Looking for a user-friendly, take it along ham radio logging app? Try HAMRS. While it may not be the best of all ham radio logging apps, it gets the job done during field operations like Parks and Summits on the Air.

A Basic Introduction to HAMRS from the N7LGN Radio Club 4/2021

Introduction:

HAMRS is the brainwork of Jarrett Green KC0ICT. HAMRS undergoes a constant state of improvement and enhancement. At the time of this updated post, HAMRS is currently at version 1.0.6. HAMRS was designed with smartphones and other platforms in mind. The “desktop” versions are free while the IOS and Android downloads are currently $4.99.

HAMRS includes an active community of ham radio operators who help each other with questions and provides a platform for enhancement requests. Using HAMRS and contributing to the community forum is a great way to help other hams that are new to HAMRS. 

Features:

Jarrett Green designed HAMRS with multiple platforms in mind. The HAMRS app covers Windows, MAC, UBUNTU, Raspian, and even a 32 bit version for older systems. In addition, HAMRS runs on the iPhone, iPad and Android devices. 

HAMRS rolls four different logging templates into one app: Generic logger, Parks on the Air, Summits on the Air, Field Day and Winter Field Day. Each log is kept in a separate file and log exports result in files using the ADIF format. 

At the time of this post, HAMRS does not include centralized logging for events like field day, but with a bit of ingenuity the ADIF output from multiple stations might be combined for log submission.

Version 1.0.6 Enhancements:
Added virtual number keyboard for mobile devices for callsign input
ESC now clear current form
Logged POTA Spots can now be hidden
QRT POTA Spots can now be hidden
Condensed POTA Spots Toolbar
Added ‘Call not found’ pop-up

Version 1.0.6 Bug Fixes:

Logbook form auto-focuses to Title input
Allow decimals and values lower than 1 in TX_PWR field

KE2YK’s Notes:

My experience with HAMRS is related to logging for Parks on the Air and Winter Field Day. Instead of logging to paper, I just log each contact directly into HAMRS during my POTA activations. If I happen to be in an area with LTE or 5G coverage, then details of each contact are automatically logged as well. In the settings section of the app, you can choose a subscribed (QRZ) or free (HAMDB) callsign lookup service.

Once I return home from my Parks on the Air activation I transfer my completed log from my smartphone to the PC and run the exported ADIF file through ADIF Master (PC version only) to double check my log for errors and omissions before uploading it to the Parks on the Air site. 

FAQ:

  1. What is HAMRS, and what does it do? HAMRS is an amateur radio logging app that simplifies the logging process for amateur radio operators. It offers features such as automatic logging of contact details when online, QSO Map and ADIF export.
  2. Is HAMRS available for free, or does it require a subscription? HAMRS is available for free on Windows, macOS, and Linux platforms. There is a $4.99 fee for smartphone use.
  3. Can HAMRS, be used offline, or does it require an internet connection? HAMRS can be used offline, but it requires an internet connection for automatic lookups to QRZ (subscription) or HAMDB (free).
  4. How does HAMRS, integrate with the ARRL’s Logbook of the World (LoTW)? HAMRS does not integrate with LOTW. HAMRS only provides log exports in ADIF format.
  5. What kind of backup and restore options does HAMRS offer? HAMRS does not provide for backup or restore operations. HAMRS only stores your log files on your device or computer. 
  6. Can HAMRS export logs in formats other than ADIF? Currently, HAMRS only supports exporting logs in ADIF format.
  7. What platforms is HAMRS available on (e.g., Windows, macOS, iOS, Android)? HAMRS is currently available for Windows, macOS, and Linux platforms and smartphones.
  8. Does HAMRS, support integration with other logging programs? HAMRS currently does not support integration with other logging programs.
  9. How can I get support if I encounter issues with HAMRS? You can visit the HAMRS website for support or join the free HAMRS community.
  10. What kind of security measures does HAMRS have in place to protect my data? HAMRS stores your data locally on your device and does not transmit any information to external servers.