VU3WMV · ham radio basics
ആദ്യമായി മൈക്ക് എടുത്താൽ എന്ത് പറയും? A QSO is a two-way contact between two amateur stations. Here is a simple order to follow on your first contact.
Step by step
The six steps
- Listen firstCheck that nobody is already talking on the frequency.
- Call CQ“CQ, CQ, CQ, this is” and your call sign. CQ is a general call to any station. Then wait for a reply.
- Answer by call signWhen someone replies, say their call sign, then yours.
- Exchange detailsYour name, your location (QTH) and a signal report.
- Use phoneticsIf the signal is weak or unclear, say each letter with a phonetic word.
- Close politelyThank them and say 73, which means best regards.
Transmit only if you hold a valid licence, and only on the frequencies and power levels your licence allows.
Example
A short example contact
The call signs below are made up, for illustration only.
You: CQ, CQ, CQ, this is VU3WMV, calling CQ, over.
Them: VU3WMV, this is VU3XYZ, over.
You: VU3XYZ, this is VU3WMV. My name is Ramkumar, my QTH is Kerala. You are 5 9. Over.
Them: VU3WMV, thanks. You are 5 9 here too. 73.
You: Thanks, 73. VU3XYZ, this is VU3WMV, clear.
Them: VU3WMV, this is VU3XYZ, over.
You: VU3XYZ, this is VU3WMV. My name is Ramkumar, my QTH is Kerala. You are 5 9. Over.
Them: VU3WMV, thanks. You are 5 9 here too. 73.
You: Thanks, 73. VU3XYZ, this is VU3WMV, clear.
Signal report
What “5 9” means on voice
| Part | Measures | Scale |
|---|---|---|
| R | Readability | 1 to 5. 5 is perfectly readable. |
| S | Signal strength | 1 to 9. 9 is very strong. |
So “5 9” means clear and strong. Be honest with your reports.
Phonetics
Your call sign, letter by letter
| Character | Say |
|---|---|
| V | Victor |
| U | Uniform |
| 3 | Three |
| W | Whiskey |
| M | Mike |
| V | Victor |
Words you will hear
Quick glossary
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| QSO | A two-way contact between stations |
| CQ | A general call to any station |
| QTH | Your location |
| 73 | Best regards |
| Over | I have finished speaking and am waiting for your reply |
Made for the Captain.Ramkumar reel series. Habits differ a little between nets, repeaters and bands, so listen to how local operators do it.