Ham Radio For Dummies, 4th Edition

Chapter 17

Ham Radio Jargon — Say What?

Like any hobby, ham radio involves a fair amount of jargon. To a newcomer (or an experienced ham starting a new activity) using jargon can make it harder to get going. This chapter explains terms you’re likely to encounter.

Spoken Q-signals

In theory, these abbreviations are just supposed to be used in Morse operation. In practice, however, hams use spoken versions on voice which can be confusing. The meanings are often a little different than the formal definition, as well. (A full list of common Q-signals can be found in Chapter 8.)

• Kyew-are-emm (QRM): Any kind of interference. Local QRM refers to audio noise bothering the speaker: “I’m getting some local QRM from the TV.”
• Kyew-are-eks (QRX): A request to stop talking or stand by, “Can you QRX for a minute?”
• Kyew-are-zed (QRZ): What was that call sign? “Zed” is a phonetic for Z as well as its British pronunciation.
• Kyew-so (QSO): “In contact with,” as in “I’m in QSO with NØAX right now.”
• Kyew-ess-ell (QSL): Often means “I agree!”
• Kyew-aitch-bee (QHB): A fun way to wish a ham operator “Happy Birthday!”

Contesting or Radiosport

In the fast-paced world of a contest, knowing the terms helps you get up to speed and feel at home handing out contacts. A full contest glossary is available from Contest University (CTU) at contestuniversity.com/attachments/Contesting_Terminology.pdf. CTU is a full day of training and lectures held at the Dayton Hamvention every year.

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