User's Guide
jLog is a modern Ham radio logging program that can run on all major platforms, e.g. macOS, Linux, Windows, etc. It offers a nice, clean interface and allows efficient entry of QSOs. And, it is available for free so you can afford to try it! jLog has proven to be very stable, but you never know... Adding new functionality can introduce errors. Save copies of your log files frequently to a backup location, just in case...
jLog is written in Java and developed on a Mac, but can, in principle, run on almost any platform. Installers have been tested with macOS (12 and 11), Linux (Mint 21 LTS, Ubuntu 22.04 LTS and Fedora 34), and Windows (Windows 10 Pro and 11 Pro). Versions of jLog prior to V 6.7 required Java to be installed prior to installing jLog, but jLog now brings the necessary subset of the Java JDK 17 LTS runtime as part of the jLog application.
The User Interface is designed to be efficient, nice and easy to learn. Your comments are invited (mailto:mail@jlog.org).
A rewrite of this guide is on-going...
Download jLog from https://jlog.org and run the installer according to instructions on the jLog Download page specific to your platform. Installation should be self explanatory for most users and default values should be used unless you know what you are doing.
The jLog application uses less than 60 Mbytes of disk space plus space for the database(s). Unless you document a lot per entry, the database file is typically 200 bytes in average per entry, i.e. 4 Mbytes for 20 000 entries. Memory usage is typically 17 - 22 Mbytes (depending on configured jLog max. capacity) plus 2 kbytes per entry, i.e. approximately 64 Mbytes for 20 000 entries or 21 Mbytes for 2000 entries.
When starting jLog for the first time, three warnings will be issued:
These warnings can be safely ignored and should not reappear. After loading is completed, the jLog Main Window should appear with no entries shown.
Note that Tool Tips (providing guidance) will appear when the mouse pointer is positioned over most buttons and fields.
An example of the Main Window is shown below using the macOS Look and Feel.
The Status Window is continuously updated when the different rows of
the Main Window are selected. The Previous Field is also updated and
is showing either previous contacts with the same station or
the same country (selectable).
Navigate up/down be means of the Up/Down-keys. Open a selected entry by pushing the Space Bar.
The Status Window is automatically updated with the Country, CQ Zone, ITU Zone, Continent and rotor information (direction and distance). The current DXCC status (Worked/Confirmed) for CW, SSB and FT8 on the 9 HF bands is automatically displayed.
A Callsign search field is available to initiate searches throughout the whole log for a specific station or country. Wildcard syntaxes like 'SM5*' can be used to find all previous contacts with the SM5 area.
The Entry window allows entry of new QSOs and display or modification of existing QSOs. The macOS Look and Feel is shown below.
For new QSOs, time, frequency and mode is automatically updated from
the radio if "Auto" is active. Push the "Start" button to set the
current computer time into
the start time field. Push the "End" button to set the current
computer time into the end time field. Push "Ref" to manually update
the detailed frequency field on the 2nd line in the rightmost
position.
Note that the fields that are updated automatically are not changeable unlessthe "Auto" checkbox is unchecked. Power and Location are also considered to not need frequent updating (can be set using the Preset command).
The State/Province field is only valid for US and Canadian callsigns. It lists all States or Provinces respectively.
Navigate from field to field using the TAB-key (and SHIFT-TAB to go backwards). The Enter key is used to select OK or APPLY (if this was used to end the previous entry). The idea is to use a minimum of keystrokes and mouse operations.
New entries are backed up until properly saved to the log file. If jLog or the computer suddenly crashes, new entries are read from the backup file the next time jLog is started. The User is asked whether these entries should be added or not.
Use the Prev/Next buttons to quickly navigate from entry to entry without closing the Entry Form.
Select 'Profile' from the 'Tools' menu and, as a minimum, fill in the following information:
Misc tab | |
Backup directory (folder) | Select a (sub)directory to be used for storing copies whenever 'Backup' is activated. Remember to clean up from time to time |
Date format | Choose the preferred date format |
Position at newest entry... | Select to automatically scroll to the end of the Log |
User tab | |
Config. name |
Configuration name, i.e. the name of this
specific combination of Callsign, City, Grid, Rig, IOTA, etc. |
Abb. Config. name |
A two or three letter abbreviated Id to be used
in the Main Log Window |
Callsign | Normal callsign syntax, e.g. 'XX1XX' |
Full name |
Your full oficial name (e.g. for use when submitting Contest Logs in the Cabrillo format). Syntax: Given Name + Surname. |
Gridsquare | The Maidenhead gridsquare should be filled in
(preferably also the more precise Lat/Lon also) |
Favorites |
|
Power Low/High values | Set your defaults for the 'Low' and 'High' quick select Power buttons |
Favorite frequencies | Select three quick select Frequencies |
Additional attributes are self explanatory or described below (See Tools->Profile).
First, use the View->Columns command to remove unnecessary columns. Import the current set, remove (and sort) as desired before saving it as View '1'. Save the current view by issuing the View->Save View->1 command.
Then, in order to adapt jLog to your screen, columns should be resized. Move the cursor to the Main Window column header and place the cursor between two rows (a <-> should appear). Hold down the left mouse button and move the mouse to resize the column. Repeat for all other columns..
The Previous table will be resized to the same values when jLog is restarted or views are changed.
Note that the 'Auto' mode should be turned off if a radio is not used to set Frequency and Mode.
jLog requires no additional preparation before use. To enter a QSO simply select the 'New' command from the 'Entry' menu. Fill in the applicable data and click the 'OK' button. The entry should now appear in the Main Window. Repeat the sequence for the next entry. To enter multiple QSO without closing the Entry window, enter 'Apply' instead of 'OK' to finish each entry.
If you have log data from a previous Log program, data can be imported using the popular ADIF format if the old program supports this. This is the recommended way to import data! jLog has been verified to operate correctly with several other programs.
The default ADIF file extension is '.adi'.
If, and only if, existing data is not available in ADIF format, you should export data in a text format suitable for a Spreadsheet program like Excel. Restructure data using one of these programs and export the modified data in a "comma separated" format, i.e. using Semicolons as a separator as the preferred separator. The sequence of each line of data must be according to jLog's built-in V6 format (all on one line and no extra spaces or semicolons!):
Date;Time;Station;Frq;Mode;Pwr;Conf;Sent;Rcvd;End;Name;QTH;Remarks;S;R;DXCC;STX;SRX;Mult;Pts;
ITU;CQ;ContID;Pfx;Cont;Freq;RXpwr;State;Prov;County;QSL_Via;Age;Grid;QslRdt;QslSdt;Sect;Iota;Prop;
Qslmsg;Satmod;Satnm;Tenten;Addr;Notes;Submode;DOK;OBL;JCC;JCG;BandRX;QRP;SWL;Cmpl;QSO#;
Lat;Lon;eqslS;eqslR;eqslS_Dt;eqslR_Dt;lotwS;lotwR;lotwS_Dt;lotwR_Dt;Rig;Az;El;Eq;FI;MB;MSSH;
Bursts;Pings;Op;QRZupl;ClLupl;Sig;SigInf;Key;Config;Email;S_via;R_via;Q;ud1;ud2;Web;SrxSt;StxSt;
FreqRx;Rnd;A_Ix;A_Path;Check;Class;CredSub;CredGr;Dist;IotaIId;K_Ix;Prec;SFI;ud3;ud4;ud5;ud6;ud7;ud8;
V_St;ContOp;SKCC;FISTS;USACA;VUCC;SOTAref;sp10;sp9;sp8;sp7;sp6;sp5;sp4;sp3;sp2;sp1
Use '.jdb' as file extension to easier find the file from jLog. Use the 'Open' command from the 'File' menu to read the file. Note that this is a risky operation because jLog has not been built to allow manual generation of its internal format. It is assumed to be correct! Enter data manually in jLog, save to a file and inspect the file to verify the syntax.
The default filename used by jLog is 'Logbook.jdb'. You may use this as the name for the most frequently used file to be placed in the jLog Home folder. If this file is not found, jLog will remember the last file written to. You can open the last four files written to, using File->Recent. Edit the file 'save/recent.txt' to edit sthe the recent-list, if necessary.
Jump to: View Entry Report Contest Spot Tools Help
The Mac OS X Application menu ("jLog") contains the "About jLog"(see Help->About) and "Preferences" (corresponding to the "Profile", see Tools->Profile).
The commands Open, Save, Save As, Close, Recent and Exit are assumed to be self-explanatory. Other commands are:
If you import log info from different files with overlapping date/time, the sort command can be used to align the data. Sorting the log other than by Date/Time in Ascending order may be used to get an overview or to save a copy for special purposes.
This will make a copy of the current file in a predefined directory using a unique name and never overwriting a previous copy. The directory can be selected using the Tools->Profile command. If not set, the jLog installation directory is used. Note that you must manually delete files from time to time to recover disk space!!!
Replace all occurrences of a given value throughout the log file for either Station, Mode, Frequency, RST Sent or RST Received fields.
Export all entries or only a subset of entries, i.e. selected or queued entries. Queued entries have the 'Q' column checked.
The Export and Import commands use the Amateur Data Interchange Format (ADIF) V3 to allow interchanging data with other log programs.
JLog supports all ADIF 3.0.9 tags except: MY_ANTENNA_INTL, REGION, SILENT_KEY
The Export and Import commands use the Amateur Data Interchange Format (ADIF) V3 to allow interchanging data with other log programs using an XML-format.
JLog supports all ADIF 3.0.9 tags except: MY_ANTENNA_INTL, REGION, SILENT_KEY
Contest logs can be exported in the Cabrillo V3 format in to a file, typically named '<callsign>.cbr', e.g. 'LA3HM.cbr'.
Some information can be lost when exporting to a '.cbr'-file so preserve the original '.jdb'-file also.
Export log in HTML format to allow opening in any browser for display and optionally printing. Use File->Setup to select header, columns etc.
Use Import to merge a jLog database file into another database file. The resulting Log will be automatically sorted as part of the Import.
Setup configures the HTML output to a Browser. Add a title and select the columns to be included.
jLog will initially make use of the printer defaults, but allows
you to save specific setting for orientation and margins.
Note that whether margins are specified in 'cm' or 'inch' is
depending on the Profile (Misc-tab) setting for Distance ('km' or
'miles').
You may print the log using this command. It will display a Preview of all pages and "Print" button
that should be used to initiate the actual printing.
The Properties command provides additional data such as the number of entries on the log, a DXCC summary of total Confirmed and Worked and the number of prefixes worked.
jLog is delivered with the most suitable Look and Feel for each platform. If the native causes problems, the Java Look and Feel is used in stead.
You may want to experiment by changing Look and Feel. The last used value is used when restarting jLog. This value is saved in the 'save/LAF.1' file. This file can be deleted to start with the jLog default value.
Perform a simple search through all fields for a specified text string. The search starts at the currently selected row. The search stops at rows containing the specified text. Use Find Next (F3) to continue.
Repeat the previous Find from the currently selected row.
This allows you to filter the Main Log Window based on e.g. a date
range, CW-only and may be most important Configuration (i.e. to see
only QSOs from your weekend QTH).
The advanced Search is also available as a Button on the Main Window. Use Search to specify a complex search by combining dates, modes, etc. Note that when entering a date, 'yyyy' is interpreted as '01.01.yyyy'.
Allows you to select the bands that are actually used for various
menus (to make the drop-down menus shorter and more user friendly).
Allows you to select the frequencies that are actually used for
various menus (to make the drop-down menus shorter and more user
friendly).
Use this command to tailor the view of jLog to your needs. Three different sets can be stored. Set '1' is always selected when jLog is started. When loading or saving a permanent setting, use the Radio buttons to select the set to be updated. You can also load the set currently used.
Push the User Defined button to choose the columns you prefer to see in the Main Window. You can hide/un-hide these columns like any other column using View 1, 2 or 3 or View All.
The Mode menu can be tailored; i.e. to only contain the modes you actually use. Select or deselect individual modes. Avoid using Submodes (an ADIF 1+ proposed extension that was never approved).
The Contest ID menu can be tailored; i.e. to only contain the IDs you actually use. Select or deselect individual IDs.
The Main Window view is configurable with respect to each column's size, the sequence columns appear in and which columns that are shown. Rearrange columns as it suits you and save the current view as one of three predefined views using the Save View command.
Use one view for normal operation, one for contest operation, etc.
Open the currently selected entry using the Entry form. If 'Edit'
mode is checked, the "Auto" checkbox is automatically unchecked to
allow editing. Modified information is shown in red colour. Consider
carefully before saving it by clicking the OK button. If 'Edit' mode
is unchecked, the entry is opened and changes will be ignored.
This opens the Entry form to allow entry of new QSOs.
Time, frequency and mode is automatically updated from the radio in "Auto" is active. Push the 'Start' button to set the current computer time into the start time field. Push the 'End' button to set the current computer time into the end time field. Push "Ref" to manually update the detailed frequency field on the 2nd line in the rightmost position.
Note that these fields that are updated automatically are not changeable unless the "Auto" checkbox is unchecked. Power and Location are also considered to not need frequent updating (can be set using the Preset command).
The State/Province field is only valid for US and Canadian callsigns. It lists all States or Provinces respectively.
County is only valid for US callsigns and displays all Counties within the Selected State (above).
Navigate from field to field using the TAB-key (and SHIFT-TAB to go backwards). The Enter key is used to select OK or APPLY (if this was used to end the previous entry). The idea is to use a minimum of keystrokes and mouse operations.
New entries are backed up until properly saved to the log file. If jLog or the computer suddenly crashes, new entries are read from the backup file the next time jLog is started. The User is asked whether these entries should be added or not.
Use the Prev/Next buttons to quickly navigate from entry to entry without closing the Form.
Allows you to insert a new entry in front of a selected row
anywhere in the log.
The last entry entered can be deleted. Note that older entries cannot be deleted!
Hint: To remove an old entry in the log, set the date to a date
newer than "today's" date. Sort the log and delete the last entry.
Use this command to add the same remark to a number of selected entries.
Mark selected entries as belonging to a certain configuration
(defined in the Profile). Configurations can be used to
differentiate between callsigns, addresses, rigs, etc.
Set the Contest ID value for selected entries.
The currently selected QSO will be opened in a Map viewer provided that there are any geo information (Grid or Lat/Lon) available. Use the 'Show <grid>' button to draw the grid onto the map. The button appears when a grid is available.
Online lookup from HamQTH.com of the station of the currently selected row. The information is displayed in a separate window. User/password for HamQTH must be registered in the Profile.
Online lookup from QRZ.com of the station of the currently selected row. The information is displayed in a separate window. Use ctrl-F5 to open the QRZ window from the entry window and ctrl-F6 to transfer relevant values. User/password for QRZ must be registered in the Profile. Note that unless you are a registered, paying customer, only the Name and Country fields will be displayed. To see the remaining fields, a paid QRZ XML license is needed as a minimum.
Display the QSL-card from eQSL provided that the "eR" column is
checked.
Send selected entries to eQSL provided that User/Password for eQSL is registered in the jLog Profile, manual submission is enabled and if required, eQSL Nickname properly setup in The active Profile Config and eQSL tabs. If successful, the 'eS' flag is checked. A dialog box is shown in case errors or warnings are issued by
eQSL.
Send selected entries to Logbook of the World (LoTW) provided that User and Password for LoTW is registered in the Profile and manual submission is enabled. If successful, the 'loS' flag is checked. A dialog box is shown in case errors or warnings are issued by LoTW.
Note that TQSL (from ARRL) must be installed and TQSL Path and Location(s) must have been properly setup in the active Profile Config and LoTW tabs.
QRZ provides a logging service that allows real-time logging of new entries from jLog. This can make your log more available and also serve as a remote backup. Note that this requires a QRZ membership at XML Data or higher (also used for full QRZ lookup). Provided that a valid QRZ Logbook 'API key' has been entered into the Profile (Favorites tab), this command sends the selected entry to QRZ Logbook.
Gather information from eQSL, LoTW, QRZ and HamQTH regarding the use of eQSL and LoTW by the callsign being looked up.
When used from the Entry menu or from mouse right-click menu, the callsign of the currently selected row is automatically searched.
Position at the first entry of a specific date in the log.
Set the default values for Frequency, Mode, Power and Location to be used in the Entry form (see above). Note that the frequency and mode values are not used when a radio is connected to supply this information. The Power and Location values can be set directly or by using the values available using the buttons. The values are used as default values when creating new entries.
Use the 'Set Default' button to save the current values as the new start-up values.
Set 'Auto' (i.e. "Radio present") mode as the default. Band and Mode are automatically filled in for new entries.
Check the Edit mode to allow changing existing entries. If unchecked, entries are opened in read-only mode.
Values shown in the Main Window cannot be changed directly. An
exception is the QSL Sent/Received Check Boxes. Check the Edit S/R
to allow modifying these values directly from the Main Window.
Display the detailed DXCC status. The content is assumed to be self-explanatory.
Show all log entries matching a selected country, e.g. to select the entry to be used as proof of contact. The result is displayed in the lower part of the Main Log Window.
Close the DXCC display. Nothing is saved or modified.
Save data as shown (e.g. with rearranged columns and sorted content) to a file, e.g. to be used by an external Spreadsheet program or a Word processor for further handling.
Sort the content to get a better view or before saving it to a file by clicking the appropriate column header.
Display status for the Worked All Continents (WAC), Worked All States (WAS), Worked All Zones (WAZ), Worked all Prefixes (WPX), US Counties Award (USCA), Islands On The Air (IOTA) and VHF/UHF Century Club (VUCC) awards. The Save As commands are described above (under DXCC). Sort by clicking the appropriate column header.
Note that the WAS Report now handles the Primary Administrative Subdivision of many countries (e.g. CA, CH, BE, DE, DK, FR, NL, PT).
Select 'Mixed', 'CW' or 'SSB', etc. to change the view for the different frequencies.
Show all log entries matching a selected state, e.g. to select the entry to be used as proof of contact. The result is displayed in the lower part of the Main Log Window.
"The Contest functionality has been considered experimental and has remained unchanged for many years. The primary support is for the SAC, ARRL-DX-SSB, ARRL-DX-CW, CQ-WPX-SSB and CQ-WPX-CW contests.
Only auto-updated numeric sequence number exchanges are therefore supported. This is expected to change in the next version.
Use a separate log file when operating during the contest. This file can later be merged with your ordinary log.
Recalculate Multipliers and Points for the contest selected under Recalc modes. Note that a Recalc mode (e.g. SAC, ARRL, CQWW, etc.) must be selected and Contest Mode turned on before Re-calc is activated. Multipliers and Points are updated in the log and the resulting numbers are displayed in a popup.
Note that this still is considered experimental functionality and only covers a few contests.
Turn On/Off Contest Mode (e.g. auto incrementing the Send sequence number).
Set the contest Recalc modes for the few contests supported for or select Manual mode for all other contests.
Select the Contest ID from the larger list maintained under 'View->Contest ID'. The Cabrillo length and Exchange type will be automatically filled in for the most popular contests. If not, read the contest rules and determine the proper values to be selected.
The Exchange Type indicates whether one or two extra exchanges are used in this contest (in addition to RS(T) or dB). It also indicates whether or not exchange 1 is numeric and should be auto incremented after each QSO. The available values are:
Fill inn any fixed values for Exchange 1 and Exchange 2.
If Auto number is to be used, set the current value of the Number series manually. This value is automatically incremented.
Setup the Cabrillo V3 header to be used when exporting a contest log. Saves the current values (to a file named 'cab-hdr.cbr'). These values will be used when exporting a log using 'File->Export->Cabrillo'.
Internet DX Spots (DX Clusters) are handled via Telnet or via the DX Concentrator (DXC) application. DXC must be installed on the same computer as jLog or on a computer accessible via a TCP/IP network (e.g. LAN or Internet). See the jLog Profile for setup.
Open the Spot Log window to overview incoming DX Spot reports.
Set the frequency of the radio to the frequency of the currently selected entry in the Spot Log.
Open a connection to the host for receiving spots from the host chosen in the 'Spot' tab in the jLog Profile.
Close an open connection..
Show/Hide the Clock by checking this command.
The Clock always displays UTC format.
Show/Hide the Keyer using this command.
Show the mini-Keyer.
On-line synchronization with eQSL.cc to update the status for received cards; i.e. sets the eQSL Received flag for entries corresponding to the current log.
Import saved eQSL.cc "Logbook/OutBox" file to update the status for
sent cards; i.e. sets the eQSL Sent flag for entries corresponding
to the current log.
On-line synchronization with LoTW to update the status for received cards; i.e. sets the LoTW Received flag for entries corresponding
to the current log. You must choose the date interval for the update. Please avoid unnecessary large intervals as this increases the load for the LoTW QSL Service.
US State/County can be automatically looked up from QRZ.com via an Internet connection. The result is automatically entered for all selected entries provided that the callsign is found in the QRZ.com database.
Note: Select an area by first clicking on the start row (i.e. select it). Then, scroll to the last row to be selected, press SHIFT and click on the last row. The whole area should now appear as selected. You can select/deselect a specific row by holding down CTRL and clicking the row. Repeat for multiple rows.
Use QRZ and/or HamQTH to lookup missing or ambiguous zones in the selected rows. Note that this puts a heavy load on the lookup services, so use it when necessary.
Checks the currently open Log. The result is displayed in a new Log
Window. One or more entries can be selected and opened, edited or
made hidden. The latter relieves you of having to see warnings that
have already been checked out.
The QSO Number value indicates the next QSO Number to be used for new entries.
Re-number the current log starting with the QSO Number specified (should normally be set to 1 if the whole log is to be renumbered).
Find duplicate entries and optionally remove them. Please note that only the fields Date, Time on, Station, Frequency, Mode, Send, Receive, Time off, Name and QTH are checked.
The WSJT-X Tracker (or just Tracker for short) is a built-in tool that links jLog and WSJT-X to provide extended capabilities. It assists the user in keeping track of confirmed Countries, Prefixes, US States and US Counties by both color coding callsigns in WSJT-X entries and by it own list of potential stations of interest. More information is available here.
Open the Geo Calculator dialog to allow various conversions of Latitude and Longitude values to/from Gridsquare. Note that various forms are accepted, e.g.
All three are acceptable. You can choose between the first and the last
when calculating Lat/Lon from Gridsquare.
Lookup information regarding a selected entry from QRZ.com. Note that unless you are a registered, paying customer, only the Name and Country fields will be displayed. An XML license is needed as a minimum and user/password for QRZ must be registered in the Profile.
When used from the Tools menu, it starts with an empty callsign.
Lookup information regarding a selected entry from QRZ.com. User/password for HamQTH must be registered in the Profile.
When used from the Tools menu, it starts with an empty callsign.
Gather information from eQSL, LoTW, QRZ and HamQTH regarding the use of eQSL and LoTW by the callsign being looked up.
When used from the Tools menu, it starts with an empty callsign.
Radio Setup has been separated from the Profile to allow Profile changes without disturbing active radios. Many changes to radio setting will require a jLog restart.
Setup three Radios and other optional interfaces. The built-in Keyer shares the COM port with a Radio. You must check the "Radio present" box even if you use a keyer only (see Radio Parameters in the Radio Interface below). The three radios have separate sub-tabs with equal content.
The first choice is whether to use Serial connection or TCP/IP. This will enable/disable other parameters accordingly.
For serial connections, Port is used to select a built-in or USB-based serial port. Note that you may have to re-start jLog after having checked "Radio present" in order to see any entries in the "Port" drop-down menu. You will need to re-start jLog after plugging in a USB-device, too. Then set the proper Baudrate.
For TCP/IP connections the address and port of the radio must be entered. The radio or more precisely the
application for the radio is typically running on the same computer as jLog. The address can then be entered as
localhost or 127.0.0.1. The port is determined by the radio.
Set the manufacturer and model. You may have to experiment with different Auto refresh values and enable/disable the auto refresh depending on the radio model. A to high refresh rate may garble data or block the radio. Icom and most Kenwood radios should not need to use auto-refresh provided that they are set up to report automatic frequency and mode changes. ICOM refers to this as "Transceive" mode. Select Auto upd. in this case. If Transceive is disabled in the radio, you will have to use Auto refresh.s
For serial connections, the Modem status is for information only and displays the actual status of the control signals. Set controls allows you the activate DTR (should normally be activated, specifically if it is the source of power for other modem signals). Flow control mode should normally be set to RTS ON unless a Keyer is connected (in which case "KEYER" should be selected). Use the other alternatives only if your radio manual specifies that RTS/CTS signaling or XON/XOFF is to be used.
Each radio may have a corresponding CAT Server set up to share the radio connection with WSJT-X. The port selected here will have to be entered into the Radio setup of WSJT-X and to use the jLog CAT Server, WSJT-X must specify FlexRadio 6xxx as the Rig and Network Server 127.0.0.1:<port> where <port> is the port setup in jLog, e.g. 127.0.0.1:5005.
In order to allow WSJT-X to turn on/off TX (transmitter) via CAT, you have the option of specifying the sequence used by your radio for TX On and TX off. When using the CAT Server, these values will have to be "TX1;" and "RX;" respectively. This may be integrated into the radio definition files in a future version of jLog.
Logging address/port is where WSJT-X send logging info after a contact has been completed, typically set to localhost:2237. This must correspond to the setup in WSJT-X.
wsjtx.log path is optional as must be set to the directory fond by the WSJT-X 'File->Open log directory' command. It is used for WSJT-X file import only as is not necessary if the logging address/port has been set up.
Sync Delay is experimental and allows radio 1 to be synchronised to radio 2. If radio 1 is a traditional transceiver, radio 2 can be an SDR receiver used to navigate. You will also need a T/R-switch (e.g. MFJ-1208B-SDR) to control antenna switch-over. Experiment with 200 - 500 ms sync delays. This combo will make the old transceiver become a modern SDR transceiver when it comes to user experience.
See also the description in the Getting Started Chapter above. The Profile is unchanged when installing an updated version.
Home folder should be set to the folder where you keep your log files, etc.
Backup folder should be set to a dedicated folder, preferably on a different drive. Whenever the Backup button is pushed, a copy of the current (.jdb) log file is saved (with a '.tmp' extension). Remember to clean up from time to time.
Backup frequency can be used to make automatic copies of the log at regular intervals. make sure that you have the free space needed for may copies of the log. The interval is calculated from the previous automatic backup or last push of the Backup button.
Date format allows changing between the three formats: 'yyyy-mm-dd', 'dd.mm.yyyy' and 'mm/dd/yyyy'. The current log is updated when closing the profile.
Distance unit is used to display the distance part of the
Rotor information (and will currently also affect Print Preview's
choice of unit for margins ('cm' or 'inch').
Position at newest entry after Open will set the initial
position to the last entry in stead of the first entry.
Show filename in title makes the filename that is always shown in the Status bar more visible (in case you have multiple copies of jLog running simultaneously).
Open WSJT-X Tracker window at start-up is for those who are mainly using FT8. You can always use Cmd-T (Mac) or Alt-T (Windows/Linux) to open
it.
You should define at least one configuration and as a minimum fill in Callsign and Full Name fields. Verify that the Country is correct and also the CQ and ITU Zones in case they are not automatically set to an unambiguous value.
Configurations are typically used to reflect alternative QTHs, but can be used to reflect e.g. guest Operators or Rigs (in case multiple rigs can be used for a given frequency or mode).
You may enter a precise 10 character long Gridsquare to generate lat/lon but can still limit the length for ADIF export to e.g. 6 (settable from 4 to 10).
Setup values for Power Low/High buttons and the three Favorite frequency buttons to be available i the Entry window.
Specify the Default signal strength to be used for new entries when no value is filled in.
Source for QSL Status tracking and DXCC Report determines
the source and offers the choice between the Paper-based QSL
columns, the eQSL columns or the LoTW columns. Note that you will
have to re-load (i.e. save and re-open) the log file after changing
these values in order for the status to be correct.
Enter values from QRZ offers the ability to fill in values from QRZ after either a fully automatic look-up or a manual look-up. Select the fields to be included. Enter your QRZ login credentials in the Profile.Note that the full QRZ lookup requires you to pay a yearly fee.
The QRZ Logbook API Key is available on the QRZ Logbook 'Settings' page. Note that if you enable automatic logging, you can halt automatic logging for a new entry by inserting '-A' in the Remarks field. The -A will be removed by jLog before storing the entry.
Setup Telnet DX Spots (or indirect access via DXC or similar). Choose a predefined Host or specify Address and Port directly. The predefined hosts are defined in the file 'conf/cluster.dat' in the jLog installation folder. You can freely edit this file. The syntax is one host per line specifying <name>,<IP Address>,<Port>.
Allows automatic or manual logging at eQSL. Successful submissions are logged to the file 'save/eqsl-log.txt'.
Specify the User name and Password to be used. You
can make use of multiple IDs at eQSL, e.g. reflecting different
Callsigns. eQSL ID can also be linked with a specific Configuration
(see 'Config tab above)'. This will override the choice of Active ID
in the Profile.
Allow manual submission must be checked to allow manual submission using the Entry->Submit (eQSL) command (or corresponding pop-up menu command).
Auto-convert QSL-status for entries marked 'eQSL' in 'QSL Sent Via' field is only applicable when converting a log database file from V 3.x to V4. It allows you to automatically set the new eQSL S/R-fields using the previous combined S/R-fields and the value 'eQSL' in the 'QSL Sent Via' field. Verify manually and clear these "Assume..." fields when they are no longer needed.
Allows automatic or manual logging at LoTW.
Specify the User name and Password to be used. You can make use of multiple IDs at LoTW, e.g. reflecting different Callsigns. LoTW ID can also be linked with a specific Configuration (see 'Config tab above)'. This will override the choice of Active ID in the Profile.
Enable real time logging with the Submit new entries automatically checkbox. When unchecked, entries must be manually submitted using the Entry->Submit command (and the same User name and Password). Note! You can avoid automatic submission for a new entry by inserting '-A' in the Remarks field (also possible in WSJT-X). The '-A' will be removed by jLog.Allow manual submission must be checked to allow manual submission using the Entry->Submit (eQSL) command (or corresponding pop-up menu command).
Path to TQSL Program must be setup properly.WSJT-X User Activity check will only consider LoTW Users active if they have submitted entries during a certain period. Specify this period here, e.g. during the "last three months" or "last year".
This allows you to store any info related to a contact in up to ten columns. You can define the column name and values for every row. Examples can be columns like "Wife-name" or "Pet-name", "Car- brand", etc, You are allowed to have two different sets of names. Use File->Properties to allocate a set to a specific log file. Use the Entry window ('Udef' tab) to fill in values for contacts just like you do with any other info. ADIF export will include these fields in a standardized format.
Specify how to handle an empty End-time field when closing the Entry form (dialogue).
You can force the Entry form to stay on-top; i.e. not be hidden by any other windows. There is a checkbox at the bottom of the Entry form that allow you to temporarily disable this functionality.
You can control the frequency of checking for updates. If you have a permanent connection to the Internet, frequent checking is recommended to be quickly warned in case a critical update is released; i.e. at least weekly. You can issue the "Help->Check for Updates" command any time regardless of this setting.
You can setup the mode for each of the four mode quick select buttons in the Entry window.
You can also setup a conversion of 'PKT' mode from the radio to any of the preselected modes, e.g. FT8.
Change the size of all fonts in jLog relative to their default size sby adjusting the slider.
Alternatively, replace and/or resize individual groups of fonts.
The Profile (consisting of the files 'profile.1' and 'profile.xml') can be placed outside their normal location in jLog's '$HOME/jLog/save' folder. Create the file '$HOME/jLog/save/profile.txt' and insert a single line with the new location path, e.g. '/Users/john/Public/'.
This can be useful for Dual-boot setups, etc.
Displays the on-line jLog User's Guide in a browser.
Displays various System information related to the Java environment. Use Save As to save it to a file e.g. for sending it to mail@jlog.org when requesting support.
On-line check for new versions. Make sure that you are connected to the Internet when using this command. The http-protocol is used in read-only mode so nothing is sent from your computer.
Displays the jLog and Java Versions and the address of the jLog Home Page (https://jlog.org/) and E-mail address ( mail@jlog.org) to be used for Support.
Jump to: Configurations Tailoring View Tailoring Menus UserDef fields
Syncing radios Queue Relocating Home Contests Track QSLs Interface jLog
The following keys are used for efficient navigation between the windows without using the mouse.
'Alt' + 'm' or 'Alt' + 'M' |
Switch focus to the Main Log window |
'Alt' + 'l' or 'Alt' + 'L' |
Switch focus to the Log Entry window (if open) |
'Alt' + 'k' or 'Alt' + 'K' |
Switch to the Keyer if open or otherwise the mini-keyer. If neither is open, a new entry is opened and the mini-keyer is started. |
The following keyboard commands are available when a log entry has been selected in the Main Log or Previous Log windows:
' ' | Open current entry |
'e' or 'E' | Edit current entry |
'z' or 'Z' | Switch between Main and Previous lists |
'p' or 'P' | Switch to Previous list (only available in Main Log) |
'm' or 'M' | Switch to Main list (only available in Previous Log) |
jLog is designed to take advantage of collecting all contacts in a single file, even if these are linked to different QTHs, IOTAs, equipment, operators, etc. Configurations reflecting e.g. different QTHs, may also be linked to different TQSL 'Locations' and 'eQSL 'Nicknames'.
Configurations are defined in the Profile and used by mapping each row in the log (Main window) to the correct configuration reflecting QTH, TQSL Nickname, etc.
Configurations are defined in the Profile, Config tab where one or more configurations are listed in the table at the top. The table shows a subset of the values to help differentiate between the entries. When you select an entry in this table, the full set of values is shown below. Give each entry a characteristic name and a very short 'Abbreviated Config. name' to be used in the main log window. If you make changes to the values for a selected configuration, click 'Update' to save it before switching to another configuration. Changes to the selected configuration is saved when closing the Profile.
Please observe that the TQSL Locations and eQSL Nicknames are defined under the LoTW and eQSL tabs respectively. TQSL Locations must reflect the configurations defined in the TQSL application. eQSL Nicknames must reflect the values defined at eqsl.cc.
When a new entry is created, the currently selected configuration in the Profile is selected so it will not require any additional action.
In case you need to change the configuration for one or more entries in the Main window, simply select them and use Entry->Set Configuration to change to another value.
ADIF Import will automatically generate new configuration entries if the currently available entries does not match. You may need to rename, delete or rearrange entries both in the Profile and in the main log window after a new ADIF import.
The main window view can be tailored by rearranging the sequence of columns, resizing column widths, removing columns or adding columns.
Move a given column to the left or to the right by clicking og holding down the mouse on a column header and then moving it to either side. Avoid moving any column ahead of, or between Date and Time. Repeat for other columns if necessary. End by using View->Save view->n to save the view.
Place the cursor between the column you want to remove and the next column, making sure that the special cursor appears. Then, click and hold the mouse down while moving to the left or right. Release when the column size is as preferred. Repeat for other columns if necessary. End by using View->Save view->n to save the view.
Open View->Columns and select the column name in the Active Columns table to the right and push the Rem(ove) button. Repeat if necessary and the close the Columns setup window using the OK button.
jLog has a basic set of 13 columns that cannot be replaced; only moved or removed (actually hidden). The initial 13 columns are followed by 10 replaceable columns. Each of the replaceable columns can be swapped with 33 other columns (e.g. IOTA#, CQ Zone, Contest ID, etc.).
To add a column (i.e. replace one of the 10 flexible columns), open View->Columns. The table to the left contains the 13 basic columns followed by the currently chosen 10 flexible columns. Edit the replaceable columns using the "Setup flexible columns" button, then exit using the OK button. The content of the Available columns to the left will reflect the changes, as will the table to the right where replaced columns will be automatically removed. Add a column to the Active columns table by selecting the name in the Available Columns table and then clicking the '+>' button in the middle. Repeat if necessary and the close the Columns setup window using the OK button.
Some of the Drop-down menus may contain a large number of entries that would complicate every day use. The View menu provides commands to select the entries that reflect your needs. Only the selected entries will appear e.g. the corresponding entries in the Entry window.
Use View->Modes to select your preferred modes. Not that the ADIF hierarchy is shown, differentiating between modes and submodes. As an example: FT8 is a mode, but FT4 is a submode under the MFSK mode.
Modes with submodes shows a '>' symbol to the left of the mode name. Click on the '>' symbol to show the submodes. Use the checkboxes to select preferred modes.
jLog mode menus (e.g. the Entry window) provides a list of a these selected names, without differentiating between modes and submodes. In case of ADIF export, the hierarchy is restored automatically.
Allows you to select the Frequencies (or more precisely, Frequency Bands) that are actually used (to make the drop-down menus shorter and more user friendly).
Allows you to select the Contest_IDs that are actually used (to make the drop-down menus shorter and more user friendly).
Names are as defined by ADIF, i.e. an abbreviated name used in menus and the official full name. Some of the contests have two additional parameters:
A somewhat experimental function in Tools->Radios allows you to enter a Sync Delay that will enable Radio 2 -> 1 synchronization. Any non-zero value will enable synchronization, but recommended values are e.g. 200 - 500+ ms.
A typical use of this is to allow an SDR receiver connected as Radio 2 control the frequency of a traditional transceiver connected as Radio 1. This combination "converts" a traditional transceiver into an SDR transceiver when it comes to getting a good overview of the frequency band.
UserDef fields allows you to store up to eight non-standard values related to a QSO. You can define a name of each field. Examples to give you an idea can be fields like "Wife-name", "Pet-name" or "Car-brand", etc. e.g. related to your special interests. These fields will be exported with the standard fields in an ADIF export, along with your field names.
jLog allows you to have two different sets of field names (to be setup in the Profile UserDef tab). Use File->Properties to allocate such a set to a specific log file. Use the Entry window ('Udef' tab) to fill in values for QSOs just like you do with any other info.
Note that jLog V6.8 allocates the UserDef7 and UserDef8 fields to store contest Exchange 2 sent and received fields. This limitation is an interim solution and will be changed with jLog V7 that will use an extended file format.
Many jLog commands allows you to handle multiple entries using multi-selection in the main window. A slightly more semi-permanent selection can be obtained by using the Queue to select entries. The Queued entries will be saved with File->Save and restored when opening the file again.
You can use the Queue ("Q") to indicate entries for further inspection or manual modification. ADIF Export can also act upon Queued entries only. Cabrillo export may also use the Queue in a future version.
The jLog Home folder is typically placed in a user's $HOME folder. You may want to relocate the jLog folder to share it across computers and in particular to share it using e.g. Apple iCloud or other cloud storages.
The Profile (consisting of in particular, the files 'profile.1' and 'profile.xml') can be placed outside their normal location in jLog's '$HOME/jLog/save' folder. Create the file '$HOME/jLog/save/profile.txt' and insert a single line with the new location path, e.g., '/Users/john/Public/'.
jLog has had a minimal ("experimental") contest support for more than a decade. jLog V6.8 extends the contest support, although still being somewhat experimental and main targeting the not-so-very-active contest contenders. You can log contest entries directly in jLog and export the result using the new Cabrillo Export V3.
Unless you have not yet used View->Contest IDs, please do it now to select your favorite contests.
Open Contest->Setup before starting contest logging and select the desired ContestID. The parameters Cabrillo Length and Exchange Type will be automatically filled in for the most popular contests. If not filled in, study the contest information and set these entries yourself. The Exchange Type indicates whether one or two extra exchanges are used in this contest (in addition to RS(T) or dB). It also indicates whether or not exchange 1 is numeric and should be auto-incremented after each QSO.
If either of the Exchange fields are supposed to carry a fixed value, this is the place to fill in these values. jLog will automatically copy these values to the Entry window before a new QSO as long as Contest->On is enabled.
After completing Contest->Setup, use Contest->On to enable the contest exchange fields in the Entry window. Note that these fields are enabled according to the Exchange Type field in Contest->Setup and will have any fixed values set in Contest->Setup, automatically filled in.
It should normally be favorable to push the Tab key to navigate between fields.
Each contest QSO should be ended using the "Apply" button in the Entry window. This will prepare for the next QSO by storing the record, clearing fields and if necessary, auto-incrementing sequence numbers and filling in any fixed values for the exchange fields.
This is perhaps the most experimental part of contest support so far. Only a few contests are specifically handled, filling in multipliers, points and calculating the final score. These are the SAC, ARRL DX and CQ-WPX, all using Exchange 1 Auto-numbering mode. Other contests are supposed to use the Contest->Manual position indicating no attempt to calculate the final score.
After finishing logging, use Cabrillo Export to export all or selected entries to a file for submission to the contest organizer. This implies setting up the Cabrillo V3 header. You should inspect the Contest Rules to determine which header entries that need to be filled in.
If you are a serious contester using a dedicated contest logger (e.g. N1MM), you should use File->Import->ADIF to transfer the QSOs. If ContestID is not transferred from the logger, select the QSOs in the main window and use Entry->Set ContestID to set it.
jLog allow for independent tracking of QSLs Sent/Received via
Each of them provide separate columns with checkboxes for sent and received. If you need to edit QSL Status manually, make sure that 'Edit S/R' is enabled (i.e. Entry->Edit S/R toggles this flag).
QSL Status (S/R) is shown as a checkbox in the main Window. The values can be updated directly by clicking inside the checkbox provided that you have enabled this function. The value Entry->'Edit S/R' enables/disables this function (also available in the right-click pop-up menu). QSL status can also be updated in the Entry form.
If you use an external program to print QSLs or QSL labels, you may want to use ADIF Export to transfer all entries, or selected entries only. Use either multiple row selection or the Queue column. Multiple rows are selected by means of the Shift and/or Ctrl keys (slightly platform dependant). The Queue column behaves just like the QSL S/R columns. The ADIF Export pop-up contains checkboxes to allow only the selected or the queued entries to be exported.
Use of the simple Search field in the Main Window is recommended to easily find the entry when updating the log after having received a QSL card.
jLog provides automatic and manual functions for interaction with ARRL's Logbook of The World (LoTW).
The LoTW User name and password must be entered into the Profile before this service can be used. The LoTW User name and password must be entered into the Profile before this service can be used. You can also choose whether or not to automatically send new log entries or also block manual sending of entries. In the latter case, ADIF Export must be used to transfer entries. The automatic functions obviously requires a permanent connection to the Internet.
jLog makes use of ARRL's TQSL program to sign entries before submission. The path to the TQSL program must therefore be set in the Profile. TQSL makes use of the term location when signing. Make sure that the location values are known in jLog. These values are presented as choices when establishing 'config' values in the Profile; i.e. a given config typically maps to a TQSL location.
QSLs are sent to LoTW in several ways
Use the Tools->LoTW Sync command to update the eQSL Received status column.
To update the LoTW S/R status columns for previously sent entries, use the Tools->LoTW Sync command. Make sure that the log file corresponds to the LoTW log! Note that this may take a while to complete if the number of QSOs is large. Also note that this will not create new entries at either side. Please observe any irregularities by inspecting the log file 'import.txt'.
jLog provides automatic and manual functions for interaction with eQSL.
The eQSL User name and password must be entered into the Profile before this service can be used. You can also choose whether or not to automatically send new log entries (using the eQSL "Real-time interface") or also block manual sending of entries. In the latter case, ADIF Export must be used to transfer entries. The automatic functions obviously requires a permanent connection to the Internet.
QSLs are sent to eQSL in several ways
Use the Tools->eQSL Sync (Inbox) command to update the eQSL Received status column.
To update the eQSL Received status column, use the Tools-> eQSL Sync (Inbox) command. Make sure that the log file corresponds to the eQSL log! Note that this may take a while to complete if the number of QSOs is large. Also note that this will not create new entries at either side. Please observe any irregularities by inspecting the log file 'import.txt'.
To update the eQSL Sent status column, use the Tools->eQSL Import (Outbox) command. Prior to this, visit the eQSL Outbox tab and click on the 'Download Log in ADIF format ' link, save to a local file (to be imported in jLog).
The built-in keyer can be used when a radio set is connected to the computer. Two Keyer interfaces are available; the standard Keyer and a mini-Keyer (visible only when adding new entries). Switch to a keyer from Log input using ALT+'k' and back again using ALT+'l'.
Send user defined text using Function Keys F5 to F12 or type in text using the keyboard. All characters represented by the Morse code can be transmitted. In addition, unused characters are used to represent special sequences as follows:
+ | KN |
& | AR |
% | AS |
< | KA |
> | SK |
_ | EEEEEEEE |
The following keys are used to indicate that specific values should be inserted:
* | Your own callsign is inserted (as defined in the Profile) |
@ | The other station's callsign (from an open new entry only) is inserted |
$ | The 'Sent RS(T)' (from an open new entry only) is inserted |
# | The 'Send Serial Number' (from an open new entry in contest mode only) is inserted |
These characters can be used both in F5 - F12 character strings and typed in from the keyboard.
Keys F2 - F4 are used as follows (may change in the future):
F2 | FLUSH transmission buffer (i.e. cancel all transmission) |
F3 | Increase Speed (same as PageUp) |
F4 | Decrease Speed (same as Page Down) |
The Keyer uses the Radio interface port selected in the Profile. The RTS pin (7) is used for keyer output. Ground is pin 5.
A Radio interface module is included with jLog to allow automatic logging of frequency and mode. When a radio is properly connected, the current frequency and mode is displayed in the lower right corner. Click in this field to update the frequency or turn on Auto update in the Profile. Note that older radios may not be suited for automatic update. ICOM radios will always update automatically, provided that the "Transceive" mode is on.
If you do not need the radio interface, turn off 'Radio present' in the Radio tab in the Profile.
Please visit the jLog Web site (installer page) for updated, platform specific instructions.
Please refer to the equipment manual. The following guidelines are valid for e.g. my old Icom IC-765:
Using a standard 9-pin D-type female connector for the PC, the Radio need only bes connected to pin 2 (TX), 3 (RX) and 5 (GND).
However, pins 1 (DCD), 4 (DTR), 6 and 9 must be interconnected at the computer end. Pins 7 (RTS) and 8 (CTS) must be interconnected if a Keyer is not used. If a Keyer is used, pin 8 must be connected to pin 4 (with 1, 6 and 9) and pin 7 used as output to the Keyer as shown below:
Goto e.g. http://www.qsl.net/g3vgr/civ.html for a suitable ICOM - PC signal converter. Similar solutions may be needed for older Kenwood and Yaesu models.
The radio parameters can be configured using the Tools->Profile menu. Please report back positive and negative experiences.
Set values using recommendations in the computer and radio manuals.
To interface a Keyer without using the Radio (CAT) interface:
jLog can interface modern radios using TCP/IP in stead of a serial port, e.g. for the Flex 6000 series.
The WSJT-X Tracker (or just Tracker for short) is a built-in tool that links jLog and WSJT-X to provide
extended capabilities. It assists the user in keeping track of confirmed Countries, Prefixes, US States and US
Counties by both color coding callsigns in WSJT-X entries and by it own list of potential stations of interest.
The logic is similar to the color coding of entries in WSJT-X.
WSJT-X indicates e.g. whether or not a specific country has been worked or not.
The WSJT-X
Tracker on the other hand, indicates whether or not a specific country has
been confirmed or not. Confirmation status can be related to both eQSL and LoTW. It will also
take into account whether or not the station of interest is listed as an Authenticity Guaranteed (AG)
eQSL user
or as a confirmed user of LoTW.
The Tracker will both show selected stations in the Tracker Main windows and as colored entries in WSJT-X as shown here:
JTAlert (Windows only) and Gridtracker are examples of applications providing similar kind of services as the
WSJT-X Tracker
The Tracker communicates with WSJT-X using the UDP Logging Port. The port is setup on the Profile->Radio page (typically using localhost or 127.0.0.1 as address and port 2237).
The are more than one way to connect WSJT-X and jLog to the radio when also using both of them:
Start the Tracker using Tools->WSJT-X Activity Tracker or simply Cmd-T (Mac) or Alt-T (Windows/Linux). You can start it
automatically by checking "Open at start-up" in the Profile->Misc tab under WSJT-X Tracker.
The columns are as follows:
Column header |
Description |
Station | Callsign |
Modif | CQ modifier/extension (e.g. DX, EU, AS, US, JP, etc.) or RR73 |
Sig | WSJT-X 'Sig', i.e. signal strength |
aWkd | Already worked country (marked as 'w') |
eC | eqsl Confirmed country |
lC | lotw Confirmed country |
eU | eqsl User AG (i.e. on the Authenticity Guarantied users list) |
lU | lotw User (i.e. on the list of users that has submitted to LoTW) |
Grid | |
Country | |
Comments | |
The 'Setup' button in the Tracker Main window will open the Tracker Setup window.
WSJT-X Tracker Setup window
Only stations with a stronger signal than 'Minimum signal strength' will be acted upon both in the
WSJT-X
Tracker main window and with respect to coloring stations in WSJT-X list.
'Show countries not confirmed by both eQSL and LoTW' will list non-confirmed countries as long as they are not confirmed by both eQSL and LoTW. (There is an intention to differentiate this similar to the following entries).
You can differentiate between eQSL and LoTW for non-confirmed prefixes, US States and US Counties. Note that color coding will give priority to prefixes over states and states over counties.
The last two rows are assumed to be self-explanatory and less frequently used. Note that 'Stations worked before' are always colored in WSJT-X lists. This option is related to the Tracker main window only.
You can ignore specific countries. Enter the DXCC numbers separated by comma (no space). Or, simply push the Set button and select from the menu.
The Refresh button will refresh the eQSL and LoTW user lists. This is particularly important for LoTW since the list contains a last active date.
Another example of WSJT-X callsign coloring:
In the example above, YH2 and YH5 are prefixes that has not been confirmed. BH6LIG and BD4STG has already been worked.
The following codes are used to color callsigns in WSJT-X.
Note that "New" is this context is short for "Not yet confirmed".
The colors (foreground and background combinations) are currently fixed, but a future version may introduce some degree of configurability.
The non-registered version of jLog allows a maximum of 200 entries, mainly for evaluation purposes. Register jLog (using Help->Register) and open up more capacity free of charge. The penalty of specifying too high capacity is the corresponding memory requirement. So unless you have a powerful computer with lots of RAM, you should start with a reasonable value and re-register later if you need to increase the capacity. Remember that when more than one log file is used, the capacity must match the size of the largest file.
Note that Callsign and Name will appear on the Main screen (top right). These values will be used when e.g. creating Contest Log Headers in the Cabrillo format.
Q: I get lots of 'Check Config' warnings when I run Verify...
A: Please fill in at least one entry in the Profile under the
'Config' tab, including a Config Abb. Go to the Main window and mark
all (Ctrl-A) or a subset of the entries, right-click and choose 'Set
Configuration'. Choose the relevant abbreviated Configuration name.
Q: When I select some QSOs and do LoTW Submission I get the error: "Configuration has no mapping to TQSL Location"
A: There must be a link from the Location of the entry (seen in the Main window), via Profile Config TQSL Loc, then Profile locations LoTW to the TQSL app Station Locations.