In this post I am going to go over downloading GridTracker (GT) and using it with WSJT-X and Ham Radio Deluxe (HRD). We can use QSO Forwarding in HRD Logbook to receive contacts (QSO's) from WSJT-X because it's easy and efficient. This is a "How To" with screen captures below. Please subscribe, if you haven't already done so. There will be a companion video coming out soon.

You might want to take a look at the last two articles I did on GT (see links below.) It’s a handsome looking program and has a beautiful map with informative layers like, US NEXRAD, time zone, moon position, PSK Reporter, etc..

HRD Logbook QSO Forwarding Settings

If you don't have HRD and would like to try it for free, there is a link below.

With HRD I normally use QSO forwarding along with WSJT-X. So even though GridTracker allows logging into HRD Logbook I decided to stick with QSO forwarding. No reason other than it's easy.

If you need to, have a look at my post on QSO forwarding.

HRD Logbook does the heavy lifting like Callsign lookup and uploading to my online logs.

WSJT-X Settings

Download WSJT-X. I have many posts on this program and using it with HRD. Category link for FT8.

If you have seen my other articles and videos you’ll know that I normally use a CI-V cable for WSJT-X rig control. That way I get to use the ICOM 7610 or the ICOM 7300, which ever radio I’m operating, for the Radio in WSJT-X. In my experience this seems to work better than any other method.

So if you don’t have a CI-V cable you can pick up an inexpensive one on E-Bay.

The USB cable is used to carry the audio and the CI-V cable is used to carry the radio commands. In the radio you’ll need to set up "Unlink from [REMOTE]." The radios internal settings don’t change from one software program to the other.

See the button to my screen capture pages on the top menu. These settings work for all of my software programs like Ham Radio Deluxe, DXLab Suite, ACLog, N1MM Logger, FLdigi, WSJT-X, JT-Alert, Mac software programs and many more.

Another easy way to use WSJT-X with HRD is to not start HRD rig control. Just start HRD Logbook and setup WSJT-X to use the USB cable and the radio model for the Rig in WSJT-X. Does this make sense? It's an easy way to use QSO forwarding and not be bothered with connections you don't really need.

Downloading GridTracker and it's Program Settings

If you haven't already done so, download GridTracker. It's easy to install. Have a look at my previous post, GridTracker, WSJT-X and Log4OM. Even if you aren’t using Log for the Old Man (Log4OM) it should be helpful. There are videos for that article you will find useful.

I found out some new things in GridTracker and I’ll show those to you in the upcoming video.

Putting it all together.

There’s a Call Roster and the stations I'm looking for appear there. I click (single-click) on them and that starts the transmission.

When I send 73 and log the contact the QSO partners information will be in HRD Logbook. I won’t have to go back and download that later.

I have callsign lookup enabled in both HRD Logbook and GT. I'll explain why in the upcoming video.

It works very efficiently.

I can view PSK Reporter spots in the map too. This comes in handy and lets me know I’m getting out and how strong my signal is. It also shows me the propagation path.

Thank you!

I make the videos and post articles because I really enjoy Amateur Radio. After my stroke this has been a lifeline for me during the pandemic, so if you have any questions or comments please make them below. I’ll get to those quicker and others can learn by them too.

73,
Rich, K0PIR

Sources in order:

Download Ham Radio Deluxe (30 Free Trial)

Download WSJT-X

Downloading GridTracker

Ferrite Beads on Ebay

Previous posts in order:

NEW Log4OM 2 Logging Program Install and Initial Setup

WSJT-X and LOG4OM Tutorial Free and Easy!

GridTracker, WSJT-X and Log4OM