WorkedFields
 Ham Log Mapping software
Freeware  for Windows
Par/by: Bertrand Zauhar, VE2ZAZ 

DESCRIPTION

WorkedFields is a Windows application that displays a map showing the amateur radio field squares contacted and logged in using a third-party logging program. WorkedFields uses colors to display information on a per-band basis. Up to four bands can be displayed concurrently.

This project was initiated following a request from a WorkedGrids user who thought a field square mapping software similar to WorkedGrids would be useful. Examination of the programming code convinced me that it would be possible to create a field mapping software based on WorkedGrids with relatively few changes.

The software is directed towards the HF operators who collect field squares for contesting or award purpose. For that purpose, WorkedFields also calculates the number of field square worked for each band. It is designed to supplement a logging program and it replaces the pen and paper drawing technique.

For its input, the program reads the plain-text (ASCII) log files generated by most logging programs. The file is read at a set interval and the worked field squares on the map are updated in a dynamic way as the contest progresses and the log file is periodically saved.

A world map is implemented so any area of the world or the entire world can be displayed. A zoom-in feature provides a closer look at at a specific area. Support for printing and copying to clipboard is also provided. Note: The picture to the right shows an example of a 420 x 440 pixels window with just a few QSO's.

Examination of the log file with a plain text editor may be necessary depending on the log file format selected. This allows to identify the type of log file format used by your logging software. WorkedFields supports 4 types of plain text log book file:
  • Fixed-width fields text file: This file presents the amateur radio band and grid square information in a constant position (column-like) for each log entry. For example, the band (14, 20m, 160) strings could be position starting in position (column) 1 and the grid squares starting in position 58. One line represents one log entry. Another example is:
20M    VE2ZAZ     FN36 .....
160    VE0MAT     FO44bk .....
14     W3CA       EN32 .....
  • Character-delimited text file: This log file has all of its log entry fields separated by a single character, for example a comma (,) sign. The band and grid square fields for each log entry will always show up in the same spot. For example, the band string may be located in the third field and the grid square in the sixth field. One line represents one log entry. An example is:
20M,59,VE2ZAZ,FN36, .....
160,599,VE0MAT,FO44bk, .....
14,559,W3CAZ,EN32, .....
  • ADIF import/export format: This is a text file format generated by most logging programs to import/export the log data. This is usually not the native file format of the logging program, but a standard format so that the data can be easily transferred from one program to another. A log entry can be spread over more than one line. An example is:
<QSO_DATE:8>20080119 <TIME_ON:4>1906 <CALL:6>VE3CVG <BAND:3>20M   
<MODE:3>USB <RST_SENT:1>0 <GRIDSQUARE:4>fn25 <EOR>
  • Cabrillo format (VHF contests template): This is a text file format generated by several logging programs to import/export the log data into the ARRL Logbook Of The World. This is usually not the native file format of the logging program. One line represents one log entry. An example is (some space characters were removed to fit in this help page width):

    QSO:   20M PH 2007-08-04 1803 VE2ZAZ       FN25   WA3PTV      FM08
    QSO:   14  PH 2007-08-04 1804 VE2ZAZ       FN25   W3SZ        FN20
    QSO:   1.8 PH 2007-08-04 1806 VE2ZAZ       FN25   VE3ZX       FN20
All settings (text file, path, type of log file, colors, fields, window map window position, etc) are saved to the hard drive directory upon program exit.  These settings are restored at program launch.

This program uses a non-invasive installation; it does not install DLLs. All files are installed within the same directory.
REQUIREMENTS

Operating System: Any 32-bit version of Windows from Windows 95 to Windows Vista. Most likely 64-bit versions of XP and Vista as well, but untested so far.
Minimum CPU Hardware: Pentium-Class CPU, preferably Pentium-II or faster for quicker map refresh.
Display: 640x480 or higher resolution, 256 colors or more.
Disk usage: 1MB
Typical RAM usage: < 10MB, varies as a function of Map window size.
RELEASE HISTORY

ATTENTION: AVG Antivirus may detect a Trojan issue with the WorkedFields install file. This has got to be a false alarm. Referring to the web, it appears that the latest virus definition of AVG is causing pain on more than just my program... See this link for more details.  Just to be on the safe side, I also installed it on my work PC that runs Symmantec Antivirus (Corporate) and nothing is reported. My Avira Antivir here does not complain either... I am a former AVG user but got rid of it a long time ago because of too many false alarms. Enjoy this clean program :-)

Current Version

 v1 (October 2009): Initial Release.

DOWNLOAD


WorkedFields v1_Install.exe
This software is freeware. But if you would like to support me for past or future development, your contribution is welcome! Just click on the PayPal logo. Thanks!