CQ in Morse Code
-.-. --.-
"CQ" is the general call that opens countless radio contacts — it means "calling any station" or "seeking a contact." When a ham wants to talk to whoever is listening, they send "CQ CQ CQ" and then their call sign, inviting any operator on frequency to reply. In Morse it's -.-. --.- . CQ predates the formal Q-codes and remains one of the most-sent groups in all of amateur radio.
Letter-by-Letter Breakdown
| Letter | Morse | Sound (di / dah) |
|---|---|---|
| C | -.-. | dah-di-dah-dit |
| Q | --.- | dah-dah-di-dah |
Two letters: C is -.-. (dash-dot-dash-dot) and Q is --.- (dash-dash-dot-dash). Both are dash-heavy and built from alternating long and short signals, which gives CQ a strong, rhythmic, almost musical lilt. That distinctive cadence is part of why it cuts through and is instantly recognized by listening operators.
How to Send “CQ” in Morse Code
To call CQ, an operator sends "CQ CQ CQ DE" followed by their call sign, repeated, then listens for replies. It's how most CW contacts begin. Sending a clean, well-paced CQ is a point of pride among operators. CQ is not a Q-code despite its letters — it's older — but it's the universal "anyone there?" of the airwaves.
Type it
Enter "CQ" in any Morse translator to see -.-. --.- appear instantly — the fastest way to check the pattern.
Tap it
Tap the rhythm on a hand or table: short taps for dots, longer presses for dashes, with a clear pause between letters.
Blink it
Signal it with your eyes or a subtle nod — quick for a dot, held for a dash — a silent way to pass "CQ" across a room.
Flash it
Use a flashlight or phone light: a brief flash is a dot, a long flash is a dash. Press Play above to hear the timing first.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is "CQ" in Morse code?+
"CQ" in Morse code is -.-. --.- , spelling C (dash-dot-dash-dot) and Q (dash-dash-dot-dash). It means "calling any station" — the general call an operator sends to invite anyone listening to reply and start a contact.
What does "calling CQ" mean in ham radio?+
"Calling CQ" means broadcasting an open invitation for a contact. The operator sends "CQ CQ CQ" followed by their call sign and listens for any station to answer. It's the standard way to start a conversation on the air when you don't have a specific station in mind.
Is CQ a Q-code in Morse code?+
No, despite starting with a C and Q. CQ actually predates the Q-code system, having carried over from earlier landline and wireless telegraphy. It's thought to come from the French "sécurité" or simply "seek you." True Q-codes are three letters beginning with Q, like QRZ or QTH.
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