What does CQ DX mean?
Fundamentals of DXing: Defining DX, Entity Concepts, and Calling CQ DX
When an operator aims to contact distant or rare stations, they utilize the directed call „CQ DX“. The pursuit of tracking and contacting distant or rare stations is known as DXing.
1. What Constitutes a „DX“ Station?
The definition of DX varies depending on the operating frequency spectrum:
- On HF Bands (Shortwave): DX refers to a station on another continent or a rare „entity“ with minimal amateur radio activity (e.g., Mount Athos or the Sovereign Military Order of Malta in Europe).
- On VHF/UHF/Microwave: DX generally applies to any contact over approximately 300 km (180 miles), even within the same country.
Understanding „Radio Entities“ (DXCC Entities):
A radio entity is a distinct geographical area assigned its own callsign prefix for award and contest scoring purposes, regardless of political sovereignty:
A radio entity is a distinct geographical area assigned its own callsign prefix for award and contest scoring purposes, regardless of political sovereignty:
- UN Headquarters (4U) holds its own prefix despite being geographically inside the USA.
- Aruba (P4) is a Dutch territory, but located on a different continent with its own distinct prefix.
2. Calling „CQ DX“ and Directional Calls
You can narrow down your intended target region by specifying geographical constraints during your CQ call:
CQ DX outside Europe, this is LZ2ZZZ...
3. DX Operating Etiquette and Local Station Courtesy
Operating DX requires a balance between maximum efficiency and proper operating courtesy:
| Scenario | Recommended DX Etiquette |
|---|---|
| Local Station Responds | Always maintain politeness. The caller might be a beginner for whom your station is a new country or entity. Complete a quick exchange rather than rejecting them abruptly. |
| Exchange Efficiency | During short propagation openings, concise exchanges (callsign and signal report only) are preferred to allow maximum stations to complete contacts. |
