CQ Amateur Radio

“I’ll Either Get it Done with QRP or it Won’t Happen!”

“Each QSO becomes an accomplishment instead of just another routine entry in your log.”
An Interview With Two QRP Aficionados

Many folks find February dull and dreary, but it is one of my favorite months. As a QRP operator, I look forward to the February issue of CQ, as it is dedicated to low-power communication with a focus on the equipment and fun in making contacts with just a fraction of the power most hams use. I already know what you are thinking and before you can ask your question, I will answer it for you … Yes, you can make contacts using only a few watts of power output. A good radiator, an efficient feedline, and the mindset that you can make contacts at QRP levels is all you need to succeed whether you are using CW, SSB, or one of the digital modes.

To celebrate the annual QRP Special, I have dedicated this month’s column to two ham operators who have embraced the spirit of QRP, accepted the challenges associated with low-power operation, and have accomplished feats that many of our comrades on the other side of the power spectrum only dream about. It is important to note that I have a list of QRP operators I wanted to high-light in this month’s column, but due to space limitations, I can only feature two. In order to adequately highlight each operator, I am setting aside space in future columns (sidebar fashion) so that I can provide their thoughts on low power communication, hints for successful operation, and station photos.

So, with no further ado, let’s get to it. QRO operators, check your amplifiers at

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