VIDEO
Ham radio has been a fascinating hobby for many decades, offering operators a chance to connect across the globe using various modes and power levels. One aspect that continues to captivate both seasoned and new enthusiasts alike is QRP operation — the art of low power communication. In this article, I’ll share my experiences and insights on QRP, explaining what makes it so appealing, the equipment involved, and how you can get started with this rewarding side of ham radio.
What is QRP and Why Choose Low Power?
QRP is a Q code that simply means operating at low power, typically 5 watts or less. For newcomers to ham radio, the term might be unfamiliar, but it plays a huge role in the community. When I first started back in 1960, my first transmitter was a crystal-controlled 160m rig producing only about three or four watts. Despite such low power, I was able to make contacts effectively — a testament to the challenge and satisfaction QRP operation offers.
You might wonder, why would anyone choose to operate low power when you can easily buy a 100-watt transceiver or even run amplifiers pushing 1000 watts? The answer lies in the unique thrill of making contacts with minimal power and equipment. QRP forces you to focus on fundamentals like antenna efficiency, propagation conditions, and operating skill.
Operating at low power also brings practical benefits:
- Portability: QRP gear is often lightweight and compact, allowing you to operate from remote locations such as hills, beaches, or parks.
- Power Efficiency: You can run your station from batteries or solar panels, making it ideal for off-grid or emergency communication scenarios.
- Challenge and Skill Development: QRP pushes you to refine your operating techniques and understand radio propagation more deeply.
The Appeal of CW and Digital Modes in QRP
QRP is often associated with CW (Morse code) operation. CW is not only a traditional mode but also one of the most efficient ways to communicate on low power. It’s essentially an early form of digital communication, using on-off keying to transmit messages. Learning CW can be challenging, but once mastered, it opens a vast new dimension in ham radio. Many operators find pride and satisfaction in using this mode, as it requires practice and skill.
In recent years, digital modes like FT8 have become popular among QRP enthusiasts. FT8 allows communication with extremely low power — sometimes as little as one or two watts — over vast distances, as long as the propagation conditions are favourable. This mode complements CW by providing another efficient way to make contacts with minimal power.
Operating QRP in the Field
One of the joys of QRP is the ability to operate away from your home station. Whether it’s a mountain summit, a quiet beach, or a park, QRP gear’s portability allows you to enjoy radio in pristine environments with low noise levels. Saltwater locations, for example, can enhance your signal significantly due to improved ground conductivity.
Using simple antennas such as wire dipoles, loops, or portable whips can be surprisingly effective in these settings. The reduced noise in remote areas often means you can hear weak signals that would otherwise be lost in urban RF clutter.
QRP Equipment: A Look at Popular Transceivers
Over the years, I’ve used various QRP transceivers, and I’d like to share some of the highlights that might inspire your own QRP journey.
The Elecraft KX3 and KX2
The Elecraft KX3 was a game changer when it came on the scene. It offered up to 15 watts output on higher bands and packed advanced features like excellent filtering, stability, and a high-resolution display — the same used on Elecraft’s flagship K3 base station. It quickly became a favourite among QRP operators worldwide, including here in the UK.
Following the KX3, the KX2 was introduced as a smaller, more portable rig. It covers 80m through 10m (with receive-only on 160m) and produces 10 watts on external power or 5 watts on internal batteries. The KX2 is truly pocket-sized and perfect for portable operation. Both rigs allow power output to be turned down to milliwatt levels for ultra-low power challenges.
Xiegu X6100 and X6200
More recently, Chinese-manufactured transceivers like the Xiegu X6100 and X6200 have become popular for QRP enthusiasts. These radios offer features such as colour panoramic displays, built-in antenna tuners (which are not optional but integrated), and good selectivity and noise reduction. The X6200 even includes airband reception, which is a unique addition for a QRP rig.
Priced at roughly half or less than the Elecraft KX3, these radios represent excellent value. They deliver 10 watts output on external power and about 5 watts on internal batteries, with battery life sufficient for an afternoon’s operation. The build quality is solid, and these radios have gained a strong following for their performance and affordability.
Xiegu G90 and Icom IC-705
The Xiegu G90 is a slightly more powerful transceiver, offering up to 20 watts and covering 160m through 10m. It supports all popular modes including SSB, AM, and CW, with a built-in antenna tuner and excellent receiver performance. The G90 is a rugged, reliable rig at a very attractive price point.
At the higher end, the Icom IC-705 (which I own and appreciate) is a versatile and rugged QRP transceiver covering 160m to 70cm bands. It produces 10 watts on external power and 5 watts on battery, which clips onto the back of the radio for easy replacement. The IC-705 features a large colour display, panoramic spectrum scope, and supports digital modes like D-STAR FM. While it lacks a built-in antenna tuner, Icom offers an external tuner accessory to complement it.
Classic QRP: The B2 and Paraset Transceivers
QRP has a rich history, and some of the most famous examples come from World War II. The B2 transceiver, consisting of a transmitter and a VFO-controlled receiver housed in a suitcase, was used by resistance fighters and spies. It’s a symbol of the minimalist and effective design philosophy behind QRP.
I’m currently building a replica of the Paraset transceiver, a WWII-era rig that was dropped behind enemy lines for clandestine communication. These historical radios remind us how QRP operation is rooted in the very beginnings of radio communication, combining simplicity with skill.
QRP Operating Tips and Frequencies
For those new to QRP, it’s worth noting that operating technique matters a lot. When calling CQ on low power, you might not always get a reply immediately. A more effective strategy is to listen for stations calling CQ and then respond. This ensures someone is already listening on that frequency, increasing your chances of a successful contact.
There are dedicated QRP frequencies on popular bands:
- 40m: Around 7.030 MHz is a common QRP calling frequency for CW operators.
- 20m: Frequencies near 14.060 MHz are used by QRP enthusiasts, though activity can be lighter.
Operating on these frequencies can help you find like-minded operators and make contacts more easily.
Choosing the Right QRP Transceiver
The market today offers an unprecedented variety of QRP transceivers, from budget-friendly Chinese models to high-end kits and fully assembled rigs. When selecting a radio, I advise sticking to brands you recognize and trust. Buying from reputable dealers often includes warranties and support, which can be invaluable.
At Waters & Stanton, we stock a range of QRP transceivers including Elecraft and Xiegu models, providing a two-year warranty and expert advice. Exploring our selection can help you find the perfect rig to match your operating style and budget.
Looking Ahead: New QRP Innovations
One exciting new development is the Yaesu FTX1F (Field) transceiver, which is expected to become available soon. This rig promises to be a serious contender in the QRP market with features such as dual receive, 160m through 70cm coverage, and compatibility with 100-watt amplifiers for base station use. It’s designed to compete with models like the IC-705 and offers modern digital modes and a compact form factor.
Keep an eye out for this model as it hits the shelves, as it could represent the next step in portable QRP operation.
Conclusion: Embrace the Challenge and Joy of QRP
Whether you are a seasoned ham with decades of experience or a newcomer eager to explore the hobby, QRP operation offers a unique and rewarding challenge. It strips radio communication back to its essentials, emphasizing skill, knowledge, and efficient use of equipment.
From early crystal-controlled transmitters to today’s sophisticated portable transceivers, the spirit of QRP remains the same: to see how far and how clearly you can communicate with minimal power. It’s a hobby within a hobby, rich with history and innovation.
If you’re looking for a new adventure in ham radio, I encourage you to try QRP. Explore the gear available, learn CW or digital modes like FT8, and experience the thrill of making contacts with just a few watts. You might just find it to be the most satisfying part of your ham radio journey.
Thank you for reading, and happy operating!
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