The difference between CQ and CQ DX, although it's just a different callsign, the two words "DX" have different meanings for everyone. So, what exactly is "DX"?
According to the "ARRL Handbook for Amateurs," DX refers to a shortened form of "distant" or "foreign." In the "JARL Handbook for Amateurs," DX is defined as a shortened form of "distant communication." While everyone uses similar definitions, the key term is "distant." Generally, the most widely accepted definition among amateur radio operators is that DX refers to distances beyond the operator's own DXCC status. Extending this concept, the commonly understood DX on shortwave refers to stations from outside one's own continent (for example, when using CQ DX calls in JTDX, the software automatically ignores responses from local stations). While this definition of "distant" seems clear and straightforward, I would like to add a few points to help amateur radio enthusiasts understand how others view the use of DX.
1、DXCC's rarity
Simply defined by distance, the concept of DX seems clear. However, we haven't considered the value assigned to each DXCC by the community. Some DXCCs are restricted by authorities from amateur radio activity (such as P5/A5/6O), while others are difficult to reach (like BV9Q/3Y0). Still others are simply due to low population density (like JD/M). These DXCCs may be close in distance to BY, for example, South Bird Island is only 3000Ranges from 5,000 km and up, and with a decent antenna, most HF bands should be easily attainable. However, due to the island's prohibition on civilian access, there has only been one person working for the Japan Meteorological Agency operating from the island for many years, and only when they are physically present on the island. This means it takes some time to obtain DXCC status.
Additionally, A5 Bhutan is difficult due to its long-standing ban on amateur radio, unreliable power supply, and a generally unfavorable economic situation. There has been no local HAM operator in Bhutan for many years. It's available on air, but because Bhutan has a relatively high rarity, foreign amateur radio operators (hams) frequently conduct DX expeditions there. Therefore, obtaining it is not particularly difficult.
For these DXCCs, while they may not meet the distance requirements, their rarity makes it worthwhile to call CQ DX (in most cases, DXCCs of this rarity would not give us a chance to call CQ DX, but rather we would need to actively pursue them). Here, you can view the Clublog's ranking table of rare DXCCs, which is based on analysis of past QSO data.https://clublog.org/mostwanted.php。通过其历史上的通联次数来反映DXCC的稀有程度。
2、Bandwidth limitations
While CQ DX is most commonly found on the shortwave band, similar expectations also exist for other bands. For HF, using a distance of 3000-5000 km as a DX boundary is appropriate. However, for tropo propagation on 2m and 70cm, stations like BY-JA, BV, and UA can be considered DXs. This is because their propagation characteristics allow signals to travel several thousand kilometers or even across continents. Achieving such long-distance communication requires specific conditions and the combined effect of multiple propagation methods, which is difficult to achieve otherwise. For example, a signal between BY-JA with a distance of 1000A 3000km link, which we can also consider as a DX (distance) communication link.
If the frequency continues to increase, reaching the microwave band, it is difficult to achieve non-line-of-sight propagation over hundreds or thousands of kilometers due to its very short wavelength, except through methods such as rain scattering and edge scattering. Therefore, the definition of DX distance at this time will further shorten. For example, some world records in several GHz or even dozens/hundreds of GHz still remain at kilometer or even meter levels. At this point, if you can achieve a communication distance that is further than before, it can be considered as a successful DX QSO.
After discussing all of this, the main point I want to convey is that the definition of "DX" doesn't necessarily rely solely on distance. Sometimes, you need to make your own judgment about what constitutes a DX. For example, when we are in the HF band and hear domestic radio stations, or stations from JA and HL calling out for DX, we generally shouldn't respond. However, if we hear a rare station that is relatively close (like P5) calling out for DX, then we should respond to them. There isn't a strict rule here. I hope everyone has fun!
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