08 · DX Cluster

Connecting to the cluster, spot filters, and DX alerts

What is the DX Cluster?

The DX Cluster is a worldwide network of nodes that distributes spots in real time: announcements of rare or interesting stations heard by radio amateurs around the world. Each spot shows the frequency, callsign, and time of the DX.

Showing the DX Cluster Panel

Enable the panel from View → DX Cluster (checkable item) or with the Show/Hide DX Cluster button in the top toolbar. Once visible, connect with Cluster → Connect.

DX Cluster panel with real-time spot list

Connection Settings

ParameterDescriptionExample
ServerCluster node addressdxc.ea4ure.amsat.es
PortTelnet port of the cluster7300
CallsignYour callsign for loginEA5YC

Recommended cluster nodes

Choosing a node Use a geographically close node for lower latency. If you are interested in CW DX, the Reverse Beacon Network (RBN) offers very reliable automated spots.

The Spot Table

Each spot shows:

ColumnDescription
TimeUTC time of the spot
DXCallsign of the DX station
FrequencyFrequency in kHz
BandAmateur band
ModeEmission mode (if specified)
SpotterCallsign that posted the spot
CommentSpotter's free text
DXCCDXCC entity of the DX (calculated by RadioLog)
StatusWorked/confirmed/new (based on your logbook)

Spot Status

RadioLog compares each spot against your logbook and marks it with a symbol:

SymbolStatusMeaning
NewNever contacted — new entity for you
WorkedAlready contacted, but no QSL/LoTW confirmation yet
ConfirmedYou have a QSL or LoTW confirmation on that band/mode
NormalNo special relation to your logbook
spots colour-coded by DXCC status in the logbook

Spot Filters

The cluster panel toolbar includes two filters:

From Cluster to Radio

With CAT connected, double-click any spot in the cluster to tune the radio automatically to the DX frequency. RadioLog changes VFO-A frequency and the corresponding mode.

Sending Spots to the Cluster

If you hear a DX station you can post a spot from RadioLog:

  1. Enter the DX callsign and frequency in the spot panel
  2. Add an optional comment
  3. Click Send spot