<![CDATA[QSL Exchange Forum - Getting Started]]> https://forum.qslexchange.com/ Sat, 17 Oct 2026 04:46:04 +0000 MyBB <![CDATA[Ask anything: your first QSO]]> https://forum.qslexchange.com/thread-6.html Sun, 04 Oct 2026 08:16:05 +0200 QSL Exchange]]> https://forum.qslexchange.com/thread-6.html
This thread is for all those questions. And to everyone with a few years on the air: what do you remember about your first contact?]]>
This thread is for all those questions. And to everyone with a few years on the air: what do you remember about your first contact?]]> <![CDATA[What is a QSL card, and how do hams exchange them?]]> https://forum.qslexchange.com/thread-5.html Sun, 04 Oct 2026 08:14:20 +0200 QSL Exchange]]> https://forum.qslexchange.com/thread-5.html What is a QSL card?

A QSL card confirms a contact (QSO) between two stations. It lists both call signs, the date, time (UTC), band, mode and signal report. Many operators collect them, and they are needed for awards such as DXCC or WAS.

The common ways to exchange QSLs
  • Direct: you mail your card straight to the other station, often with return postage.
  • Bureau: your national society collects and forwards cards in bulk. Cheap, but it can take months or years.
  • Electronic: services like LoTW, eQSL and QRZ confirm contacts online.
  • NetQSL on QSLExchange: you design your own digital card and send it directly from your logbook.

New to QSLs or not sure which way to go? Ask below. Experienced operators, please share your tips!]]> What is a QSL card?

A QSL card confirms a contact (QSO) between two stations. It lists both call signs, the date, time (UTC), band, mode and signal report. Many operators collect them, and they are needed for awards such as DXCC or WAS.

The common ways to exchange QSLs
  • Direct: you mail your card straight to the other station, often with return postage.
  • Bureau: your national society collects and forwards cards in bulk. Cheap, but it can take months or years.
  • Electronic: services like LoTW, eQSL and QRZ confirm contacts online.
  • NetQSL on QSLExchange: you design your own digital card and send it directly from your logbook.

New to QSLs or not sure which way to go? Ask below. Experienced operators, please share your tips!]]>