Common Ham Radio Q Signals
Hams use three-letter Q signals on every mode and even in face-to-face conversation. Here are the Q signals most commonly used in day-to-day operation. Each signal can be a question or an answer, as shown in the Meaning column. A complete list of ham radio Q signals, including those used on nets and repeaters, is available from AC6V.
| Q Signal | Meaning |
|---|---|
| QRL | Is the frequency busy? The frequency is busy. Please do not interfere. |
| QRM | Abbreviation for interference from other signals. |
| QRN | Abbreviation for interference from natural or human-made static. |
| QRO | Shall I increase power? Increase power. |
| QRP | Shall I decrease power? Decrease power. |
| QRQ | Shall I send faster? Send faster (__words per minute [wpm]). |
| QRS | Shall I send more slowly? Send more slowly (__wpm). |
| QRT | Shall I stop sending or transmitting? Stop sending or transmitting. |
| QRU | Have you anything more for me? I have nothing more for you. |
| QRV | Are you ready? I am ready. |
| QRX | Stand by. |
| QRZ | Who is calling me? |
| QSB | Abbreviation for signal fading. |
| QSL | Did you receive and understand? Received and understood. |
| QSO | Abbreviation for a contact. |
| QST | General call preceding a message addressed to all amateurs. |
| QSX | I am listening on ___ kHz. |
| QSY | Change to transmission on another frequency (or to ___ kHz). |
| QTH | What is your location? My location is ____. |
