ARRL SSB Sweepstakes WRL Impressions

Hello-

I’m transitioning from Windows (using Flex 6400) and N3FJP. This last weekend I gave WRL a try and had some success, but found the interface a bit clunky.

I’m now using an IPAD with the same Flex radio and the SmartSDR app. It seems like the WRL app doesn’t have some features of WRL-web, so I opted for the web on the sweepstakes.

First, contest settings (power, non-assisted) doesn’t save. This is fairly minor but seems broken. My biggest issue was that the dupe-check didn’t work. In this contest, only one contact is allowed across all bands and did not pick that up. Those rules should be integrated into each contest.

I realize WRL isn’t N3FJP, but I found the FJP interface clean and very easy to use. I see there is a CAT connection for WRL to N3FJP for IOS that is not yet implemented for the Flex. I will see if that can be worked as having the frequency and mode recorded per contact is convenient.

I found the interface not great when quickly trying to log contacts. The order should be specifically layed out as I’m waiting for his information: his call - serial number - check - section. I had to think about skipping over my serial number each time, which I know seems minor, but in the heat of the contest is cumbersome. Also, N3FJP has a nifty box to check when you take a break from operating so you can see your time.

I may give this another try for the 10m contest in December, but these were my immediate thoughts.

Thanks,

Scott, W0SJE

My thoughts as well, Scott. Thank you. I would add that it’d be nice for the (My) Serial Number box to be down with the “My Exchange” items so I can just read them without my eyes having to jump around the screen.