How to Install and Use eQSL Creator by PA4R

Did you know that over 1.5 million ham radio operators worldwide still rely on QSL cards to confirm contacts, even in our digital age? As an amateur radio enthusiast, you’ve likely spent hours perfecting your station—but confirming those connections doesn’t have to be a chore. That’s where eQSL cards come in: a fast, eco-friendly way to log your QSOs digitally. In this guide, you’ll learn how to use the free eQSL Creator tool by PA4R (Ham Tools) to send polished eQSL cards in just nine steps, saving time while still honoring the tradition of QSL exchange.

Why Use eQSL Cards and Ham Tools?

Traditional paper QSL cards are a cherished part of ham radio culture—but printing, labeling, and mailing them adds up fast, often costing a dollar or more per contact once postage is included. eQSL cards, sent via email or online platforms, eliminate that cost while preserving the fun of exchanging memorable confirmations.

Ham Tools by PA4R streamlines this workflow with its eQSL Creator module. It can read ADIF files, pull data from QRZ, and automatically generate and send eQSL cards based on your custom template. If you’re trying to keep your log up to date without spending weekends filling out cards, this is the kind of automation you want in your shack.

Step-by-Step Guide to Sending eQSL Cards

Ready to get started? Below is a step-by-step walkthrough to install, configure, and use eQSL Creator so you can go from raw log entries to sent eQSLs in one smooth flow.

Setting Up Your Software and Templates

First, note that eQSL Creator is no longer available on the original Ham Tools website maintained by PA4R. Fortunately, a copy is available here: Download HamTools356.zip. Extract the archive and run “QSL Creator Setup 356 MSI” to install the software.

Once installed, open eQSL Creator and go to Settings. Switch the logging system to use and process ADIF files directly—this allows seamless log imports from QRZ and most modern logging programs. Save your changes, close the app, and reopen it so the new settings take effect. Disclaimer: I am not responsible for any issues, damages, or liabilities arising from the use of this software—download and use it at your own risk.

Next, create a custom eQSL card template. Under Settings > Images, locate the template folder. Use a free tool like Photopea (a browser-based Photoshop alternative) to design your card. Include your callsign, grid, QSO fields, and maybe a station photo or logo. Export it as a JPEG and save it in the template folder. A clean, readable design makes your eQSLs look professional and memorable.

Configuring Email and Syncing with QRZ

Now it’s time to configure email delivery. In Settings, open the SMTP configuration section. This is where you enter the details for the mail server that will send your eQSLs. Historically, many operators used Gmail with:

• Server: smtp.gmail.com
• Port: 587
• Encryption: STARTTLS/SSL

After entering your credentials, send a test email—if everything is correct, the status should turn green and confirm a successful connection.

For extra convenience, you can enable QRZ synchronization (requires a paid QRZ subscription). In eQSL Creator, open the QRZ settings, enter your callsign and QRZ password, and test the connection. Once configured, the software can pull email addresses and QSO data directly from QRZ, reducing manual data entry and ensuring your eQSLs go to the correct operators.

Sending and Verifying Your eQSL Cards

With your template and SMTP settings ready, it’s time to send cards. Start by exporting your ADIF log from QRZ—either your entire logbook or a filtered subset (for example, only new QSOs since your last eQSL run). Download the ADIF file to your computer.

In eQSL Creator, select this ADIF file as your input. The software will parse it, match QSOs to callsigns and email addresses (including those from QRZ sync), and generate eQSL images using your template. Once you’re satisfied with the preview and settings, click send. eQSL Creator will step through the list and email each operator a personalized card.

When the process completes, verify delivery by checking your email account’s Sent folder and watching for bounce or error messages. If some addresses fail, review the SMTP configuration or correct any mistyped emails, then resend for those specific QSOs.

Conclusion: Simplify and Modernize Your QSL Workflow

Using Ham Tools eQSL Creator by PA4R turns QSL card confirmation from a tedious chore into a streamlined, mostly automated process. You’ve seen how to install the software, configure ADIF support, build a custom card template, set up SMTP, optionally sync QRZ, and send batches of eQSLs in just a few steps.

The result: you save money, save time, and still keep the spirit of ham radio alive with attractive QSL confirmations—just in a digital format that fits modern operating habits.

Ready to confirm your next QSO? Fire up eQSL Creator, load your latest ADIF, and start sending eQSLs to the operators who’ve made your logbook possible. How will you customize your next eQSL design to stand out in their inbox?