/T), 15
QUICK START, 1
Quit Program, 32
RS(T), 14
Serial Number, 26
Short History, 38
Slash Zero, 26
Sort Labels, 30
Sound, 26
SWL (Y/N), 15
TECHNICAL SUPPORT, 44
THINGS TO COME, 33
Time (UTC), 14
UPGRADES, 43
Upgrading to Laser, 40
VENDOR INFORMATION, 41
WHY DID I WRITE QQSL?, 5
Word Processor Problem, 38
Year, 14
<Esc>, 15, 24, 28
[F2], 24, 28
[F6], 15, 24, 28
QQSL(tm) - Quick QSL Labels by AA4M/6 Page 47