QRP Operation
QRP is low-power operation but for as long as I can remember, debate has raged as to what is low power. In the States 100 watts or less is low power but in the United Kingdom less than 5 watts is considered to be low power. IARU Region 1 defines low power as 10 watts dc input power and QRPp as 1 watt.
QRP is very popular with many amateurs, some of whom offer ethical explanations for their low-power work. They claim that in these days of crowded amateur radio bands, it is reasonable to use only the minimum power necessary to complete a contact.
So what can be achieved with low-power? Well you might be surprised. Results over the years have shown QRP is no barrier to successful DX working. However skillful and dedicated operators are required since pulling weak signals out of the noise is the big challenge with QRP. Operators should have a firm grasp of propagation patterns since prevailing conditions may make a big difference between making a contact or not. It is said that the key requirements for a good QRP operator are patience and cunning!
Equipment is also important for the QRP operator. Many use home built gear and circuit diagrams may be found in many amateur radio publications world wide. As operation is mainly on cw simple equipment can produce good results. However the serious operator does need a VFO controlled transmitter and a good quality receiver. Antennas too form a very important part of the QRP station. With low-power operation it is essential to have well matched, high gain antennas. The most successful operators use only simple wire antennas and a good antenna tuning unit designed for QRP work.
Take a look at this YouTube video on the Bit-O-BitX homebrew SSB QRP transceiver.
Or what about this new Elecraft KX3 transceiver announced at the 2011 Dayton Hamvention.
Most QRP operation is on cw but ssb is also used. Coherent cw (CCW) is also appearing. This is a digital mode used mainly in the USA and Japan but there are signs of interest appearing in other parts of the world.
QRP is a fascinating mode and presents many challenges to the ham radio enthusiast. It also offers an inexpensive route into the hobby and great opportunities to hone your skills as a constructor of home brew equipment. After all, isn't that what the hobby is all about?
Posted 21 May, 2011 11:58:03 GMT