Progress in semi-empirical modelling of main-sequence stellar chromospheres

We present the results of a long term research programme on the outer atmospheres of main-sequence dwarfs. Combining NLTE-radiation transfer calculations with high resolution spectroscopic observations have led to significant progress in understanding chromospheric physical properties and spectral signatures. We emphasize that in order to unravel the extremely complex physics of the outer atmosphere and its energy source, magnetic field and acoustic wave dissipation, one must isolate the influence of all stellar parameters.