A typical QSO (contact) in amateur radio follows a standard structure, though it can vary depending on the mode (voice, CW, digital) and the preferences of the operators. Below is an example of a voice QSO on SSB (Single Side Band):
Calling CQ (Initiating a Contact):
Station 1: "CQ CQ CQ, this is [callsign], calling CQ and standing by."
Responding to the CQ:
Station 2: "[Station 1 callsign], this is [Station 2 callsign]. Over."
Establishing the Contact:
Station 1: "[Station 2 callsign], this is [Station 1 callsign]. Thank you for the call.
You're [signal report, e.g., 59].
My QTH is [location], and my name is [name]. How do you copy? Over."
Station 2: "[Station 1 callsign], this is [Station 2 callsign]. Thank you.
You're [signal report, e.g., 59].
My QTH is [location], and my name is [name]. Nice to meet you! Over."
Continuing the Conversation:
Station 1: "[Station 2 callsign], thank you for the information.
Conditions are [e.g., good, noisy].
I’m running [e.g., equipment description, power, antenna].
How about your station? Over."
Station 2: "[Station 1 callsign], I’m running [equipment details].
Conditions here are [e.g., clear, rainy, sunny]. Great to make contact! Over."
Ending the QSO:
Station 1: "[Station 2 callsign], thank you for the QSO.
Hope to catch you on the air again. 73 (best regards) and good DX!
[Station 1 callsign] clear."
Station 2: "Thank you, [Station 1 callsign]. 73, and have a great day! [Station 2 callsign] clear."
In CW (Morse code), this structure is abbreviated, with standard prosigns (e.g., "73" for best regards, "SK" for end of contact) and Q-codes (e.g., "QTH?" for location). For example:
CQ: "CQ CQ CQ DE [Station 1 callsign] K"
Reply: "[Station 1 callsign] DE [Station 2 callsign] KN"
Signal Report: "UR RST 599 599 QTH [location] NAME [name] HW? BK"
End of QSO: "73 TNX FER QSO SK"
Digital modes like FT8 follow an even more condensed exchange, typically automated by software.