Common Ham Radio Q Signals

Ham Radio For Dummies

Hams use three-letter Q signals on every mode and even in face-to-face conversation. Here are the Q signals most commonly used in day-to-day operation. Each signal can be a question or an answer, as shown in the Meaning column. A complete list of ham radio Q signals, including those used on nets and repeaters, is available from the AC6V website.

Q Signal	Meaning
QRL	Is the frequency busy? The frequency is busy. Please do not interfere.
QRM	Abbreviation for interference from other signals.
QRN	Abbreviation for interference from natural or human-made static.
QRO	Shall I increase power? Increase power.
QRP	Shall I decrease power? Decrease power.
QRQ	Shall I send faster? Send faster (__words per minute [wpm]).
QRS	Shall I send more slowly? Send more slowly (__wpm).
QRT	Shall I stop sending or transmitting? Stop sending or transmitting.
QRU	Have you anything more for me? I have nothing more for you.
QRV	Are you ready? I am ready.
QRX	Stand by.
QRZ	Who is calling me?
QSB	Abbreviation for signal fading.
QSL	Did you receive and understand? Received and understood.
QSO	Abbreviation for a contact.
QST	General call preceding a message addressed to all amateurs.
QSX	I am listening on ___ kHz.
QSY	Change to transmission on another frequency (or to ___ kHz).
QTH	What is your location? My location is ____.

About This Article

About the book author:

H. Ward Silver has the experience of a 20-year career as an electrical engineer developing instrumentation and medical electronics. He also spent 8 years in broadcasting, both programming and engineering. In 2000 he turned to teaching and writing as a second career. He is a contributing editor to the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) and author of the popular “Hands-On Radio” column in QST magazine every month. He is the author of the ARRL’s Amateur Radio license study guides and numerous other articles. He developed the ARRL’s online courses, “Antenna Design and Construction,” “Analog Electronics,” and “Digital Electronics.” Along with his comedic alter-ego, Dr Beldar, Ward is a sought-after speaker and lecturer among “hams.” When not in front of a computer screen, you will find Ward working on his mandolin technique and compositions.