I'm interested in how others approach documenting their radio frequencies and whether my workflow is still considered a good practice today.
For each frequency, I've traditionally logged pretty much everything I can think of, including:
I've always liked having a central repository that is independent of any particular radio, especially when changing radios or comparing information gathered over many years. On the other hand, it does mean maintaining the same information in multiple places.
Another thing I've been thinking about is whether it's worth maintaining detailed records for systems and users that haven't changed in years? Part of me thinks the historical information, notes, and logging dates are valuable. The other part thinks that if a frequency has been stable for 10+ years, perhaps I'm creating work for little practical benefit.
So I'm curious, what details do you document for each frequency, how do you store it, and do you still maintain detailed records for users and frequencies that rarely change?
I'd be interested to hear what workflows people have settled on and whether anyone has found a better approach than the "master spreadsheet/database + radio programming software" method.
For each frequency, I've traditionally logged pretty much everything I can think of, including:
- Frequency
- User / organisation
- TX and RX sites
- CTCSS / DCS tones / NAC codes (where applicable)
- Mode (FM, P25, DMR, etc.)
- Notes on usage
- Location where it was logged
- Date and time logged
- Signal strength / reception notes
I've always liked having a central repository that is independent of any particular radio, especially when changing radios or comparing information gathered over many years. On the other hand, it does mean maintaining the same information in multiple places.
Another thing I've been thinking about is whether it's worth maintaining detailed records for systems and users that haven't changed in years? Part of me thinks the historical information, notes, and logging dates are valuable. The other part thinks that if a frequency has been stable for 10+ years, perhaps I'm creating work for little practical benefit.
So I'm curious, what details do you document for each frequency, how do you store it, and do you still maintain detailed records for users and frequencies that rarely change?
I'd be interested to hear what workflows people have settled on and whether anyone has found a better approach than the "master spreadsheet/database + radio programming software" method.
