TOP 5 frequencies are:
- 3570->3566
- 7040->7036 (Region 3: 7030>7026)
- 10130->10126
- 14070->14066
- 18095->18091
- 21070->21066
- 24915->24911
- 28070->28066
These are the TOP 5 kHz of each exclusive CW band section.
These frequency ranges are also called the Friendship section of the band. Those looking for a relaxed QSO or who are nervous CW operators or new to CW, are most welcome here.
Note in the above table they are presented from the highest to the lowest of each TOP 5 because we are encouraged to start tuning from the highest to the lowest when looking for CQ calls or finding a clear frequency, so as to suitably occupy the top end of the band, with most 5NN-TU operations taking the opposite approach: working from the bottom end up.
The upper section of the CW bands also puts us at an advantage since most amateur radio stations will have antennas that are more resonant on larger bands such as 80, 20, 15, 10m and thus more efficient at the top end resulting in better Signal to Noise ratio in QSO.
The TOP 5 are used especially for QTT activities and by all QTT CW Operators.
All TOP 5 QSO also qualify for TOP9 monthly tables.
“TOP 5” ACTIVITIES
There are a growing number of “TOP 5” activities, please participate in them!
AGCW-DL has organized a “Friendship Activity“. You can send in logs if you wish, the aim is not competition, but simply having more and longer QSO in the TOP 5 (see frequency ranges above).
Over the years there have been many calls for “HF CW Calling Frequencies”. Indeed the founder of FISTS intended the FISTS frequencies to be calling frequencies, with QSY after establishing QSO. This did not however materialize, although it was successful some years ago in VK with 7050.
With this in mind, QSX Calling Frequencies have been launched!
In general those with rigs that support scanning could switch in narrow filter and scan the TOP 5 (or TOP 9) automatically with squelch, so that stronger signals will break it open or standby on QSX.
When arranging skeds or nets, please use QSX Calling Frequencies if available and then TOP 5.
We must increase Friendship Activity and TOP 5 is the best place to do this, out of the way of “5NN TU” and “A1B” and contests, we also need to occupy and thus defend our TOP 5 before we lose them yet again.
Already there are several efforts from the non-CW officials dominating the major western IARU National Societies to reduce CW bands even further. Be active in TOP 5, and you can also join our Announcement Lists as well as join email discussion lists. This can aid in promoting activities and arrangements between CW operators.
Those who are members of clubs and Email lists, please promote this page and TOP 5 activities by sending it to those lists, and advocating for those clubs to also adopt and promote TOP 5 or at least TOP 9 activity. See here for other ways you can help.