Q-code · CW operating
QRL in Morse code
The standard 'is this frequency in use?' courtesy check before transmitting on a clear-sounding frequency.
Morse rendering
--.- .-. .-..
QRL sent as a normal three-letter group (inter-letter gaps included).
As a question
QRL? — Are you busy / is this frequency in use?
As an answer
QRL — I am busy / this frequency is in use. Please do not interfere.
When this is used
Always send QRL? before calling CQ on what you think is an empty frequency. A weak DX station you can't hear may be calling. Many regulars answer with just C (yes) or QRL.
Examples
| On the air | Plain English |
|---|---|
| QRL? | Is this frequency in use? |
| QRL | Yes, it's in use. |
| C | Yes (short for 'confirm'). |
Keep reading
Related Q-codes
QRG — Asks for or states a precise transmit frequency, usually in kHz or MHz.QRK — Asks the receiving station to rate how readable your signal is on the standard 1–5 scale.QRO — Used as a verb on amateur CW: 'go QRO' means switch to a high-power amplifier; opposite of QRP.QRP — Decrease power, or — as a noun — low-power CW operating (≤ 5 W output).