QRP, or low power operation means transmitting very low power levels while aiming to obtain maximum effective range. The term QRP comes from the original Q codes, meaning "Reduce power," or "Should I reduce power?" respectively.

There is a segment of the amateur community that shuns "kilowatt" or higher power communication and strives to make contacts using the minimum necessary power, mostly via CW and mostly via 5 watts or less.

There are specific operating awards, and clubs devoted to QRP, and many contests include a QRP section. There is a distinct satisfaction to making a long distance contact and having a conversation using minimal power.

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by KeysCapt
last modified: 2007-11-10 16:39:05