Introduction
This is BI1ULP, a newly minted Ham radio operator who just started in July 2024. Every day, I explore the online world, searching for and learning about various aspects of radio communication. I read articles and watch videos from experienced operators, but most of their content is based on their own extensive knowledge and experience. This means that it may not always be suitable for beginners like me. For example, even after reading several introductory books, I still need days to understand what the experts are trying to convey – whether they are simply showing off their knowledge or genuinely wanting others to learn.
1. What is LoTW, and why should I apply for it?
LoTW: LOGBOOK of THE WORLD, which translates to "World Wide Radio Log," LoTW is a platform where you record the first letter of each word. Be careful with capitalization! It's an online radio log platform launched by the American Association of Amateur Radio in 2003, open to enthusiasts worldwide. The logs recorded on this platform can be used for applying for DXCC awards (which prove how many DXCC stations you've contacted, satisfying your ego and sense of accomplishment). I'll explain what DXCC is in more detail later, but let's move on. How do you upload your log? Do you need some software? Come here...
II. LoTW Registration and Application
1、Download a software called TQSL, which is very safe to download. Open the following and click on "here" as indicated in the image below: Address:https://lotw.arrl.org/lotw-help/installation
The software is approximately 9 MB in size.
2. Run the downloaded software installation program.
Check the agreement box and click "Next".
Specify the installation location and optionally check "Create desktop shortcut" and "Create Start menu shortcut".
Click "Start Installation" (If a prompt appears asking if you agree to install, click "Agree")
Once installed and with an icon created on your desktop, this program will look like this!
III. Applying for a LoTW Certificate
When you first start it up, you will be prompted to apply for a call sign certificate. Click "Yes". If this is not your first time starting it up, you don't need to read my tutorial!
Please enter your correct call sign information in the following format, and click Next (red indicates required fields);
Please enter your QTH information in the following format and click Next (red indicates required fields):
Enter the email address where you would like to receive the certificate, and click "Submit".
Click "Yes" in the pop-up dialog box and wait for the progress bar of the certificate application upload to complete.
Click on the call sign certificate to see if there's an option for the current call sign, and also to view the clock pattern in the red circle in the image.
Okay, you have now completed uploading the information for your call sign certificate application. The next step is to manually send an email to.LoTW-help@arrl.orgVerify the information.
IV. Information Verification
Write an email to send toLoTW-help@arrl.org
Title: Chinese operator applying for a new callsign certification
The attachments below are three images: a driver's license (front), an operating permit, and a license.
The content is as follows: Dear Sir,
Please assist me in applying for a new certificate for my call sign HI1ULP. The required documents are attached. Thank you.
Once the request is submitted, if it's a weekday, you will receive an email with the reply on the same day, containing your account and password, as well as a certificate (with the extension .tq.6).
5. Importing the call sign certificate
Open the software and navigate to the call sign certificate interface. Select the call sign, import a call sign certificate, and you will see that the icon next to the call sign changes from a small alarm clock to the award-like image shown below, which completes the activation process.
You have now successfully activated your callsign within the TQSL software and registered it on the LoTW network log.
Below, I will provide a detailed explanation of how to use the software, along with information about important certificates such as tq.5, q.6, q.7, q.8, p.12, and bk. This will be updated soon, so please stay tuned!
Wishing you a wonderful day! - BI1ULP
VY 73!
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