Ham Amateur Radio Technician Practice Exam 2026 – The Complete All-in-One Guide to Exam Success

The correct choice involves the procedure known as calling CQ, which is a standard practice in amateur radio for establishing contact with any station. When you repeat "CQ" a few times followed by "this is" and then your call sign, you are effectively inviting any operator who hears your call to respond. "CQ" specifically signals to all amateurs that you are seeking a conversation, and the format you specified is a clear way to identify yourself to potential respondents.

This method is widely recognized and used in amateur radio to initiate a contact, regardless of the specific nature of the communication or the type of equipment used. It conveys not only your call sign but also your intention to communicate, which is pivotal for successful HF operations.

The other options do not serve the same purpose. For instance, transmitting your call sign continuously would not provide enough information for others to realize you're inviting a conversation. Sending a series of QRZ calls is typically used to solicit responses when you are trying to find a specific station rather than indicating you desire any contact. Broadcasting your frequency and location does not indicate intent to make contact; rather, it might be used for informational purposes but lacks the direct communication invitation that calling CQ provides.