SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/hamg-g8c02

Which digital mode is used as a low-power beacon to assess HF propagation?

WSPR.

Start playing free

  1. MFSK16
  2. WSPR ✔
  3. PSK31

Why: WSPR is the digital mode used as a low-power beacon for assessing HF propagation. The others, such as PSK31 and MFSK16, are modes for exchanging messages.

Huh, didn't know that: On a waterfall display, frequency runs horizontally, signal strength is the intensity, and time runs vertically.

The dad joke
Vegetarian ham radio enthusiasts use a cheese radio.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: WSPR. WSPR is the digital mode used as a low-power beacon for assessing HF propagation. The others, such as PSK31 and MFSK16, are modes for exchanging messages.

  1. NCVEC 2023-2027 General Class Pool and Syllabus (6th Errata, Feb 4 2026) ncvec.org/downloads/General%20Class%20Pool%20and%20Syllabus%202023-2027%20Public%20Release%20with%206th%20Errata%20Feb%204%202026.pdf
    Which digital mode is used as a low-power beacon for assessing HF propagation? A. WSPR
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. NCVEC 2023-2027 General Class Pool and Syllabus (6th Errata, Feb 4 2026) ncvec.org/downloads/General%20Class%20Pool%20and%20Syllabus%202023-2027%20Public%20Release%20with%206th%20Errata%20Feb%204%202026.pdf
    Frequency is horizontal, signal strength is intensity, time is vertical
    Checked 2026-10-11.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Ham RadioWhy should you normally avoid transmitting on 14.100, 18.110, 21.150, 24.930 and 28.200 MHz?Ham RadioWhat is the maximum power for an amateur beacon station?Ham RadioHow do you aim a beam antenna for a long-path contact?

That's stuff everyone should know.