Introduction:
You don't necessarily need to understand this right away; but for those who enjoy learning, it can be a great opportunity to delve deeper! When I first encountered LoTW in late August, I spent several days studying online posts, and although I eventually registered successfully (just like my first post), I didn't understand what the .tq6 and .p12 signals were. This post is mainly about sharing information about .adi..adif.tq5.tq6.tq7.tq8.p12 tb These eight file extensions are what they are. Since you should already know about them when using the TQSL software, and you might need them in the future! I spent three to four days searching for articles both domestically and internationally, but I couldn't find any similar explanations. Therefore, I am publishing this article with the hope that you can understand it in just three minutes. After all, sharing knowledge is like returning a rose – it brings fragrance to both parties! As for me, my common sense is lacking, and my expression is shallow. If you are professionals, please don't criticize me. Also, I would appreciate any corrections or guidance you could offer!
First, everyone should know how to upload the communication information to the LoTW website after establishing a connection. In fact, you can use the TQSL software to do this (which is my preferred method). Here's a simple explanation of how to use the TQSL software:
Example (Beijing 438.450 repeater):
BI1ULP: Hello, this is BI1ULP. Can other stations on the same frequency copy our transmissions?
BI2ULP: This is BI2ULP, receiving your signal 59. What is your QTH? ... and so on. I won't waste any more time.
After completing the connection, open the TQSL software and click "Create an ADIF file for signature and upload," then enter all the information you just connected to: as shown in the following figure.
After clicking "Confirm," choose a storage location and rename the file. My usual naming convention is as follows (please note):Does the .adi file exist?
This isThe .adi and *.adif files are local files generated from the communication logs you saved. Please understand!
1. What is a *.tq5 file? Certificate Request File
You shouldn't see this file, but it actually exists: it's the Certificate Request file. The progress bar you saw in my first article, under "LoTW Certificate Application," where you uploaded your call sign, QSO date, name, address, city, province, postal code, country, email, etc., was used to package all that information into a .tq5 file and upload it to the LoTW company's servers for review.
2. The *.tq6 file is a "Signature Certificate".
Do you remember when I mentioned in my first article, under item "Information Confirmation," that you received?LoTW-help@arrl.orgThe attachment in the email is the .tq6 certificate, which is very important! The .tq6 file was created by LoTW to respond to your uploaded .tq5 file, and you need to load it into the TQSL software. As mentioned in the first article – item 5, "Importing a callsign certificate," as shown below:
3. What is a ".tq7" file? "Uncompressed Signature Log"
I couldn't find any related information, but I understand that it refers to the `.tq7` file generated when you click "Sign a log and automatically upload to LoTW" in the TQSL software. This file is similar to the `.tq5` file, but you won't be able to see it directly; however, it actually exists and has been uploaded!
4. What is a *.tq8 file? The "Compressed Signature Log" is coming up!
Click "Sign a log and save it to the following" in the TQSL software, then see the following image for how to generate the .tq8 file:
After clicking to open it, save the .tq8 file as shown in the image. As you can see, the .tq8 file has appeared.
When uploading logs to the official website, the website only accepts .tq8 files. Think about why this might be the case.
In simple terms: .tq8 encrypts your Logbook-of-Constellations (Logbook) and generates a Logbook file using the TQSL software on your local computer (a computer with a valid certificate). You can then upload this file to LoTW's website from any other computer, even one without a certificate.
Five. What is a *.p12 file? This file contains the "key" and "U-shield", which can be used to recover after changing computers, upgrading TQSL, or losing the .tq6 certificate.
6. What is a *.tbk file? "Backup File"
I was unable to capture a screenshot of the activity menu. After clicking "File - Backup Station Location, Certificate and Parameters" in the TQSL software, the generated file can be used to transfer all TQSL information from one computer to another.
P.S.: Please back up both the .tq6 and .p12 files to multiple computers or a cloud storage service.
If there's anything I haven't explained clearly, please feel free to message me!
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