DX

QSL managers are frequently the unsung heroes in the world of DX. Often, it takes only a few seconds to make a QSO with a DX station, especially when it is a DXpedition. But even with the use of an OQRS system, actually processing a QSL card for the “deserving” out there can take minutes to accomplish. Then multiply by several thousand contacts. Think about it.

For example: I work 3CØL on 20 SSB as such:

N2OO calls in the pileup: “November Two Oscar Oscar”

3CØL: “November Two Oscar Oscar five nine”

N2OO: “QSL. You’re also five nine. Thanks”

3CØL: “Thanks, QRZed Three Charlie Zero Lima”

As long as the QSO goes smoothly, I count off about 5 or 6 seconds.

Now, let’s look at processing a QSL card via the three most common methods, OQRS, the QSL Bureau system and direct mail (Logbook of the World is not included since no physical card is produced or mailed).

Doing the OQRS process in Club Log, the amount of time varies. The QSL manager must log in, go to the correct “call” account for the DX station, and go through the process to print labels for all requested QSLs for that particular call. In the early stages of a DXpedition QSL process, this overall time is condensed since “many” labels can be created at one time. Now the next part of the process begins, which is “peel-and-stick.” In Club Log, QSO labels are printed as well as mailing address labels. So, the peel-and-stick process involves placing the QSO label on the QSL card and the address label on the mailing envelope. Postage will need to be affixed as well as a return address. Let’s add some appropriate stuffers (NCDXF,