GeneralG2D05

Which of the following indicates that you are looking for an HF contact with any station?

C
Answer
Operating procedures and practices
Type
A
Sign your call sign once, followed by the words “listening for a call” -- if no answer, change frequency and repeat
B
Say “QTC” followed by “this is” and your call sign -- if no answer, change frequency and repeat
C
Repeat “CQ” a few times, followed by “this is,” then your call sign a few times, then pause to listen, repeat as necessary
D
Transmit an unmodulated carried for approximately 10 seconds, followed by “this is” and your call sign, and pause to listen -- repeat as necessary

Answer Notes

Calling 'CQ' is the standard amateur radio operating procedure for initiating a general call to any station. A proper CQ call involves repeating 'CQ' multiple times, stating 'this is', and then giving your own call sign multiple times. Pausing to listen is a crucial part of the procedure so you can hear if someone is responding to your call. The typical format, often called the '3x3 method' (CQ CQ CQ, this is Call Call Call), ensures listeners tuning around the band have enough time to lock onto your transmission and identify you. The distractors are incorrect for various reasons. 'QTC' is a Q-signal meaning 'I have messages for you', not 'I am looking for a contact.' Transmitting an unmodulated carrier causes interference without conveying information, and simply saying 'listening for a call' is a practice used on VHF/UHF FM repeaters, not for establishing new HF contacts.
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