BasicB-002-003-001
What is the correct way to call "CQ" when using voice?
A
Answer
Licensing, station identification, and operation
Type
A
Say "CQ" three times, followed by "this is," followed by your call sign spoken three times
B
Say "CQ" once, followed by "this is," followed by your call sign spoken three times
C
Say "CQ" at least five times, followed by "this is," followed by your call sign spoken once
D
Say "CQ" at least ten times, followed by "this is," followed by your call sign spoken once
Answer Notes
The standard amateur radio practice for initiating a general call is the "3x3" method. You say "CQ" three times, followed by "this is," and then state your call sign three times.
This method strikes the perfect balance between being brief and giving tuning stations enough time to hear your transmission, recognize that you are calling CQ, and clearly copy your call sign.
Saying CQ too many times (like five or ten) clutters the frequency and annoys listening operators, which is often called a "long CQ." Conversely, stating it only once may not give scanners or tuning operators enough time to stop and properly catch your call sign.
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How should you answer a voice CQ call?