In recent years, I have operated under several special-event callsigns, which, of course, have attracted a lot of attention, including requests for QSL cards. I have noted that some people have made some basic errors when sending cards. They include:
- not following instructions on QRZ.com
- incorrect information on the QSL card, e.g wrong date, wrong mode
- missing information on the card, e.g. no full date
In recent times I have delivered some presentations via Zoom to USA amateur radio clubs on QSL cards. The presentation includes:
- what is a QSL card
- what does QSL mean
- history of QSL cards
- types of QSL cards
- Choosing a QSL card
- What does a QSL card contain
- some basics when filling out a card
- QSL instructions
- QSL Bureaus
- Tips when sending direct
- OQRS
- some historic QSL cards
If any club is interested in me delivering the presentation, please drop me an email to simmopa@gmail.com. I would be very happy to speak with your club.
A QSL card is more than just a piece of ‘wallpaper.’ It is a permanent record of a radio contact and, in many circumstances, documentary evidence supporting an amateur radio award. A little care in completing the card can make all the difference.
Which brings me to my final comment…..electronic QSL cards via email.
With the increasing popularity of electronic QSL cards, some amateur radio operators have adopted the practice of emailing JPEG or PDF copies of their QSL cards rather than sending traditional printed cards through the postal system or QSL bureau. While these cards are often attractive, they are generally not accepted for amateur radio awards, e.g. ARRL DXCC,
