The advent of electronic QSL cards marked a significant shift in the way amateur radio operators confirm their on-air contacts. Traditionally, these confirmations were done through paper QSL cards, which were physically mailed to the recipient. However, with the rise of digital technology, electronic QSL cards have become increasingly popular due to their convenience and efficiency.

Electronic QSL cards, or eQSLs, allow operators to confirm contacts almost instantaneously, eliminating the delays and costs associated with traditional mail. Platforms like eQSL.cc Link: eQSL.cc and Logbook of The World (LoTW) Link: Logbook of The World have revolutionized the QSL process by providing online databases where operators can upload and verify their contacts. These platforms not only streamline the process but also offer additional features such as awards and certificates for confirmed contacts, enhancing the overall experience for operators.

For instance, eQSL.cc provides a user-friendly interface where operators can design their own electronic QSL cards, reflecting their personality and station details. The platform supports the exchange of eQSLs with operators worldwide, making it easier to confirm contacts across different continents and time zones. On the other hand, Logbook of The World, managed by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), offers a highly secure system for QSL verification, which is particularly valued by operators participating in contests and award programs.

Here are some examples of electronic QSL card systems:

QRZ and eQSL: These platforms allow for the electronic exchange of QSLs in the form of JPEG or GIF images. These images can be printed as cards on the recipient’s local printer or displayed on a computer monitor. Many logging programs have direct electronic interfaces to transmit QSO details in real-time into the eQSL.cc database. CQ Amateur Radio magazine began accepting electronic QSLs from eQSL.cc for its award programs in January 2009 [ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QSL_card
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ARRL’s Logbook of The World (LoTW): This system allows confirmations to be submitted electronically for the ARRL’s DX Century Club. It enables DXCC status to be automatically updated as new logs come in. However, it does not have the ability to create pictorial QSL cards that can be printed out for collecting [ https://www.electronics-notes.com/articles/ham_radio/qsl-cards/electronic-eqsls.php
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RadioQTH QSL Card Creator: This web page allows users to create QSL cards in the form of a PDF document that can be printed on lightweight card stock. The cards are printed in a standard size of 5.5 inches wide by 3.5 inches high, which is the standard size for a QSL card. Users have the option of printing a single card or up to four cards per page [ https://www.radioqth.net/qslcards
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eQSL: eQSL is a free online service for radio amateurs that allows the exchange of electronic QSL cards. Users can design their own QSL cards from the My eQSL Design menu option. The cards are sent electronically to the recipient’s inbox and can be viewed, reciprocated, or matched. eQSL offers both free and paid options, with additional features available for those who make a donation [ https://www.essexham.co.uk/eqsl-basics
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These are just a few examples of electronic QSL card systems available to amateur radio operators. Each system has its own features and capabilities, so operators can choose the one that best suits their needs and preferences.

The move towards electronic QSL cards represents an evolution in amateur radio communication, aligning with modern technological advancements while preserving the essential tradition of confirming on-air contacts. Whether for convenience, efficiency, or environmental reasons, electronic QSL cards are here to stay, offering a contemporary solution for a long-standing practice in amateur radio.