[Tlf-devel] "/QRP" modifier

[Martin Kratoska]

Was: Re: [Tlf-devel] Stew Perry review

Dne 13.1.2014 08:16, Ervin Hegedüs - HA2OS napsal(a):
> I understand all of above, my _real_ question is how can I know
> the station IS a QRP? I know, there is a "/QRP" modifier at the
> end of callsign, but should we bind this for the scoring?

The /QRP modifier is considered as ilegal by many operators (including 
me). The legal modifiers are /P, /M, /MM and /AM, however some national 
authorities allowing to use /A and /number (presumably where a numbered 
district system is in use, ie. SM, YB etc.).

Keep in mind that calling HA2OS/QRP was considered (years ago) as 
calling of an unlicensed station in _many countries_. Nowadays, the 
massive use of /QRP is a result of the simple fact that many authorities 
giving up the monitoring of short wave bands, namely ham radio. Other 
reason to avoid /QRP is the fact that many stations (mis)using this 
modifier to attract more attention which is simply unfair.

The problem is in use of the "compound" sign /. No problem if you use CQ 
DE HA2OS QRP and so on, also TEST DE HA2OS QRP etc.

If I hear /QRP in a pile, the user has ZERO chance to get QSO with me, 
no matter where the QTH (my or his) is. And I am not a rare exception, 
it is very annoying to copy nothing but /QRP. Also, I do not fully 
understand those idiots applying for a very short call sign and 
immediately destroying this call sign with /QRP.

I want to remind that we can exist thank to the status of a "radio 
communications service" recognized by ITU. This is the reason why you 
need a license to operate on LF, MF, HF and VHF. The frequencies below 
10 kHz and in the light region are not considered as radio frequencies, 
ie. no license (and no call sign) needed to operate there. I am one if 
the (few?) believing that strictly keeping of all ITU regulations will 
help to preserve ham radio bands and ham radio service in general. AFAIK 
ITU Radio Regulations does not consider /QRP modifier...

In 70s and earlier _NOBODY_ used /QRP, this nasty practice appeared 
first in mid 80s, with a lot of criticism.

73,
Martin, OK1RR