N1MM part 1

N1MM Contest Logging Programme - part 1

There is no doubt in my mind that if you are interested in Contests, even in a small way, then computer logging is a skill that needs to be seriously considered. Having entered a couple of RSGB UKAC contests using paper logs and then transcribing to the Contest web site I found that it was a laborious process that is prone to copying errors.

In SDARS our VHF contesters are very keen and active. The logging software that most of us use for VHF and up is Minos because it is recommended by the RSGB, provides an entry in the required format and because a lot of Club members use it, help and assistance is always at hand.

Minos is however primarily for VHF use, when it comes to HF I have decided to settle on using N1MM logging software. The reasons for this are;

1. It's free. I am not a fanatical Contester so spending money on something that gets infrequent use is just not viable.
2. It is quite similar to Minos in use so the learning curve is not too steep.
3. It provides an entry in Cabrillo format, required for many HF Contest entries.

Having said that it is similar to Minos to use only scratches the surface though. N1MM is an extremely complex and complicated programme when you look at it in more detail. Whereas Minos is purely logging software, N1MM also incorporates so many extra functions including rig and rotator control that you would need to be a dedicated contester to master it completely. I will not even try and cover N1MM in depth here but will try to explain how I use the basic functions within it.

To install N1MM is a two step process, firstly you need to download and install the core programme called Full install. This can be downloaded here; http://n1mm.hamdocs.com/tiki-list_file_gallery.php?galleryId=7 . Once that is done you download the latest updates and install those on top of the main programme. http://n1mm.hamdocs.com/tiki-list_file_gallery.php?galleryId=15

It is important to install the updates immediately after the first full install but after that it is only necessary once every now and then. Installation is straight forward and should go smoothly. Only the latest update has to be installed so ignore the others.

If you start N1MM without connecting your rig to the computer with a CAT cable you will receive an error opening port message when opening the software. Don't Panic – To use the basic logging programme you do not need to be connected to the radio. You will probably find the default band selected is 20 meters. To change this simply type in the “call sign” entry box “3.5” and hit enter for 80 meters. If the mode is not correct just type in “CW” or “PHONE” and hit enter again.

The first task is to select the correct Contest Format. Take your time on this as it was where I made several errors the first time I used the programme and mistakes are difficult to remedy later.

From the top menus select “File” then “New log in Database”.

This brings up a set up box. The first item is “Log Type”. There are loads of contests to select from and getting the correct one is very important. For the RSGB UK CC contest scroll down until you get to “RSGB80MCC”.

Some are not as obvious, the Cub Sprint is “EUSCW” so look at the rules on the actual contest web site and you might find the format to select there.

Selecting the correct Contest format is important as it opens up the correct information entry boxes in the main window that each specific Contest requires.

The rest of the set up window is more straight forward and contains a lot of your station information in much the same way as Minos except with an HF slant.

You are now pretty much ready to start a Contest using N1MM as a simple logging aid. As in Minos you enter Call sign being worked then Tab across to the next field until all of the required field are filled in and then hit Enter.

Many VHF contesters are amused to find that the Report defaults to 599 in HF Contests. At least in N1MM you can enter a different RST but I'll save my thoughts on that topic for another missive!

At the end of the Contest when it comes time to produce your entry, check with the Contest rules to make sure you know what format is required. Most of my Contest activity is for RSGB Contests and they require a Cabrillo file. To produce one Simply go to “File” menu and select “Generate Cabrillo File”. Make sure you know where you saved it too as this is what you send to the RSGB.

Essentially much of this simple utilisation of N1MM is very similar in operation to Minos. The fun starts when you connect your Radio to the computer and delve a bit deeper into the software's capabilities.

When you connect your radio to the computer using a CAT cable or interface then N1MM becomes very interesting indeed. The software will then track your operating frequency and mode automatically. If you connect a WinKey or similar keying device, you can send CW from the computer keyboard or from Macros within N1MM. However this is where most of the problems start to surface. Interfacing your computer, radio and software so that they all “talk” to each other is not always easy especially if you already use certain ports on the computer while using other software like Ham Radio Deluxe. If using more than one programme at a time always open up N1MM first and always turn your radio on and select VFO A, the correct band and mode before starting N1MM.