Definition of an Amateur Radio QSO

Following the recent Vienna Conference, the following has been introduced into the newly released IARU Region-1 VHF Manual v5.21

6 OPERATING PROCEDURES
6.1 Minimum Requirement for a valid QSO (Vienna 2007)

A definition for a valid QSO on VHF and on higher bands is:-

A valid contact is one where both operators during the contact have
(1) mutually identified each other
(2) received a report, and
(3) received a confirmation of the successful identification and the reception of the report.

It is emphasized that the responsibility always lies with the
operator for the integrity of the contact.

It should be noted that this is 'technology neutral' and applies to all analogue and digital modes.

VHF-UHF-uW Papers for IARU Region 1 Interim Conference – Vienna 2007
http://www.southgatearc.org/news/
december2006/vienna_papers.htm

IARU Region-1 VHF Managers Manual
http://www.iaru-r1.org/C5%20committee.htm