Delving Into The History of CQ Call

 Every radio amateur knows about CQ calls and I am quite to happy to hear a CQ call on the amateur radio bands as that is an opportunity to start a contact. Going back to the history of CQ calls, I was surprised to learn from Wikipedia that it started in the transatlantic cable and landline telegraphy, not among radio amateurs! If 'K' is transmitted after the General Call, it is an invitation for any of the hearing stations to call back. It is also mentioned that it was being used by diplomatic, press, maritime, aviation and law enforcement services till those services discontinued the use of Morse telegraphy. CQ calls have been mentioned in publications as early as 1871.


73 de Jon, VU2JO


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