Ham Radio Deluxe Video Newsletter | 13-October 2023 | Transcribed from YouTube

This blog post is transcribed from the YouTube video found here.

Introduction:

Hello, ham radio enthusiasts! Lindy (KB9PIE) and Mike (WA9PIE) here, bringing you an exciting update on Ham Radio Deluxe. We understand you've been eagerly awaiting news about the next release, and we're here to provide some insights into what's been happening behind the scenes.

The Elephant in the Room:

Let's address the big question many of you have been asking: "When is the new release coming out?" We get it; you've been waiting, and we promised updates. To be completely transparent, we're just as frustrated as you are that the release is taking longer than expected. However, we want you to know that there are valid reasons for this delay, and it's all in the pursuit of making Ham Radio Deluxe better.

The Rebuilding Process:

We're currently working on the 6.9 release, and it's no small feat. Originally, the plan was to replace Microsoft Access with SQLite, but as we delved into it, we realized we couldn't build on an aging foundation. So, we made a significant decision to completely rebuild Logbook, setting the stage for a faster, better, and more versatile application. This new codebase will not only support Windows but also Mac and Linux, fulfilling a long-awaited request.

Investing in Improvement:

To give you an idea of the magnitude of this project, we've allocated three full-time developers. Overall, we're paying for over 6,000 hours of development for the v6.9 release. The financial investment in this overhaul is substantial, and we're committed to delivering an exceptional product.

What's Coming in Version 6.9 (a video demonstration is in the YouTube video):

While we're still in the development phase, we want to share some exciting features that you can expect in the 6.9 release. This includes support for popular activities like Parks on the Air (POTA), Summits on the Air (SOTA), and Worldwide Flora and Fauna. Additionally, we're introducing a DX histogram to help you pinpoint activity on various bands and modes.

Improved QSL Management:

We're streamlining QSL management by consolidating all QSL activity into one tab. No more bouncing between different tabs for eQSL and LoTW. This will make your QSL workflow more efficient.

Enhanced Support for POTA, SOTA, and WWFF:

For enthusiasts of Parks on the Air, Summits on the Air, and Worldwide Flora and Fauna, we're introducing comprehensive support. You can quickly access information about the park, grid location, and more, making it easier to participate in these exciting activities.

Dark Mode:

We're also introducing a dark mode for those who prefer a different look for their Logbook. Easily switch between light and dark themes to suit your preference.

What's Next:

Beyond the 6.9 release, we have an exciting roadmap ahead. Version 6.10 will focus on rewriting Rig Control, Version 6.11 will focus on rewriting DM780 (Digital Master), and Version 6.12 will likely combine releases for rotor control and satellite tracking. We're also working towards multilingual support, contesting features, and much more.

All of these changes are intended to result in a Version 7 that will run on Windows, Mac, or Linux and offer multi-lingual support.

While we can't provide an exact timeline for these releases, rest assured, we're working diligently to make Ham Radio Deluxe the best it can be.

Closing Thoughts:

We want to thank you for your patience and support. We understand the anticipation, and we're as eager as you are to deliver these improvements. Ham Radio Deluxe is on its way to becoming even more powerful and versatile, and we can't wait to share it with you. Stay tuned for updates, and remember, we're here to answer your questions and listen to your feedback.

Until next time, happy ham radio operating!