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Manager - N2MG
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Survey Question

Question

Do you operate QRP?

Results (1978 answers)

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Survey Comments

QRO is easy. Try QRP

I've worked qro & qrp. Most contacts are easily made using 100w+. Qrp is far more of a challenge and far more rewarding when you make that contact. The bonus is that you can work QRP from just about anywhere with not a lot of kit. Try it before you dismiss it. You could even enjoy it. M0SSO
Posted by M0SSO on 2005-05-08

QRP as a Concept

I thought once about using QRP for VHF DX'ing but, then I figured it would just be more fun to hit myself in the head with a hammer!
Posted by WA6BFH on 2005-03-25

qrp

Is QRP technically 5 w or lower or 10w or lower? I saw an article that is was 10W or less and did not think it was correct.
Posted by KG4RGN on 2005-03-02

Never brought me to air

I have struggled with QRP for over four years and never brought me to air. I have changed my shack to all QRO and I am enjoying Dxing + Digital + lot of hamming!

De VU3SPQ
Posted by VU3SPQ on 2005-02-26

Who cares

Does it really matter? its important just to be active, I operate both qro and qrp from time to time whenever it suits me
Charles
Posted by EI5FK on 2005-02-23

Yes on digital modes

At home I have to be careful of TVI. So for me QRP is the point at which I can make a contact and not cause problems. I keep power here under 10watts max at all times. Mostly 5 or less. The only mode I xmit on here is psk31 and maby CW if I am brave. These are the only real modes you can actually make a contact on with power levels that low and indoor antennas.
Posted by KE1MB on 2005-02-22

Just try it!

It's just a few dB's...grab the knob and turn down the power. See who notices? No change? Turn it down some more...be careful your close to getting hooked :). 73 Scott
Posted by N0AR on 2005-02-22

100 watts

100 watts IS QRP on six-meters!
Posted by SWANMAN on 2005-02-18

QRP as a Concept

I think that even the ‘concept’ of QRP is pretty ambiguous, and certainly any such endeavor is.

Look at it this way,

If I use 50 milliWatts, is this QRP?

If I use .5 Watts, is this QRP?

If I use 5 Watts, is this QRP?

In each example I have increased the power by a factor of 10 decibels. Now 10 dB’s is a pretty big jump in power! Now most folks will say that my first example is a good case for QRP, and maybe my 2nd as well. Is my 3rd? What if I go up another 10 dB’s?

I work mostly VHF “weak signal” stuff; and thusly run as much power as I can. My object is to make the contact, and maybe afterwards refine the path study. If I started with 50 milliWatts, my conclusion might be that working DX on VHF or above is simply not possible!

Of course I do recall the comment of a friend. He said that working QRP is like hitting yourself in the head with a hammer because, it feels so good when you stop!

Posted by WA6BFH on 2005-02-17

QRP

Yes, I operate QRP. My HT only puts out 5 watts. But, I am up for the challenges of QRP.
Posted by EHAM_GUEST_003 on 2005-02-16

QRP portable or backyard ops

After some experimenting with an old ICOM luggable portable station running low power and deciding I would NOT be happy with just CW QRP like some of the homebrew and elecraft rigs, I bought a "fire sale" ICOM 703 last summer. With the built in tuner and hot receiver it's a fantastic "backpack" QRP rig ... with a couple known needed fixes on the nonplus unit that any ham with average technical savy can make, it has turned out to be a smart buy for me. I made numerous picnic table SSB Qs last Aug-Oct and have used it with some success as a 10 watt mobile (the 703 transmits at 5 watts with 11-12v gel cell true QRP operation but hooked up to a car or home 13.8V supply it will transmit 10watts). I have also used it working SSB DX on my 3 el triband beam and made some 60 m and psk31 base QSOs with it. I now have a YO YO portable antenna and am looking forward to warmer weather this spring to try it from a few more portable and picnic table operations.
Yes, my base station is an ICOM 746 and as needed a KW. The 703 is my play rig but with one coax swap I can use it on nice days from my backyard deck to my tribander - I would not bother basement shack hamming on those MN summer "nicest days of the year" as it's gets me on the air in the summer.
Long live both QRP and QRO when it's needed, but more than ever long live HF hamming and all the variations it entails to meet and communicate.
73s K0VH
Posted by K0VH on 2005-02-13

Two Stations

I have two shacks in my home one is a Yaesu 736R operating in 50, 144, 222 and 432. All at 100 watts or better. The other is a little QRP station set up on a small computer desk. It is an FT-817 powered by a gel-cell fed into a 4 element dual band log periodic with a small rotator and a 6 meter KB6KQ loop inside the attic. It works well. I enjoy it for quiet operating when the additional noise is disturbing to my YLs computer work (very rare, my YL is KC2HWA).
Posted by N2WEC on 2005-02-12

90%

QRP 10 and 12 meter on my FT817 and once in a while on a vintage 11 meter Sonar FS 2340, both through the ultra cheapo A99 Solaron. I have operated five watts all over the planet and couldn't be happier. The QRP challenge is addictive and at least for me, defines the hobby.
Posted by AG4SD on 2005-02-12

My vote won't be popular, but...

I tried QRP. When you can hear everybody else but nobody can hear you, the fun goes away real fast.

For those that like this kind of self torture, go for it. Have fun. If I hear you I'll try to answer.

Posted by AD7DB on 2005-02-11

QRP

I have been doing only QRP for the last
5 years,and find it very exciting to work a new country or new county with less than 5 watts and simple antenna's. It is of course much easier to work DXCC or WAS with 1Kw and a great antenna, but what kind of a challange is that?
Mark-K1MLP
Posted by K1MLP on 2005-02-11

QRP

I have been doing only QRP for the last
5 years,and find it very exciting to work a new country or new county with less than 5 watts and simple antenna's. It is of course much easier to work DXCC or WAS with 1Kw and a great antenna, but what kind of a challange is that?
Mark-K1MLP
Posted by K1MLP on 2005-02-11

QRP

The officially recognized limits in the QRP community is 10 watts pep and under for SSB and 5 watts and under on CW and other modes such as RTTY and PSK31.
Posted by WA4DOU on 2005-02-11

Everything has it's place

I have been licensed for nearly 20 years, and much of that time has been on VHF & UHF, where QRP operating with repeaters and decent home-built antennas have been a way of life.

On the crowded lower HF bands, it is almost impossible with phone to be heard above the 1KW+ italians and eastern europeans (no insult intended), but on the higher bands 15, 12, 10, when the band is open I often work stateside with 10W or less (got 5/5 on 2W last week on 15).

What's the real difference? It's easy to overlook the fact that the difference between 1W and 1KW is 30dB - 5 s-points. On a quiet open band, who's gonna notice? Just make suire you're using something better than wet string to readiate with!
Posted by G7CNF on 2005-02-11

QRP

This is one of those issues where most of the comments are subjective, but that's okay as it can be fun to read them up to a point. The issue of QRP always reminds me of when I was getting started in the 1970s, and from time to time there would be an article for new hams in QST written by some graybeard Lord of Newington A1 op type who had been licensed since before they had licenses. These articles would always get around to power (usually sooner than later) and the mantra was always less is more. You never need an amp they'd write; 100 w. is more than enough; work the world with 10 no problem blah blah. Then there'd always be a DX test or Sweepstakes report every year with shack photos of ARRL staffers and I'd always happen to notice a SB220 sitting there and get a slightly uneasy feeling that the ARRL folks were telling us to do one thing while going on another path themselves. I always suspected that less is more business was bunk. I wanted an amp from day one. Now I have one and life is good. Some people have Hummers; I have an amp. And I'm getting another one as soon as I can get the cash together.
Posted by K5UJ on 2005-02-11

QRP

This is one of those issues where most of the comments are subjective, but that's okay as it can be fun to read them up to a point. The issue of QRP always reminds me of when I was getting started in the 1970s, and from time to time there would be an article for new hams in QST written by some graybeard Lord of Newington A1 op type who had been licensed since before they had licenses. These articles would always get around to power (usually sooner than later) and the mantra was always less is more. You never need an amp they'd write; 100 w. is more than enough; work the world with 10 no problem blah blah. Then there'd always be a DX test or Sweepstakes report every year with shack photos of ARRL staffers and I'd always happen to notice a SB220 sitting there and get a slightly uneasy feeling that the ARRL folks were telling us to do one thing while going on another path themselves. I always suspected that less is more business was bunk. I wanted an amp from day one. Now I have one and life is good. Some people have Hummers; I have an amp. And I'm getting another one as soon as I can get the cash together.
Posted by K5UJ on 2005-02-11

QRP

I have been a licensed amateur for over 37 years. Much of my experience is VHF/UHF for contests but I also moderately operate on the HF bands. QRP works well on VHF/UHF and also well on the lesser used WARC HF bands. It is great for ragchewing at low power and also experimenting with propagation, antennas, feedline and receiver sensitivity. I have never owned an HF linear amplifier. Again, I would rather experiment with improvement to antennas and feedline.

Bob - WB5YYX
Posted by WB5YYX on 2005-02-11

HUH ?

I like to ride my bicycle 50 miles to work in the rain (uphill).

I cook over a campfire daily.

The bathroom is a hole in the ground.

I make electricity by rubbing the cat.

QRP is a lifestyle.

KB8ELK
Posted by KB8ELK on 2005-02-11

PSK - QRP is just fun

Homebrew and QRP, thats the fun for me. No greater pleasure than building it yourself and working the world with e few watts on PSK31. And Yes, PSK is really the greatest QRP mode, I already worked 8000 miles with 2 watt pep. And yes, I do have QRO but if the band is closed, that won't work also. you wont work PSK DX on a closed band, but theres still will be PSK (OK, maybe not QRP) activity on that band. Wonder why, because PSK rocks!
My absolute favourate: SmallWonderLabs PSK20! Second : Elecraft KX1
73 de PE1NPG
Posted by PE1NPG on 2005-02-10

QRO? QRP?

I worked an American soldier from Mosul Irak. With PSK 2 watts PEP from my motorhome on holiday in Belgium august last year. He did not understand why so many european PSK stations worked QRP when they have QRO available. I tried to explain the fun, but I don't think he got the message. Why work QRO with a factory set, when homebrew QRP works really well!
Posted by PE1NPG on 2005-02-10

QRP<>QRO

Both work fine, but only if your antenna system is OK.
QRO with a bad antenna = QRP with a good antenna!
Posted by PE1NPG on 2005-02-10

Define QRP! LOL!

As I recall from my long ago novice days, QRP was supposed to be like 10 watts or less.

However, I've heard it defined as less than 1 watt, to 100 watts. The latter being somewhat tongue in cheek by those who prefer 1000+ watts.

Seriously, what exactly is the definition of QRP, "officially"?
Posted by KA9FLX on 2005-02-10

Qrp:

I was taught the power outputs for qrp were less than one watt up to five watts output.

73, John
Posted by WR8D on 2005-02-10

QRP

I am brand new to HAM radio, QRP (and related homebrew equipment) is one of the things that attracted me.
Posted by KE5DTI on 2005-02-10

Apartment dweller

Since I only have a balcony to put things on,
I have to keep the power low.
If I would put out the german legal limit (750W),
all TVs in the surrounding flats would keel over.
Plus, QRP means no complaints from the neighbors, no RFI, no fat power supplies and home brewing is easier too.


Regards
DD3EO

Posted by DD3EO on 2005-02-10

To: WB4M

"I've heard this complaint before, but what you fail to realize is that many times, especially on 10 meters, I get 599 reports while sending QRP. Matter of fact, I receive many different RSTs. Low power output does not necessarily equal weak signals on the RECV end. Just as running 1kw does not guarantee you a 59+ signal on the other end.
Most QRP'ers develop the best antenna system they can and make the most of their low power output levels. If you don't like QRP, then don't bother answering a XXXXX/QRP station calling CQ. I'd hate for you to strain yourself. Always someone has to inject negativity into just about any subject."
-----------------------------------------

I'd like you to go back and read my entire post and find one comment that comes close to "negative".

Hear are some realities about QRP as I see it:

1. Unless you've got really decent antennas, and I don't mean a random wire strung 20ft off the ground, you're not going to get heard on a regular basis and any 599 report you receive from anyone other than the guy across town is just not true.

2. When 10m is open a flea fart will get a 599 report. Try it on 160 or 80.

3. I was always under the impression that operating awards were for operator skill. Which operator deserves the award and shows more operator skill, the one who digs the weak signal out of S9 QRN, or the one who builds a antenna system good enough to be heard with 5W on a regular basis? If its the former then DXCC/QRP ought to apply to QSO's where BOTH stations are running 5W or less. If it's the later then the award needs to have its name changed to "The Station and Antenna Building Award".


I have nothing against QRP and QRP operators.

I will always answer a CQ put out by a QRP station because it's a good way to check how MY station, receiver, antenna are doing.
Knock yourself out and enjoy the hobby.
Posted by AC0H on 2005-02-10

QRP Fun

I enjoy operating QRP, but don't make a
religion out of it. I enjoy casual
operating and enjoy QSOs with anyone;
QRP, boat anchor enthusiast, traffic
handlers, and so on.

I think the operating events sponsored by
the various QRP organizations are some
of the most imaginative in Amateur Radio
today.

Events from the Adventure Radio Society,
(http://arsqrp.com), like the 'Spartan
Sprints' and the 'Flight of the Bumblebees'.
Or the 'Run for the Bacon' by the Flying
Pigs QRP Club, 'Freeze Your Butt Off Field
Day', '80M Straight Key Sprint' by the
North American QRP CW Club, the New Jersey
QRP 'Homebrewer Sprint', etc.

And we're so lucky today to have excellent
kits available, like those from Elecraft,
Wilderness Radio, Small Wonder Labs,
KD1JV, AmQRP, Ten-Tec TKITs, etc. If
anyone has never had the experience of
using on the air a transmitter, receiver,
or transceiver that you put together
and debugged yourself, it really is one
of the most unique experiences in Amateur
Radio.

And it gets even better when you take
your creation out in the field and operate
from your tent, several miles from the
nearest road, powered from a small gel
cell battery or a pack of AA's. Radiating
from a tv twinlead-fed cf zepp or end fed
half wave or "88", suspended from the
ponderosas.

I have a few notes on my QRP equipment
at

www.geocities.com/scottamcmullen/w5ese

73
Scott W5ESE
Posted by W5ESE on 2005-02-09

PSK31

PSK 31 enjoys no advantage over cw contrary to what those who advocate for it say, in theory perhaps, in reality no. The fact is that it is not difficult to work the world with either mode when propagation is favorable. However, lets not make a fetish out of qrp. It has its place, so does qro. You're not going to push the envelope of what can be done with low power. You're not going to exploit the Honor Roll on 160 meters with qrp and same with moon bounce (EME).
Posted by WA4DOU on 2005-02-09

Boatanchor QRP

This may be a little off the beaten path, but I own a fully functional Galvin Mfg. BC611F which is a 1943 World War II handie talkie. It transmits AM at well under 1 watt on 3885 KHz. On winter evenings from my front yard I have worked into Michigan, Iowa and even Tennessee. Believe me, when I actually make a contact with this thing, it is a hoot!
Posted by KK9H on 2005-02-08

What about PSK31 QRP?


With all of this talk about proper QRP levels for the various modes, what about QRP for PSK31? It is very easy to work the world with 5 watts on PSK31 compared to CW or SSB at the same power level, so I don't consider this to be a QRP challenge.

Given that a PSK31 signal has a bandwidth about 1/10 of a CW signal, how about QRP PSK31 at 500 mW?

73, Nick N3AIU
Posted by N3AIU on 2005-02-08

So what?

The comments about receiving 599 reports while running QRP are irrelevant, no? I mean, I'm "59" into a repeater 70 miles away when I use 200mW output from my two meter hand-held (QRP). Does that make it special, or fun in some way?

QRP can be humbling, and for me it usually is.

But as another suggested, most anyone *can* run QRP. Just turn your output down, and you're there. I don't see any special challenge in it, except for the station at the other end of the circuit who has to hear me.

One thing that is annoying is receiving complaints of QRMing somebody who I cannot hear, at all. I call "QRL?" three times, hear nothing, and call CQ...then get a report that I was interfering with a QRP station. Well, that's life. I tried to not interfere, and it happened anyway, because I couldn't hear you!

Now that I think of it, I guess that *is* the challenge! :)

WB2WIK/6
Posted by WB2WIK on 2005-02-07

599/QRP

Steve writes: "The comments about receiving 599 reports while running QRP are irrelevant, no?"

No. The issue was raised about how some seem to have a perception that QRP=weak signals=the heavy lifting must be done by the Rx station=operating QRP is annoying, and burdens the receiving station unnecessarily.

So...when we report that we often get 579 to 599 reports with our QRP rigs, we're just testifying to the well-known fact that your antenna, and the conditions, have much, much more to do with your received signal strength than the power you supply to your finals.

If I can hear a station at 579 or better, I can work them, pretty much every time, and that includes through simplex pileups - if I have enough patience. With split pileups, I have as much chance as everyone else.

Very frequently, I have a QSO with an op where we exchange 599s, and the other op is running 100W. I always think, but never say (almost never,) why in the world are you using all that power?

For me, wireless communication with QRP CW is a miracle, every time. It seems that it would feel less like it with more power. Or different technology. (Cell phone calls don't do it for me, either...!)
Posted by K3ESE on 2005-02-07

QRP

What does it mean when my station output is QRO, But my signal is QRP? :)
Posted by KG6EJT on 2005-02-07

QRP SSB=>40W

The normal suburban noise level is so high these days! With the solar minimum, and encroaching EMI from many noise sources, it is becoming more difficult to hear QRP ops.

There are hundreds of 5 Watt to 35 Watt HF SSB operators on the HFpack calling frequencies (14342.5 - 18157.5 - 5371.5 kHz USB).

90% of the time, the 5 Watt SSB ops have signals that are within a few dB of the noise floor, or below the noise. When they turn up their power to 20 Watts, it is very often enough to make their signal good copy.

The effectiveness of a "QRP" 5 Watt CW or PSK31 transmitter is better than a 100W SSB transmitter. If the playing field is to be levelled, the standard for QRP for SSB should probably be at least 40 Watts!

73---Bonnie KQ6XA
Posted by KQ6XA on 2005-02-07

QRP = 1 Watt CW!

I think the QRP standard for CW should be lowered to 1 Watt. This would put it nearly even par with the 10 Watt SSB QRP standard!

73---Bonnie KQ6XA
Posted by KQ6XA on 2005-02-07

QRP

Not only is operating QRP fun, the people involved in QRP are experimenters and tinkerers. I've narrowed my focus to qrp because it appears to be an oasis in an otherwise very dry and dead desert.

73 John K7FD
Posted by K7FD on 2005-02-07

even better...

- there's only one thing better than operating QRP:

Building Your Own Gear!

- this includes:

antennas (wire)

transceivers (gee, i blew my final in my $25 Rock Mite! oh well, i guess i'll have to replace Q6's 2N3053 at a cost of 50 cents)

dummy load (eight 200 Ohm resistors)

tuner (NorCal BLT)

CW paddle (bulldog paper clip, stereo connector)

power supply (eight AAs for almost 1W output)

- total cost of HF station? $65 (more or less if you find cheap AAs and/or use a resonant wire antenna)

- oh, and the whole station fits in your jacket pocket!
Posted by LNXAUTHOR on 2005-02-06

Walkie-Talkie QRP DX

I've had great luck running 100w 'barefoot' transceivers all these years, however the 'hands down' coolest contacts to date were when using my 'AA cell' powered 'Spitfire' 10m SSB walkie-talkie and a 3 foot base-loaded whip attached to the 'walkie-T' to exchange signal reports with England, Spain, and Ireland running only 3 watts output on USB! Of course, I won't mention the many hours total time it took to raise the DX on the handheld!!! But the end result was fun, and plesantly surprising. Talk about having to 'really work' for that DX!
Posted by W8KQE on 2005-02-06

QRP Tx vs Rx

I like it. It's a challenge. If it were not, it would not be as much fun as so many people are having with it. It's probably the single biggest movement ham radio has ever seen. We can debate Know Code No Code til the end of time, but QRP has exploded onto the Ham Radio scene! CB'ers did QRP since day one, we have seen the cool looking, 11m multi element quads before.

On a day to day, week-end to week-end basis, most people under personal power and scheduling circumstances, do not have the luxury of going QRO high ERP portable or mobile. Yet, QRP is a most affordable endeavor, and anyone willing can afford to make it real.
Most can afford the physical payment required for lugging a battery big enough to power a small QRP radio for a couple hours at QRP, on a picnic or day trip, or even hiking/camping. This now becomes an ingress to self-reliance and self-sufficiency. A life changing philosphy. Throw in a solar charger and an Altoids state of the art rig like the ATS-III, and you're good for weeks out in the wilderness if you were so lucky to have the time to get away from it all for so long.

Also, I think there IS credit to be granted- to all those who are willing to stick it with giving their best in copying QRP signals. Actually, QRPp does become difficult, on a regular basis, as a matter of normalcy, for rag-chew non-contest type of QSOs. Especially under less than ideal band conditions, with simple antennas, at challenging QRP/QRPp distances.
I appreciate it much when the person on the other end is going over 3 rounds with me, hanging patiently in with me sending at QRS speeds of 15-18 wpm because my RST is 329 or 339 QSB/QRN/QRM. Especially on the lower bands where noise is noticable compared to 20m and up. Especially on 40m where there are often SSB signals present sharing the same band, and lots of non QRP signals often call +/- 1 Kc of 7.040 or even smack on the QRP frequency.
Especially if they are hearing me 339 on a vertical or something like that. My vertical was more prone to fading on transmit as well as receive.

So for all those QRO (say, 50W or more) ops out there who decide to stick it out with non arm chair, forward leaning, periodically eyes closed, with one hand on the RIT and the other on the gain controls copy, my hat goes off to you. This includes all QRP operators, and part-time QRPers, and those of the Life's Too Short For QRP mind set who decided to give themselves a work-out and hang with it the one time I was on the other end refusing to increase power because I selfishly wanted it to be logged at QRP. Or QRPp.

People like KJ7LB, who just today, stuck with me for 30 minutes with his Jupiter and R7 vertical while I kept my rig at it's lowest setting yeilding 900 mW to my single element wire antenna.

For this, HE deserves the FIST Rag Chew award with a special endorsement for COPYING a Distance-Power Ratio of 2,453 miles per watt, and exchanging much more than a signal report, name, qth, and wx conditions.

And so, I do believe that recognition is in order for those who decide to stick in when the going gets rough- which actually, IS THE NORM, when copying a signal that is doing a DPR of over Two-Thousand miles per watt via unity gain antenna such as a vertical, half-wave dipole, or less than half-wave dipole up less than a half a wave.

Posted by W3DCG on 2005-02-06

QRP & QRO

It all depends on what works at the time. I find the antenna is the great equalizer as is propagation. I've worked rare DX with 5 watts getting through on first call and I have missed rare DX with my kilowatt - it just depends. I have to agree with Andy - VK5LA: "QRP puts the FUN back into Ham Radio".

I have earned my fair share of awards working QRP and QRO - it is a thrill either way, the wonder of it all. Well that is my two cents worth.

73/72
Trent
Posted by WA0TML on 2005-02-05

qrp

I have operated qrp for most of my 18 years as a ham. I usually operate between 5 and 45 watts going to 100 watts for the real tough band conditions...
I have worked the world, WAS, and contested with the best of them... excessive power is cool but the best is making that DX QSO with low power! It is all in the antenna! I have gotten S9 siginal reports over seas on 20 watts! DE: KB2DHG
Posted by KB2DHG on 2005-02-05

to AC0H

Why do all the awards go to the guy/gal transmitting at QRP levels when its the guy/gal on the other end doing all the work? The awards should go to the people diggin the signal out of the QRM and QRN. It's a simple thing to transmit a signal at 5W or less.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
I've heard this complaint before, but what you fail to realize is that many times, especially on 10 meters, I get 599 reports while sending QRP. Matter of fact, I receive many different RSTs. Low power output does not necessarily equal weak signals on the RECV end. Just as running 1kw does not guarantee you a 59+ signal on the other end.
Most QRP'ers develop the best antenna system they can and make the most of their low power output levels. If you don't like QRP, then don't bother answering a XXXXX/QRP station calling CQ. I'd hate for you to strain yourself. Always someone has to inject negativity into just about any subject.
Posted by WB4M on 2005-02-05

to K0RFD

The real heroes of QRP operation are the ones who are patient enough to come back to a station they can barely hear.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Yes, another ham with no clue about QRP makes the same assumption as AC0H. QRP does NOT mean you have a weak signal on the other end!! I've run 500mw on 10 meters and received 599 reports! But, real QRP ops know of the limitations of QRP and EXPECT the copy to be rough sometimes so they have no problem with it.
Posted by WB4M on 2005-02-05

QRP is great

I run a bit of QRP myself. I really enjoy it. There is this assumption that running QRP means that one has a bad or weak signal. Not true at all. It all depends on the antennas. If you use a good, resonant antenna, and can get it in the air, there is not any limit to what you can work. However, I also will agree that a poor antenna can make a QRP contact very tough indeed. Sure, it will radiate, but for best results with QRP, it's more about antennas and less about power.
Posted by K0EWS on 2005-02-05

BIG misconception about QRP

I have replied to a few hams who think the "heroes" of QRP work is the guy doing the receiving. For some reason or another, these hams think that low power output automatically results in a very weak signal on the other end of the QSO, and this signal is buried in QRM, QSB, etc, etc. I guess propagation, MUF, and antenna construction is no longer taught in ham classes. I have recevied signal reports that run the full range of RSTs, all with the same amount of output power. Those who think QRP automatically = weak RECV on the other end need to turn off their amps and give it a try someday.
Posted by WB4M on 2005-02-05

QRP

I LOVE QRP CW! My motto is: Life may be too short for QRP, but not as short as it's going to be if you irradiate your brain and body with those fire-breathing beheamoths called "amps"
Posted by AK2A on 2005-02-05

I like to go barefoot...

Yeah it's a guilty pleasure but I like to do it barefoot. And sometimes that means QRP. I can't help it if that bothers some people. I also like to operate in my pajamas and at odd hours with a big supply of Pepsi and pencils. No really, barefoot operation is great, there's satisfaction in looking back at a logbook full of entries made when others were thinking they "had" to use their kilowatt toe-warmers because conditions were bad. I would consider mounting an amp for my mobile station on VHF and 10M but all other bands or at a home station I wouldn't consider it necessary it'd be like cheating. Better to work on increased gain for the antenna system. Long live Amateur Radio. Have fun being hammy.

Posted by KG6FHG on 2005-02-05

I have worked QRP a few times from my station, just to see how well it would do. Still I run 100watts most of the time here.
Posted by KD5OWO on 2005-02-05

Fun Fun Fun

I always start out at 5 watts and see what I can bring in with my IC-706MkIIg. My antenna makes more of a difference than my power output. I built a 160-m Windom and it did wonders for my signal. Of course, being a rare DX station works wonders, too! HI HI!

When I really want to have fun I pull out my Ramsey 40-meter QRP transmitter and my Realistic DX-440 receiver. That is a great combination. The only drawback is it's on 7.040 which is a prime RTTY frequency in IARU Region 1. A new 7.030 rock is on the way.

I guess the most efficient low-power mode is PSK31 and the like. Running only 5 watts last night netted me 25 QSO's in an hour and a half. That was my first attempt at digital mode operations since I've been in Iraq. My new Rigblaster Pro arrived and I had to try it out.

73 to all and I hope to see you on the air --QRO or QRP!

Korey
YI9VCQ / KA5VCQ
Al Taji, Iraq
Posted by YI9VCQ on 2005-02-04

Fun Fun Fun

I always start out at 5 watts and see what I can bring in with my IC-706MkIIg. My antenna makes more of a difference than my power output. I built a 160-m Windom and it did wonders for my signal. Of course, being a rare DX station works wonders, too! HI HI!

When I really want to have fun I pull out my Ramsey 40-meter QRP transmitter and my Realistic DX-440 receiver. That is a great combination. The only drawback is it's on 7.040 which is a prime RTTY frequency in IARU Region 1. A new 7.030 rock is on the way.

I guess the most efficient low-power mode is PSK31 and the like. Running only 5 watts last night netted me 25 QSO's in an hour and a half. That was my first attempt at digital mode operations since I've been in Iraq. My new Rigblaster Pro arrived and I had to try it out.

73 to all and I hope to see you on the air --QRO or QRP!

Korey
YI9VCQ / KA5VCQ
Al Taji, Iraq
Posted by YI9VCQ on 2005-02-04

QRO Forever

I am strictly a DXer, get in, make the contact, and move on. Never use less than 100 watts noninal power for all contacts. If the conditions are poor, simply hit the switches anf light up the fire bottles. Sh.., the crystal oscillator in my broadcast transmiier puts out more power than a little dinky 5 watt QRP rig. Life is too short for QRP.
Posted by W4MGY on 2005-02-04

QRP????

Yes I run QRP. I do turn the amp off from time to time. QRP is relative! Comments of a DXer
Posted by KX2S on 2005-02-04

QRP (and CW) Forever!

I operate 99.9% QRP (5w max) on HF.

Life's too short for QRO. I also find that the difference between 5 watts and 100 or more is a lot less than people think. I have received *many* comments on having a strong signal (though less since we hit the solar doldrums), and I DO NOT have a tower or any directional antennas (unless you count my low horizontal loop - it has lots of gain ... straight up!)
73 de kt8k - Tim
Posted by KT8K on 2005-02-04

Love it

I'm qro and qrp, working on WAS qrp, have 46 states worked and several 1000 per watt countries both SSB and PSK. At present only qrp due to qro rig lost its hearing. Now I should finish WAS. Yes it is hard on the receiving stations, they need the patience but I've been on that side also and will gladly work with them also for the qso.

72 de Galen
Posted by K0AMZ on 2005-02-04

QRP is fine.....

and has it's place in the hobby but....
Why do all the awards go to the guy/gal transmitting at QRP levels when its the guy/gal on the other end doing all the work? The awards should go to the people diggin the signal out of the QRM and QRN. It's a simple thing to transmit a signal at 5W or less.

Backpacking, mountain climbing and camping pretty much demand running at QRP levels and that's fine if that's what you want to do.
I just don't have the time to continuously call CQ and HOPE someone hears me.

Be well es 73 de ACØH

Posted by AC0H on 2005-02-04

Qrp


It is most fun for me when in a QRP operating event. Sprints, Fox Hunts, QRP contests. Everybody has about the same signal strength and everybody enjoys a level playing field. It can be lopsided when a Qro guy is struggling to copy a qrp signal.

The QRP events and operating the QRP frequencies work best for me when I am at 5 watts. 73, hank, kd5mjj / qrp
Posted by KD5MJJ on 2005-02-04

QRP? You betcha!

I have been a QRPer since I was a Novice. Even when the "experts" said that I should use more power, I used QRP. Why? Strictly financial. Not being a wealthy Republican...and having more important things in life to worry about...like college (before I graduated), bills, kids, etc...QRP was and is the way to go. With 300+ feet of antenna in the air, 5 watts or less isn't much of a challenge. And I even run RTTY without much hassle. For those that think it is "hard" to run QRP...and that you can't make regular QSOs...well...Pogue mo thoin agus go hIffrean leat.

John
KB2HSH
Posted by KB2HSH on 2005-02-04

QRP? You betcha!

I have been a QRPer since I was a Novice. Even when the "experts" said that I should use more power, I used QRP. Why? Strictly financial. Not being a wealthy Republican...and having more important things in life to worry about...like college (before I graduated), bills, kids, etc...QRP was and is the way to go. With 300+ feet of antenna in the air, 5 watts or less isn't much of a challenge. And I even run RTTY without much hassle. For those that think it is "hard" to run QRP...and that you can't make regular QSOs...well...Pogue mo thoin agus go hIffrean leat.

John
KB2HSH
Posted by KB2HSH on 2005-02-04

Low power portable/mobile

I use low power, but not because I want my identity to consist of a Q-signal. The FT-817 is my mobile radio because it's convenient and portable (twice the size of a handheld) and I operate single-op-portable (no longer called QRP portable) in VHF contests because I'm competitive in that category. Low power is not the objective, but portability is - and if you're hearing me, I'm just in compliance with the FCC rule for "minimum power to insure reliable communication."
Posted by N3EG on 2005-02-04

Low Power Rocks!

I have been a 100W and/or Amp operator ever since I've had my licence,
but got an Icom 703 the other week and love the fact that I can make contacts with 5 or 10 watts and a piece of wire.

QRP puts the FUN back into Ham Radio

Andy - VK5LA
Posted by VK5LA on 2005-02-03

not yet , but its comeing

no i have not as of yet operated qrp , but it is comeing in the future. i have worked many qrp ops & i get as much fun out of working them as they probably do working me.
I think qrp has stired a renewed interest to many hams. working a milwatts stn is very exciteing to me . i also enjoy working those old boat anchors ha! i find lots of both in winter time on 80 mtr cw . its a whole new world of dxing . will be watching for your smoke signals on the horizon lol
73s Bill
Posted by K8FLY on 2005-02-03

oh, yes!

My first ticket was in 1968, and I've been 100% QRP CW all the way. I operate with home-built radios and wire antennas, and enjoy the hobby immensely. In the last couple of days of casual operating, I've worked Cuba, St. Croix, Nicaragua, Algeria, France, Mauritius, Namibia, Botswana, Martinique, Ecuador, Fuertaventura (in the Canaries,) and Iceland...all with 4 to 5 watts. Some of these were worked through pile-ups.

Fun = Skill / Power!
Posted by K3ESE on 2005-02-03

Yes, When band is quiet.

Enjoy it when the bands are quiet. Frustrating activity when noise is up. Still need Alaska on 160 QRP for six band WAS QRP. QRP tests are very enjoyable.

Bill - K8NQC
Posted by K8NQC on 2005-02-03

I'm QRP 110%

WA2TPU here....I'm 110% Qrp and use/built MONSTER antennas that sounds like I'm using a couple hundred watts. Want to here my MASSIVE QRP signal...catch me with Walt, Tony, Rich- 14240 mhz Gang in the afternoons. GO QRP!!! Ooooooooooooooo Rah!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by WA2TPU on 2005-02-03

QRP is loads of fun

I got started in qrp about 2 years ago after being a ham for 35 years. I purchased the Elecraft K2 with 3 options. I met the nicest, most helpful people when I started with qrp. I am a member of the Knightlites and the website is at www.knightlites.org and shows our little "dxpeditions" to places like the Outer Banks of North Carolina. We camp out on the banks and set up our solar power, battery stations and use kites thanks to Paul, ab4xx to raise the vertical wire antennas. Our mess cook is John Paul Keon, ab4pp and he cooks 7 meals a day! I have more fun with these guys than all my years in the hobby. Guys, go to the website listed and it is free to join and tell your local hams and get out there in the boonies and operate. QRP is a lot of fun and the nice people one can meet. 73's
Posted by N3DRK on 2005-02-03

QRP

Bike mobile...talk and excise at the same time.

Bob - K4BFD
Posted by K4BFD on 2005-02-03

I operated QRP once, when I had to do Field Day as a 1E, so in order to optimize the situation I did CW/QPR only.

--... ...--
Doug K1RDD
Posted by K1RDD on 2005-02-03

I'm tempted ...

Someday would like to build a K-2 and retire to QRP. Right now, the amplifier is needed as I go after those last few zones on 80 meters.

A couple of weeks ago, I had quite a nice chat on 40m CW with a fellow in Wisconsin who was running 250 mW to a rhombic antenna.

So, should I say to my QRP friends, more power to you? Maybe I should just say-- carry on and continue demonstrating what is possible.

73,
Chuck NI0C


Posted by NI0C on 2005-02-03

QRP Rocks!

I love the challenge. I've built my own stuff and have plans to build even more.

I turned to QRP when my mother-in-law tried to have me arrested for elder abuse. I was causing here tough lamp to change states. I found that I had run < 10W to prevent the interference.

I don't have many contacts yet because my operating time is limited. It skill and persistence to complete these contacts.

I run:

150mW from a Pixie2 on 30mtrs.
500mW from a RM-40
1.5W from an HW-7 on 40, 20, and 15mtrs
7W from my K1-4 on 40, 30, 20, and 17mtrs
3W from my HA750 on 6mtr AM

In addition, I have two Radio Shack HTX rigs on 2mtrs and 70cm, and an old Heathkit Sixer. See my web-page:

www.geocities.com/ae1x

Ken, AE1X

Posted by AE1X on 2005-02-03

HW-7 forever! You make a contact with this box, and you take your XYL out to dinner!

GEne K1ZF
Posted by K1ZF on 2005-02-03

100% QRP

I operate 100% QRP on all bands 160-6 meters, using a Yaesu FT-817 and Alpha Delta DX-B sloper antenna at 55 feet. I have 48 states and 79 DXCC countries worked with 5 watts or less. I enjoy QRP contesting, especially the QRP sprints, however I participate in all of the major contests. I am able to work most of the same DX the QRO guys work, but sometimes it takes a little longer. QRP operating does require patience.

For those of you who have considered trying QRP but haven't yet, I would highly recommend you turn the drives back on your QRO rigs and see what happens. You'll be amazed at what can be accomplished with just a couple of watts! 72

Chris NV9Z
qrp.ke9v.net
Posted by NV9Z on 2005-02-03

QRP CW can be fun, even in a QRO-type contest, but QRP SSB in a QRO-type contest reminds me of being locked underground and screaming to get someone to hear you!

I won the 2004 SS QRP for WWA in SSB mode, but it was very hard, I could only operate for 9 hours.

WB7FJG and I won the 2B2B (QRP battery) class for the USA in 2004 FD, running K2s off 12V batteries with solar cell chargers. Again, CW was fun, SSB was annoying as hell!

Want some real fun? Hook your 1500W to a good antenna and work a long, fast string of callers. Whooo!!!

73, Steve N4SL Machias, WA USA
Posted by N4SL on 2005-02-03

QRP and QRO

I like to work some QRP, but with the threat of BPL polluting the HF bands my motto is “Full legal limit every time all the time.” ;)



Craig - N7UQA
Posted by N7UQA on 2005-02-03

It's all in the perspective

As far as I am concerned, 100w IS QRP! :)

QRO Forever.
Posted by N3ZKP on 2005-02-03

To everything there is a season....

QRP is fun and I enjoy operating at 5W or less some times but I'm not dogmatic about it, the way some are, and happily operate 100W at others. Everything has its time and place.

Of course, what constitutes "QRP" is relative: 100W would be QRP for a moonbounce station on 2 meters :-)

72 de WA8TZG
Posted by WA8TZG on 2005-02-03

Who is challenged?

Some may agree with me, and some may not.

QRP operators always refer to the "challenge" of QRP -- but the real challenge is borne by anybody trying to copy them. The real heroes of QRP operation are the ones who are patient enough to come back to a station they can barely hear.

As BPL and Part 15 devices such as 20 over 9 electric blankets become more prevalent in our society, people who work QRP stations will become even more heroic.

Before anybody thinks I don't like QRP ops, that's not true. I'll work anybody who signs with a /QRP after their callsign. I just think the credit needs to land where it belongs--with anybody who HEARS the QRP station.
Posted by K0RFD on 2005-02-03

100 watts on HF ALWAYS

I LIKE THE OTHER GUY TO HEAR ME. and not have to strain his EARS. gud cpy for ALL. band conditions permitting. 73
Posted by N2NZJ on 2005-02-03

HW-7

Quote:
HW-7 forever! You make a contact with this box, and you take your XYL out to dinner!

GEne K1ZF

Posted by K1ZF on February 3, 2005
end Quote:

I had one! You are absolutely correct. Of course, you may not have a wife to take out to dinner if you wait for a contact each time HIHI!

I have a 706 MKII. Bought it used on eBay or I wouldn't have a 706 now. I like dropping it to minimum power (about 5 watts) and operating sometimes. I like having the ability of raising the power easily if desired. It also has a great receiver. Receives only one band at the time. I sold my HW-7 to help fund this rig.

Buck
N4PGW
Posted by N4PGW on 2005-02-03