[CW] AR or K after CQ

[Ken Brown]

>
> Having said that, I agree with the numerous observations in this thread that
> this is AMATEUR radio, so who really gives a rip how you terminate a CQ?
>
>   
CW Prosigns, Q signals and other abbreviations used in CW operations act 
as a form of data compression. By using these methods we can exchange 
more information in less time with less effort. This only works if the 
meanings of the prosigns, Q signals and abbreviations are known, 
understood and agreed upon by the operators at both ends of the 
circuit.(or all of the operators in a net, or "reading the mail"). By 
learning the proper use of these prosigns, Q signals and abbreviations 
we can become more effective CW operators. Some of us do give a rip.

Does this mean we should refuse to have a QSO with someone who seems to 
not understand the proper use and meanings, or who has a different 
understanding of them than we do? Absolutely not! Should not knowing all 
the details keep someone from getting on the air and making QSO? 
Absolutely not! Does it mean we should lecture to another operator about 
our understanding of the proper meanings and use? Not without being 
invited to do so by someone who is interested.

When someone does ask a question about the details of correct use of 
prosigns, Q signals and abbreviations, I take that as an opportunity to 
help that person and myself develop our operating skills. I can learn by 
pondering the questions, looking for answers, and seeing how it applies 
to my operating. The other operator may learn something new, and I my 
learn something correctly that I had previously learned incorrectly  .

It doesn't matter much to me if someone sends "MY NAME IS DAVE". I will 
respond with "OP KEN". If Dave doesn't already understand that, he will 
probably eventually figure out that it means "the operator's name is 
Ken". I will not tell Dave he is wrong to spell it out, letter for 
letter. It is not "wrong". Using the abbreviated form is more efficient, 
and can get a QSO moving more quickly along, in to more interesting 
topics. By using prosigns, Q signals and abbreviations we can exchange 
more interesting information in the same time and band conditions, or 
perhaps complete a basic QSO in less time and poorer band conditions.

73 DE N6KB K