Question
How can you avoid harmful interference on an apparently clear frequency before calling CQ on CW or phone?
Answer Options
- A) Send “QRL?” on CW, followed by your call sign; or, if using phone, ask if the frequency is in use, followed by your call sign
- B) Listen for 2 minutes before calling CQ
- C) Send the letter “V” in Morse code several times and listen for a response, or say “test” several times and listen for a response
- D) Send “QSY” on CW or if using phone, announce “the frequency is in use,” then give your call sign and listen for a response
Correct Answer: A
Explanation
Before initiating a general call (CQ) on an apparently clear frequency, good amateur practice requires verifying that the frequency is truly unoccupied to avoid interfering with any ongoing, but perhaps very weak, contacts. The recommended procedure varies slightly by mode. On CW, the proper query is the procedural signal ‘QRL?’ (Are you busy/Is the frequency in use?) followed by your call sign.
On a voice mode (phone), the equivalent action is to simply ask, ‘Is this frequency in use?’ or ‘Is the frequency busy?’ followed by your call sign. You should then wait briefly for a response. This simple check is a mandatory courtesy, as a quick listen may miss a distant or weak station that is actively using the frequency.
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