QRP

QRP is a term in amateur radio used to describe low-power operation. It can refer to the power level itself as well as the practice of attempting to make contacts with minimal transmitter output. In common usage, QRP means operating with five watts or less on HF bands; some operators pursue even lower power levels and use QRPp to denote very low power, typically 1 watt or less, and sometimes down to milliwatts.

QRP originated from the Q code, a set of concise telegraphic abbreviations developed in the early days of radiocommunication. In that system, QRP means "shall I reduce power?" or "power level: low." In amateur radio, QRP emphasizes efficiency, skill, and discipline, rather than power, as a path to making reliable contacts across distance.

Equipment for QRP is usually compact and efficient. Operators favor lightweight, battery-powered transceivers, high-efficiency antennas, and careful tuning for each operating environment. Because power is limited, many QRP operators rely on CW (Morse code) or other high-sensitivity modes like FT8 or JT65, though voice (SSB) and digital modes are also used.

Community and culture: QRP has an active following, with clubs, online forums, and annual events. Many operators participate in portable or field-day style operations, often hiking to remote locations to test antenna setups and operating skills. Public contests and awards exist to recognize low-power performance, such as CQ Worldwide QRP Contests and other regional events.

Operation considerations: success with QRP depends on antenna efficiency, good propagation conditions, and timing. Operators log many contacts with very short transmissions and emphasize steady, courteous operating practices and accurate logging (QSLs) to confirm contacts.