# Maidenhead to Coordinates

Convert Maidenhead locator system to latitude and longitude (used by amateur radio operators)

> Canonical page: https://elysiatools.com/en/tools/maidenhead-to-coords

- **Category:** Geography

- **Keywords:** maidenhead, locator, grid, amateur, radio, coordinates, qth, decode

## Overview

The Maidenhead to Coordinates tool converts amateur radio grid locator codes into precise latitude and longitude values. It's designed for operators who need to decode QTH locators for accurate location tracking, logging, and communication planning.

## Inputs

- **Maidenhead Locator** (text): Enter Maidenhead locator (e.g., FN31pr)...

## When to use

- When decoding a Maidenhead locator received during a radio contact to obtain geographic coordinates.
- For inputting station locations into logging software or mapping applications based on grid squares.
- To verify or standardize location data in amateur radio databases or records.

## How it works

- Enter the Maidenhead locator code (e.g., FN31pr) into the input field.
- The tool decodes the locator using the standard Maidenhead grid system algorithm.
- Output is generated in JSON format, providing latitude and longitude in decimal degrees.

## Use cases

- Logging amateur radio contacts with precise latitude and longitude for accurate record-keeping.
- Creating maps of station locations for club events or emergency communication planning.
- Integrating locator decoding into custom scripts or applications for radio data processing.

## Frequently asked questions

### What is a Maidenhead locator?

A Maidenhead locator is a geocode system used by amateur radio operators to denote locations on Earth with a short alphanumeric string, often called a grid square.

### How accurate is the coordinate conversion?

Accuracy depends on the locator length; a 6-character locator like 'FN31pr' typically provides coordinates accurate to within a few kilometers.

### Can I convert multiple locators at once?

No, this tool processes one locator at a time for simplicity and accuracy.

### What format is the output in?

The output is in JSON format, containing keys for latitude and longitude as decimal numbers.

### Is this tool suitable for real-time radio operations?

Yes, it provides quick conversions ideal for logging contacts or planning communications during amateur radio activities.

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