1x1 Call Signs

To better understand the 1x1 system, think of a 1x1 call sign like a temporary parade banner. While anyone can host a “special event” (a parade) and use their standard identification, only those who go through the official coordination process can carry the specialized, highly visible “1x1 banner” to make sure they stand out in the crowd.

History and Protocol of Special Event 1x1 Call Signs

Overview and History

The FCC authorized the use of one-by-one (1x1) format amateur radio station call signs to help operators call attention “on-air” to their participation in events of significance. This system, implemented in August 1997, meets the needs of operators for temporary station identification during short-term events like conventions, festivals, anniversaries, or even local celebrations.

A 1x1 call sign consists of a single prefix letter (K, N, or W), a region number (0 to 9), and a single suffix letter (A to Z, excluding X). There are 750 such call signs available in the system.

The 1x1 and Special Event Relationship

It is important to understand the specific regulatory relationship between these designations:

  • 1x1 call signs must be a special event station: These specific short-format call signs are reserved exclusively for use in conjunction with events of special significance to the amateur service community.
  • Special event stations do not have to use 1x1 call signs: While many do, a special event station can use other formats or international prefixes, such as GB13COL, WM3PEN, or TM13COL.

For the Activator: How to Get and Use a 1x1 Call Sign

1. Reservation Process

Any licensed amateur radio operator, regardless of license class, may reserve a 1x1 call sign.

  • Timing: Reservations can be made up to one year (365 days) in advance on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Duration: The maximum length of use is 15 days.

  • Coordinators: You must contact one of the five FCC-certified volunteer coordinators to approve and post the reservation to the common database:

    • ARRL
    • W5YI Group Inc.
    • Western Carolina Amateur Radio Society (WCARS/VEC)
    • W4VEC Volunteer Examiners Club of America
    • Laurel Amateur Radio Club

  • Fees: FCC application fees do not apply to 1x1 call signs.

2. Information Required for Application

While amateurs of any license class may reserve a 1x1 call sign, the call sign itself does not grant any additional frequency or mode privileges.

When requesting a call sign via the 1x1callsigns.org portal, you must provide:

  1. The requested 1x1 call sign (you may list up to 10 in order of preference).
  2. Beginning and ending dates (not to exceed 15 days).
  3. The name of the special event (30-character limit).
  4. Your legal name, current station call sign, mailing address, phone number, and email.

3. Publicize your event

  • Spread the word about your special event on social media.
  • Include details like planned operating dates/times, bands and modes of operation.

4. On-Air Operation and Identification

Once assigned, the 1x1 call sign is substituted for your assigned call sign during the event.

  • Mandatory Identification: You must transmit your FCC-assigned call sign at least once per hour.

  • Examples: On CW, this might look like W0O/K9ZTV. On SSB, you would say W0O SLASH K0EMT.

  • Self-Assigned Indicators: Operators may also append non-1x1 indicators to their own call signs (e.g., W1AW/national convention), provided they do not conflict with foreign prefixes or specific FCC indicators.

  • The operating privileges are the same as those of the operator or control operator.

  • Identifying the Source: This hourly requirement exists to make the source of the transmissions known to those receiving them. If a station is operating on frequencies reserved for Extra Class licensees, the identification must reflect the call sign of the operator whose license grants that authority.

  • Operating as a Team: Say you have a Technician working with an Extra class control operator on frequencies outside of Technician privileges. Because the Extra Class control operator is providing the legal authority for the transmission, their call sign is the one that validates the station’s presence on those specific frequencies. Use the Extra Class operator’s call sign to identify with the 1x1 station call sign.

For the Hunter: How to Find and Work Special Event Stations

If you are looking to contact these unique stations, use the following resources:

  • Official Databases: Search the One-by-One Database at 1x1callsigns.org to see which 1x1 signs are currently active.
  • The ARRL’s directory includes 1x1 and other special event calls.
  • Publications: Check the monthly lists of upcoming special events published in QST magazine.
  • Online Forums: The QRZ Special Events sub-forum is a major hub for announcements regarding special events.
  • Notable Events: Straight Key Month, 13 Colonies, 12 Days of Christmas, Halloween Fun Expedition W0O, W9G Godzilla, W9IMS (Indy 500).
  • Spotting Networks: