Скачать или смотреть REVEALED: Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About The QSL Bureau

Amateur radio operators (hams) have a long tradition of confirming their contacts through QSL cards - written confirmations of radio communications between stations. These QSL cards are physical proof of two-way radio communication between ham operators. For those collecting confirmations for awards or simply as mementos, there are different methods to exchange these cards, with the QSL Bureau system being one of the most popular.

What is the QSL Bureau?

The QSL Bureau system consists of national-level clearinghouses that handle the bulk exchange of QSL cards between different countries. These bureaus are typically operated by each country's main amateur radio organization and serve as central collection and distribution points for international QSL cards.

How the Bureau System Works

The bureau system operates on a simple principle - cards are collected, sorted, and sent in bulk to reduce costs. When you want to send cards via the bureau:

You submit your outgoing QSL cards to your national bureau

The bureau sorts these cards by destination country

When sufficient cards accumulate for a particular country, they're sent in bulk to that country's incoming bureau

The receiving bureau then sorts the cards by callsign and distributes them to their members

The National Capitol DX Association explains that this system involves exchanging physical QSL cards following a QSO (contact) between operators.

Bureau vs. Direct QSLing: Advantages and Disadvantages

Bureau Advantages:

Cost-Effective: The bureau system is the least expensive way to collect QSL cards, as you're only paying for cards and occasionally a small handling fee.

Volume: You can send and receive many cards without worrying about individual postage costs.

Simplicity: No need to research individual mailing addresses or include return postage.

Bureau Disadvantages:

Time: Bureau cards can take months or even years to arrive at their destination.

Success Rate: According to experiences shared by hams, the bureau system has a lower success rate than direct QSLing.

Requirements: Both operators need to be bureau users or subscribers.

Direct QSLing Advantages:

Speed: Direct QSLs typically result in quicker returns.

Higher Success Rate: Some operators report direct QSLing has a success rate of around 63% compared to much lower rates via bureau.

Certainty: You know exactly who you're sending to and when.

Direct QSLing Disadvantages:

Cost: International postage adds up quickly, especially when including return postage (often in IRCs or "green stamps").

Research: You must find the operator's mailing address or QSL manager information.

Electronic Alternatives

While physical QSL cards remain popular, many operators now use electronic confirmation systems like Logbook of the World (LoTW) or eQSL. These provide instant confirmation without the cost or delay of physical cards, though many hams still appreciate the charm and collectible nature of physical QSL cards.

Conclusion

The QSL Bureau system offers a cost-effective way to exchange confirmation cards, albeit with longer delivery times. For rare contacts or when quick confirmation is needed, direct QSLing remains the more reliable option. Many experienced operators use a combination of both methods, sending via bureau for routine contacts and directly for special or rare stations, creating a balanced approach to this important aspect of amateur radio culture.

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