What does QRP Mean?

  • QRP simply means transmitting on the Amateur Radio Bands using low power
  • Usually QRP power is 5 watts or less when using CW or other digital modes, while 10 watts or less is generally considered QRP when operating on SSB
  • There is a great sense of accomplishment when you make contacts, sometimes using very simple transmitters or transceivers, at QRP power levels
  • QRP can be used with virtually any mode. The new digital modes implemented through use of computer sound cards work very well using QRP power levels
  • QRPp usually refers to low power operation when the power of the transmitter is below 1 watt.
Here's an example of a QRPp transceiver. Actually smaller than a pack of cigarettes. The transceiver is named the "Rock Mite" and is a design by Small Wonder Labs. The kit (less case, jacks and controls) is about $27 and can be ordered for 20 meters or 40 meters. The standard power output is 500 milliwatts, however by swapping a few components (final, resistor and choke) you can raise the power output from between 1/2 to 1 watt.

Inside_the_Rock_MiteRock_Mite_in_American_Morse

This Rock Mite has been modified with a different final than the stock 2N2222A and will output about 750 milliwatts. I have worked over 10 states with this transceiver using nothing more than this, a 12 volt battery and a Butternut vertical antenna. The farthest state being Arizona (from Ohio). It only operates on two frequencies just around the standard QRP calling frequecy of 14.060. My next project is the 40 meter version.