The development of HRD v6.0 is well
disputed on QRZ.com with many voices moaning that the “free” software is now a
paid up version. I on the other hand feel it’s a justified cost. Every time I
switch on the radio I use HRD. Its been my constant companion now for 5 years.
So while the dispute carries on, Let me
give you the low down on the updated version.
On the website the new set of features
includes more Cluster filtering a new awards section, Added QSX spots for some
radios, QSL and address printing, more rotator support and some excellent new
features in DM780.
From the beginning there is lot of improvement
for me. I use the DX cluster a lot, I also own a radio which has had some new
support features added. I already have played with the new filters on the
Cluster and they work a treat. The cluster now reflects DXCC I want, and when
its spotted from my continent. So now I
wont see Spots for VK, ZL from Hong Kong, instead I will see them from Europe.
Another big bonus’s here is the strip
printing facility that allows you to print labels that get affixed to the QSL
cards. You can either choose address
(for direct) or QSO details etc. At the time of writing I can confirm there is
a bug with this, but a fix will be released in the next version.
The QSX spots initially caused me an issue
on my FT2000. When adding a call into the log book the radio would switch
between VFO A & B. not great, but again a support call and within 5 minutes it was resolved by deselecting 3
tick boxes.
When I updated the software, it was a
seamless, almost boring exercise. The screens looked exactly how they did
before. But the first thing I noticed was how much quicker the software loaded.
When my configuration starts it opens the log book, rotator controller all at
the same time and now it opens super quick, connects and is ready within a very
short space of time.
So would I recommend the V6.0 ? yes I
would. I always support companies / software that I use on a regular
basis. The 2 support calls I placed I
had instant answers, in very little time.
And that’s exactly what I want from a company that sell the product with
support. I know the debate still rages
on other sites, but without our support the development will stall and that is
to the detriment to us all.
