Club President Eric Stoddart, K8ERS, presented an engaging and informative session titled ‘What Are QSL Cards and What Are the Digital Alternatives?’ The session provided an in-depth look at the tradition of QSL cards in amateur radio, their historical significance, and their role in confirming contacts between operators worldwide. Attendees learned the step-by-step process of sending and receiving physical QSL cards, including proper formatting, addressing, and the use of QSL bureaus to facilitate international exchanges.
In addition to traditional QSL cards, the session explored modern digital alternatives such as Logbook of The World (LoTW), eQSL, and other online confirmation platforms. Eric demonstrated how these digital methods streamline the QSL process, reduce costs, and enhance convenience while maintaining the integrity of verified contacts. Attendees were guided through account setup, log uploads, and best practices for maximizing confirmation rates.
The session concluded with examples of physical QSL cards, showcasing a variety of designs from different countries, clubs, and special event stations. These examples highlighted the creativity and personal touch that traditional QSL cards bring to amateur radio, reinforcing their value even in the digital age.
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