Configuring fldigi for RSGB data contests

I use fldigi for RSGB data contests (RTTY and PSK modes). In this article I describe how I have configured 12 macro buttons for efficient contest operation.

Here is a screen shot of the 12 buttons:


They are divided into three groups. The first four buttons, teal coloured, are for "Run" mode (a.k.a. "Fox" mode), i.e. for calling CQ. The next four buttons, in brown, are for "Search & Pounce" mode (a.k.a."Hound" mode), i.e. when replying to a CQ. The final four buttons, dark blue, are seldom used in contesting but enable free text to be sent.

Here are each of the button definitions:

CQ - obviously used to send a CQ call

<TX>
CQ RSGB de <MYCALL> <MYCALL> CQ
<RX>

QRZ? - to send a QRZ? if needed 

<TX>
QRZ? QRZ? de <MYCALL> <MYCALL> k
<RX>

Exchange - sends RST signal report and the serial number three times, bracketed by the other party's callsign

<TX>
<CALL> <MYRST> <CNTR> <CNTR> <CNTR> <CALL>
<RX>

TU Log - sends a "thank you" to end the current QSO followed by "QRZ?" to invite the next one. Enters the current QSO in the log, and increments the serial number.

<TX>
<CALL> TU QRZ? <MYCALL>
<RX>
<LOG>
<INCR>

ANS - Answers a CQ

<TX>
<CALL> de <MYCALL> <MYCALL>
<RX>

Exchange - sends a "thank you", RST and serial number

<TX>
<CALL> TU <MYRST> <CNTR> <CNTR> <CNTR> <MYCALL>
<RX>

Log - logs the QSO, and increments the serial number (no transmission needed)

<LOG><INCR>

AGN? - asks for a repeat 

<TX>
AGN? AGN? de <MYCALL>
<RX>

T/R - simply toggles between transmit and receive, possibly in order to send some custom text

 <TX/RX>

Tx >> - transmits the text buffer, and stays in transmit for further text entry

<TX>

Rx || - switch to receive

<RX>

Tx >| - transmits the text buffer, ends the over, and switches to receive

<TX>
 de <MYCALL> k
<RX>

 

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