ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Q code

Q codes are like secret codes that help people in the radio world communicate with each other quickly and easily. They were first created a long time ago, when people had to use radios to talk to each other before telephones were invented.

Think of Q codes like a secret club password or handshake. Everyone who is part of the club or knows the password can use it to talk to other club members or friends who know the handshake.

So, Q codes are used for quick and clear communication. They are made up of a letter Q followed by a number, and people use them to ask or answer questions, give information, or even tell jokes!

For example, if someone says "QTH?" on the radio, they are using the Q code to ask "What is your location?" Another person might respond by saying "QTH is New York City."

Some other examples of Q codes include:

- QSO (Who are you talking to?)
- QSL (Can you confirm that I received your message?)
- QRM (Is there interference on the signal?)
- QRP (I am transmitting with low power)

In short, Q codes are codes that people in the radio world use to communicate with each other quickly and effectively, kind of like a secret language only they can understand.