Introducing RTQM, QRZ's Real Time QSO Manager

Introducing RTQM, the Real Time QSO Manager

From the QRZ Labs - July 24, 2025

QRZ is pleased to announce a new upcoming feature, called the Real-Time QSO Manager, or RTQM for short. What is RTQM? Think of it as a spotting network, except that it's not based on random reports and observations but rather real-time user input. It's a way to call CQ silently, as well as a way to know exactly when stations are standing by. Calling CQ can be a frustrating experience. Since any of us can operate on thousands of frequencies and modes, it's just a random shot to call CQ out on the bands. By calling CQ, you're hoping that someone, anyone, will hear you. For that to happen, however, someone must stumble upon your call by happenstance, and possibly not during a time when you're listening.

That all fades into the past with RTQM. With this new feature, YOU put yourself on the world map indicating your mode and frequency, and then just wait for someone to call! You don't have to call CQ at all, because you've effectively done that through RTQM.

With RTQM, users can see who's available on all bands and all modes simultaneously. Rather than searching the bands endlessly for a weak signal, use RTQM to tune directly to the frequency and start listening.

Here's how it works: A QRZ user posts a "I'm here!" message on the RTQM server that indicates his mode, frequency, and location. These messages appear as pins on a world map that are visible to all other users. The "I'm here!" pin on the map lasts only 30 minutes, so you know the information is fresh. Users can refresh their pin if they're still listening on the same frequency. Other operators hearing or working the user also have the ability to indicate such and refresh the pin as well

We have many exciting plans for this feature and will initiate an initial Beta Testing phase shortly. Those who are interested in trying out new features and providing feedback on their use should comment on the thread and then we'll be in touch with more information. Please be aware that during the beta test phase, you may encounter a few issues with the software. The purpose of the beta phase is to identify and fix these issues before the general rollout of the service.

 

Thanks everyone. I have you three on the list. I'll respond to the thread periodically to verify who I've seen. As soon as we're ready for you to start testing, I'll be sending out an email with detailed instructions on access and use. We appreciate your willingness to help!

73, Steve KF8KI

 

Thanks everyone. I have everyone above this point on the list. I'll respond to the thread periodically to verify who I've seen. As soon as we're ready for you to start testing, I'll be sending out an email with detailed instructions on access and use of the new feature. We appreciate your willingness to help!

73, Steve KF8KI