Project Specification and Outline for SAPJRadioScanningDB
1. Overview and Purpose
SAPJRadioScanningDB is a Python-based custom database application designed specifically for logging and organizing radio frequencies and related information. Traditional radio logging solutions often lack the customization required to cater to unique use cases like ultralight radio DXing, UHF band monitoring, and detailed frequency tracking. SPAPJRadioScanningDB addresses this by providing a tailored and flexible database solution that allows for easy storage, retrieval, and categorization of radio scanning data, including observed frequencies, user information, notes, and date of entry.
2. Objectives
· Customizable Fields: SAPJRadioScanningDB includes essential fields specific to radio logging needs while allowing for additional modifications as needed.
· User-Friendly Interface: A simple and intuitive interface for entering and searching logs.
· Efficient Data Retrieval: Quick retrieval and filtering of logged entries based on various criteria.
· Long-Term Usability: Scalable and maintainable solution to support long-term use without over-complication.
3. Scope
The scope of SAPJRadioScanningDB includes:
· Development of a local database to log and manage radio frequency data.
· Implementation of data entry fields relevant to radio monitoring and logging.
· Design of a simple GUI interface for data entry and search, if time and resources allow.
· Inclusion of export functionality for backups or data analysis.
4. Key Features and Functional Requirements
1. Data Entry Fields:
a. FREQ / USER: This field logs the frequency observed or, if applicable, the intended user (such as a broadcasting station, an amateur radio call sign, or an assumed user based on frequency).
b. DATE: The date when the frequency was logged, recorded in a standardized format.
c. NOTES: A free-text field to record any relevant information or observations about the entry, such as signal strength, language spoken, or location details.
d. LOGGED: A drop-down menu to categorize the logging status of the frequency entry. Options may include “Unconfirmed,” “Confirmed,” “Regular Listener,” and “Archived.”
2. User Interface:
a. Search and Filter Options: Enable users to search entries by frequency, date, user, or logging status.
b. Quick Entry and Update: Allow rapid entry of new observations and easy updates to existing records.
c. Sorting Options: Enable sorting by frequency, date, or user for streamlined review.
3. Data Management:
a. Database Storage: Local storage in a SQLite or similar lightweight database for ease of portability and quick access.
b. Data Backup and Export: Ability to export logs to formats like CSV or JSON for sharing, analysis, or archiving.
c. Data Integrity Checks: Ensure data validation and integrity to avoid duplicate entries or erroneous data.
4. Future Features (Optional):
a. Automated Date Input: Auto-fill the date field based on the current date for quick logging.
b. Enhanced Categorization: Additional options in the LOGGED dropdown for more nuanced frequency tracking.
c. Mobile/Remote Access: Allow the database to be accessed remotely or through a mobile interface.
5. Database Schema
Field - Type - Description
FREQ/USER - String - Frequency observed or user identifier (e.g., station name, call sign).
DATE - Date - Date the observation was made.
NOTES - Text - Any relevant information about the observation (signal, language, transmission details).
LOGGED Enum (String)
TYPE - Drop-down status (e.g., “Business", "Airband").
6. Development Timeline
1. Phase 1: Requirements Gathering and Design
a. Define data structure and core requirements (1 week).
2. Phase 2: Database Development
a. Implement core fields and develop the schema (1–2 weeks).
3. Phase 3: User Interface (if applicable)
a. Develop a basic interface for data entry, search, and filtering (2–3 weeks).
4. Phase 4: Testing and Validation
a. Run tests to ensure functionality and data integrity (1 week).
5. Phase 5: Deployment and Documentation
a. Finalize the application, prepare documentation, and deploy (1 week).
7. Conclusion
SPAJRadioScanningDB aims to provide a custom radio logging solution that addresses specific needs for flexible, scalable, and secure data management in radio scanning and monitoring.
Main Screen
If you press "space" while on an entry, it will set the last logged date to today and also highlight the entry in red, this helps with logging what you hear each day.
In V7, I have also added a button at the bottom of the main screen, to sort the records either by Frequency or Date. This makes entering loggings and reviewing these much easier.
Data Entry Screen
If you "right click" on an entry, this data entry screen will pop up, from here you can easily edit any fields and then save this.
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