Preferred Communication Practices in Ham Radio

Ham radio operators are encouraged to use clear, standardized, and universally understood communication methods. Here are some alternatives to 10-codes:

Plain Language:

Use clear, concise English (or the appropriate language for international communication) to convey messages.

Example: Instead of "10-4," say "Understood" or "Acknowledged."

Q-Codes:

Q-codes are a standardized set of abbreviations used in ham radio (originally developed for Morse code but also used in voice communication).

Examples:

QSL: "Can you acknowledge receipt?" or "I acknowledge receipt."

QTH: "What is your location?" or "My location is..."

QRZ: "Who is calling me?" or "Is the frequency in use?"

Q-codes are widely recognized in the ham radio community and are more appropriate than 10-codes.

Phonetic Alphabet:

Use the NATO phonetic alphabet (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, etc.) to spell out call signs, words, or locations clearly, especially in noisy or weak signal conditions.

Example: Instead of saying "K5XYZ," say "Kilo Five X-ray Yankee Zulu."

Procedural Words (Prosigns):

Use standard procedural words for clarity in voice communications:

"Over": Indicates the end of your transmission, inviting a response.

"Out": Indicates the end of the conversation.

"Break": Used to interrupt or request priority in a conversation (e.g., during emergencies).

Signal Reports:

Use the RST system (Readability, Strength, Tone) for signal reports during contacts, especially in contests or DX (long-distance) communications.

Example: "Your signal is 5-9" (perfect readability, very strong signal).

Braeden says, "For GMRS... USE ALL THE 10 CODES!!! 😈"