Calling CQ on CW

How to Properly Call CQ on CW: Preparation, Etiquette, and Prosigns

Calling CQ in Morse code requires proper preparation and adherence to established operating procedures. Following standard etiquette ensures prompt replies and prevents interference with other stations.

1. Preparation Before Transmitting

• Band Selection: Choose an appropriate band based on current propagation conditions (consult MUF charts/predictions).
• Check Band Plans: Ensure your frequency falls within the designated CW segment according to the IARU band plan and local regulations.
• Listen First: Always listen carefully on the frequency for a few moments to confirm it is clear.

2. Frequency Availability Check (QRL?)

If the frequency appears clear, always ask if it is currently in use:

QRL? (send at least twice with a few seconds gap)

If the frequency is occupied, another operator will respond with R, Y, QRL, C, or R QSY. If so, move to another frequency.

3. Structuring the CQ Call

Once you find a clear frequency, initiate your CQ call following these core rules:

• Sending Speed: Never send faster than you can reliably copy.
• Keep it Short: Send a short, concise call, e.g., CQ CQ LZ2ZZZ LZ2ZZZ LZ2ZZZ AR. Multiple short CQ calls yield better results than one excessively long call.
• Ending Prosign: Always terminate a CQ call with AR (end of transmission). Never use K or AR K because there is no specific station to turn the transmission over to yet. Avoid redundant filler like PSE.

Split Frequency Operation

If you are listening on a different frequency, state your listening offset during every CQ call, for example: CQ CQ LZ2ZZZ LZ2ZZZ AR UP 5 or QSX 1822.

4. Understanding CW Prosigns

Prosigns (procedural signals) are combinations of two characters sent as a single merged symbol without inter-character spacing. Common examples include:

• AR (.-.-.) – End of transmission
• AS (.-...) – Wait / Stand by
• SK (...-.-) – End of contact / Final sign-off
• CL (-.-..-..) – Closing station

Note: Abbreviations such as BK and KN are not prosigns, as their individual letters are transmitted with standard spacing.

5. CQ DX and Directional Calls

To call general DX stations, use CQ DX. To target a specific geographic region or continent, include the target designator:

• CQ JA CQ JA I1ZZZ I1ZZZ AR (Calling Japan)
• CQ NA CQ NA I1ZZZ I1ZZZ AR (Calling North America)

Standard continental abbreviations: NA (North America), SA (South America), AF (Africa), AS (Asia), EU (Europe), OC (Oceania).

If a station outside your targeted area calls you, respond politely with a short report – you might be a needed DXCC entity for them.

Scheduled Direct Calls (Sked)

When calling a specific station for a pre-arranged schedule, finish with KN to indicate that you only want that specific station to respond:

DL0ZZZ DL0ZZZ SKED DE LZ2ZZZ KN