Any QRP operators here?

[M_anstrom]

Just curious how many other Hams on here operate QRP. I have a Yaesu FT817 and Rock Mite 40M (with a matching long wire tuner I made in Jr. High that mounts in an Altoids can) that I use.
For he non-hams on here, QRP is basically operating with bare minimal power. In a survival situation the ability to operate on lower power has obvious benefits.

Anyhow, how many of you are QRPers?

[TacAir]

An 817 and PSK 31 is my primary BO commo.

Check this thread for pics
viewtopic.php?f=42&t=81784&hilit=glacier+bug+TacAir

[aa1pr]

Only time I run QRP is on PSK31, life is too short for QRP...even though I have worked many stations in this mode, I failed to make just as many otherwise

[rakkFO]

I play QRP most of the time. I use the 817 and buddipole antenna or ParEndfed antennas if i am not using a number of my homebrew attempts at an antenna.

KD8BKB

[mikester]

I play with QRP but plan everything around my 897D and having 100 watts on tap if needed.

I have had 5,000 mile QSOs on 5 watts, but the nature of QSOs is inherently random. You talk to whomever you can get to hear you at that moment. After the dead start walking I think nets and schedules will become more productive means of communication, where you need to communicate with specific people at specific times. 5W might not cut it then. We see that locally with our little NVIS NBEMS net when the band is noisy.

No denying that QRP skills strengthen skill with higher-wattage communications though. Efficiency is important no matter how much juice you are running.

[44Dave]

NBEMS

I did not know about this. Thanks.

[MontanaCZ]

I have been an avid QRP'r since high school when I build my first Heathkit HW-9 (and a few other crystal radios). I currently run a TS-430S that my dad bought me when I finished college, but I just turn the power down. I do need to work my code speed back up, but digital is so much fun!!

-CZ