Abbreviations & Prosigns
Shorthand used on the air to save time. Prosigns are sent without inter-character spacing (e.g. AR as .-.-. not .-. .-.).
Prosigns
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| AR | End of message |
| AS | Wait / stand by |
| BK | Break — pause in transmission |
| BT | Break text — new paragraph |
| KN | Go ahead — specific station only |
| SK | End of contact (silent key) |
| K | Go ahead — any station |
Abbreviations
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| SOS | International distress signal |
| CQ | Calling any station |
| DE | From (this is...) |
| R | Received / Roger |
| TU | Thank you |
| 73 | Best regards (ham radio) |
| 88 | Love and kisses (ham radio) |
| OM | Old man (fellow operator) |
| YL | Young lady (female operator) |
Q Codes
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| QTH | Location / home station |
| QSL | Acknowledge receipt / confirmation card |
| QRM | Interference from other stations |
| QRN | Static / natural interference |
| QRP | Low power operation |
| QRT | Stop sending / closing down |
| QRX | Stand by — will call again |
| QSY | Change frequency |
| QTH? | What is your location? |