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11-01-2007, 09:25 PM
This article is from the ARRL.
Your QSL Cards
When Amateur Radio operators contact other stations, whether in some far flung location or relatively nearby, they often exchange QSL cards. QSL is a Morse code (CW) abbreviation for “I acknowledge receipt.” The cards sent back and forth provide proof of that contact, sometimes needed to qualify for various awards. An exchange of QSL cards also may follow a particularly enjoyable contact, or QSO.
Many types of QSL cards are available from commercial suppliers. There’s no one proper way to format the information they contain, although certain basic information is considered de rigueur. Cards may be simple black-and-white or multicolor design. The cost of run-of-the-mill QSL cards is something on the order of $20 US per 100, although prices vary widely. Cards will be less expensive if you order greater quantities and/or if they’re printed in one color. Some professionally printed multicolor glossy-finish cards are so impressive they might be considered works of art! Of course, these cost more. Unfortunately, most QSL recipients look at a card once, answer in kind if necessary then file it away in a box or drawer. The only time QSLs may again see the light of day is if they’re required as proof of contact for DXCC, WAS or other certificate or award.
Full Story (http://www.arrl.org/news/features/2007/11/01/2/?nc=1)
Your QSL Cards
When Amateur Radio operators contact other stations, whether in some far flung location or relatively nearby, they often exchange QSL cards. QSL is a Morse code (CW) abbreviation for “I acknowledge receipt.” The cards sent back and forth provide proof of that contact, sometimes needed to qualify for various awards. An exchange of QSL cards also may follow a particularly enjoyable contact, or QSO.
Many types of QSL cards are available from commercial suppliers. There’s no one proper way to format the information they contain, although certain basic information is considered de rigueur. Cards may be simple black-and-white or multicolor design. The cost of run-of-the-mill QSL cards is something on the order of $20 US per 100, although prices vary widely. Cards will be less expensive if you order greater quantities and/or if they’re printed in one color. Some professionally printed multicolor glossy-finish cards are so impressive they might be considered works of art! Of course, these cost more. Unfortunately, most QSL recipients look at a card once, answer in kind if necessary then file it away in a box or drawer. The only time QSLs may again see the light of day is if they’re required as proof of contact for DXCC, WAS or other certificate or award.
Full Story (http://www.arrl.org/news/features/2007/11/01/2/?nc=1)