In the early 1900s, Q-codes were developed as a standardized set of three-letter codes starting with “Q” to facilitate concise and clear communication in radiotelegraphy, especially in international maritime and amateur radio communications. These codes were designed to convey complex information quickly and efficiently, reducing the need for lengthy messages and overcoming language barriers. For example, “QRM” indicates interference from other signals, while “QRZ” asks, “Who is calling me?” The Q-codes became widely adopted in the amateur radio community, enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring effective communication, and continue to be used today in both voice and Morse code transmissions.
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