10. Four other user panels are included on the Inputs Screen. This one has the principal controls for generating area coverage displays.

Making ACE-HF area coverage displays is a two-step process. You first run VOAAREA predictions, and then create an ACE display to show the results. The top portion of this panel provides settings for SSNs, Bands and Times-of-Day. Area predictions may be made for any range of these parameters, and the different parameters may be combined into one display. You may also set antenna azimuths at either end of the circuit.

The most common animated display is one for 24 times-of-day, but a display at one favorite time animated for all ten bands is also instructive.

Starting with Version 2, you may now generate reversed "Reception Area" coverage displays centered on any receive location. Just set the receive location in the Inputs, Circuit panel and click on "Reversed" on this panel. This powerful feature is a great help in finding open-band areas from any distant location during high-pressure contest situations. You can prepare Reception Area predictions in advance and see at a glance when your favorite band opens to a distant land.

Most users take time to build a database of area coverage predictions. If you create monthly 24-hour predictions for each band, you only have to do so once a month. The predictions you make may then be used year after year until the sunspot number changes significantly. Although it takes time to build the database, PCs are wonderful things-they can run ACE-HF while you sleep!