I did quite a bit of operating at QRP power levels (5 Watts) in 2013. It is great fun to make contacts at low power and it is truly amazing how far one can communicate on only 5 watts of power. QRP operating is also a great way to improve one’s operating skills. I recently discovered an award run by the QRP Amateur Radio Club International called the 1,000 Mile Per Watt Award. I completed a QRP DXCC Award in 2013 so I have quite a few DX QSO’s at QRP power levels. After looking at my log, I discovered that my longest QRP CW contact was with Alan Taylor, VK7BO in Tasmania, Australia – some 10,470 miles from our station. I used this contact to apply for the 1,000 Mile Per Watt Award you see above. This award will make a nice addition to the wall in our shack.
– Fred (AB1OC)