Amateur Radio Frequency Allocations Explained

The world of amateur radio frequency allocations can be a bit overwhelming, especially for new hams. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) allocates frequencies for amateur radio use.

There are three main frequency bands for amateur radio: Very High Frequency (VHF), Ultra High Frequency (UHF), and High Frequency (HF). These bands serve different purposes and have their own unique characteristics.

The VHF band, spanning from 30 MHz to 300 MHz, is ideal for short-distance communication, such as local repeaters and simplex communications.

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Amateur radio frequency allocations are divided into various bands, each with its own set of frequencies and usage guidelines. The VHF (Very High Frequency) band spans from 40 to 450 MHz, with different frequency ranges allocated for different purposes, such as 2 meters (144-148 MHz), 6 meters (50-54 MHz), and 70 centimeters (420-450 MHz).

The 2 meter band is a popular frequency range for amateur radio operators, with frequencies allocated for various modes, including CW, phone, image, MCW, RTTY/Data, and more. For example, the frequency range 144.0-144.1 MHz is reserved for CW only, while the range 144.1-148.0 MHz allows for CW, phone, image, MCW, RTTY/Data.

Here's a breakdown of the different frequency ranges allocated for the 2 meter band:

Similarly, the 6 meter band is allocated for frequencies from 50 to 54 MHz, with different frequency ranges reserved for various modes, such as CW, phone, image, MCW, RTTY/Data. For example, the frequency range 50.0-50.1 MHz is reserved for CW only, while the range 50.1-54.0 MHz allows for CW, phone, image, MCW, RTTY/Data.

2 MHz is a pretty low frequency, but it's still widely used in various applications.

It's used in the VHF (Very High Frequency) range, which has a frequency range of 30 MHz to 300 MHz.

The VHF range is commonly used for FM radio broadcasting, which is why you can pick up local radio stations on your car radio.

2 MHz is also used in some medical applications, such as in medical implants and sensors.

These devices typically operate on a low power level and require a low frequency to minimize interference with other devices.

The 2 MHz frequency is also used in some industrial applications, such as in wireless sensors and machine-to-machine communication.

This is because the low frequency allows for reliable communication over long distances with minimal interference.

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The 6 MHz band is a versatile and widely used frequency range. It spans from 50 MHz to 54 MHz, offering a variety of modes and applications.

The CW (Continuous Wave) and beacon subband frequencies are 50.000-50.100 MHz. This range is designated for CW and beacon transmissions.

A beacon subband is allocated between 50.060-50.080 MHz. This range is specifically for beacon transmissions.

The 50.100-50.300 MHz range is open to SSB (Single Sideband) and CW transmissions.

A DX window is available between 50.100-50.125 MHz. This range is for DX (long-distance) transmissions.

The 50.125 MHz frequency is designated for SSB calling. This is a specific frequency for SSB transmissions.

The 50.300-50.600 MHz range is open to all modes of transmission. This range offers a wide range of possibilities for users.

Non-voice communications are allocated between 50.600-50.800 MHz. This range is for data and other non-voice transmissions.

A digital calling frequency is 50.620 MHz. This frequency is specifically for digital (packet) calling.

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Radio remote control (RRC) transmissions are allocated between 50.800-51.000 MHz. This range is for RRC operations using 20-kHz channels.

The Pacific DX window is between 51.000-51.100 MHz. This range is for DX transmissions in the Pacific region.

Repeater inputs are allocated between 51.120-51.480 MHz. This range offers 19 channels for repeater inputs.

Digital repeater inputs are allocated between 51.120-51.180 MHz. This range is specifically for digital repeater inputs.

Simplex frequencies are allocated between 51.500-51.600 MHz. This range offers six channels for simplex operations.

Repeater outputs are allocated between 51.620-51.980 MHz. This range offers 19 channels for repeater outputs.

Digital repeater outputs are allocated between 51.620-51.680 MHz. This range is specifically for digital repeater outputs.

Repeater inputs are allocated between 52.000-52.480 MHz, except as noted. This range offers 23 channels for repeater inputs.

FM simplex frequencies are 52.020 and 52.040 MHz. These frequencies are specifically for FM simplex operations.

A TEST PAIR input frequency is 52.200 MHz. This frequency is for testing purposes.

Repeater outputs are allocated between 52.500-52.980 MHz, except as noted. This range offers 23 channels for repeater outputs.

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Primary and secondary FM simplex frequencies are 52.525 and 52.540 MHz, respectively. These frequencies are specifically for FM simplex operations.

A TEST PAIR output frequency is 52.700 MHz. This frequency is for testing purposes.

Repeater inputs are allocated between 53.000-53.480 MHz, except as noted. This range offers 19 channels for repeater inputs.

A remote base FM simplex frequency is 53.000 MHz. This frequency is specifically for remote base FM simplex operations.

Simplex frequencies are 53.020 MHz and 53.520, 53.900 MHz. These frequencies are for simplex operations.

Radio remote control frequencies are 53.100, 53.200, 53.300, 53.400 MHz. These frequencies are specifically for radio remote control operations.

Repeater outputs are allocated between 53.500-53.980 MHz, except as noted. This range offers 19 channels for repeater outputs.

Radio remote control frequencies are 53.500, 53.600, 53.700, 53.800 MHz. These frequencies are specifically for radio remote control operations.

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CB radios operate on frequencies ranging from 26.965 to 27.405 MHz, with 40 assigned channels. These frequencies are just below the Ham 10-meter band.

CB radios were designed for short-distance communications and are most popular with truckers who use them to report on traffic and weather conditions. They don't require a license and are only lightly monitored by the FCC.

The maximum range of an SSB CB radio is approximately 20 miles, but it requires communicating with another SSB CB to be effective.

Here's a breakdown of the 10-meter band:

These frequencies are broken down into specific designations for different types of communication, including CW, RTTY, phone, image, and more.

The 12-meter band operates on frequencies between 24.890 and 24.930 MHz for CW and RTTY/Data, and 24.930-24.990 MHz for CW, phone, and image.

The 30-meter band has a maximum power of 200 watts PEP, and amateurs must avoid interference to the fixed service outside the US. The frequency range for this band is 10.100-10.150 MHz for CW, RTTY/Data.

The 6-meter band operates on frequencies between 50.0-50.1 MHz for CW only, and 50.1-54.0 MHz for CW, phone, image, MCW, and RTTY/Data.

The 40-meter band operates on frequencies between 7.025-7.125 MHz for CW and RTTY/Data, and 7.175-7.300 MHz for CW and phone.

The 60-meter band has specific frequency allocations for CW, USB, and digital modes, with restrictions on automatic operation and bandwidth.

In the US, Technician licensees have limited privileges below 30 MHz.

Novice/Technician licensees in the US have no allocations in the 80/75 m band. General licensees in the US have allocations in the 80/75 m band, but only in the 3800-4000 kHz range. Advanced and Extra licensees have no allocations in the 80/75 m band.

In Canada, there are no allocations in the 80/75 m band.

In the 60 m band, US licensees are limited to 100 watts PEP ERP relative to a 1/2 wave dipole. Canadian operators are restricted to 100 watts PEP.

Here are the allocations for the 60 m band in the US and Canada:

Basic (hon.) and Code licensees in the US have no allocations in the 60 m band.

In the 30 m band, US licensees are limited to General, Advanced, and Extra licensees, with a power limit of 200 watts PEP. There are no allocations in the 30 m band in Canada.

In the 20 m band, US General licensees have allocations in the 14000-14025 kHz, 14025-14150 kHz, 14150-14175 kHz, 14175-14225 kHz, and 14225-14350 kHz ranges. US Advanced licensees have allocations in the 14000-14025 kHz, 14025-14150 kHz, 14150-14175 kHz, and 14175-14225 kHz ranges. US Extra licensees have allocations in the 14000-14025 kHz and 14025-14150 kHz ranges.

Here are the allocations for the 20 m band in the US and Canada:

There are no allocations in the 20 m band in Canada.

In the 17 m band, US General, Advanced, and Extra licensees have allocations in the 18068-18110 kHz and 18110-18168 kHz ranges.

Here are the allocations for the 17 m band in the US and Canada:

There are no allocations in the 17 m band in Canada.

In the 15 m band, US Novice/Technician licensees have allocations in the 21000-21450 kHz range, but only in the 21000-21025 kHz, 21200-21225 kHz, 21225-21275 kHz, and 21275-21450 kHz ranges. US General licensees have allocations in the 21000-21025 kHz, 21025-21200 kHz, 21200-21225 kHz, 21225-21275 kHz, and 21275-21450 kHz ranges. US Advanced and Extra licensees have allocations in the 21000-21025 kHz, 21025-21200 kHz, and 21200-21225 kHz ranges.

Here are the allocations for the 15 m band in the US and Canada:

There are no allocations in the 15 m band in Canada.

In the 12 m band, US General, Advanced, and Extra licensees have allocations in the 24890-24930 kHz and 24930-24990 kHz ranges.

Here are the allocations for the 12 m band in the US and Canada:

There are no allocations in the 12 m band in Canada.

In the 10 m band, US Novice/Technician licensees have allocations in the 28000-29700 kHz range, but only in the 28000-28300 kHz and 28300-28500 kHz ranges. US General, Advanced, and Extra licensees have allocations in the 28000-28300 kHz, 28300-28500 kHz, and 28500-29700 kHz ranges.

Note that the 10 metre table is one-third scale, relative to the other tables.

Here are the allocations for the 10 m band in the US and Canada:

There are no allocations in the 10 m band in Canada.

International allocations for amateur radio frequencies are governed by the ITU, which has designated certain bands for use by amateurs worldwide.

The 20-meter band is a popular choice for amateur radio operators, with frequencies ranging from 14 MHz to 14.35 MHz.

In the US, the FCC allocates the 20-meter band for amateur use, with a power limit of 1.5 kW.

The 30-meter band is also allocated for amateur use, with frequencies ranging from 10.1 MHz to 10.15 MHz.

Amateur radio operators in the US can use the 30-meter band with a power limit of 1.5 kW.

The ITU has designated the 40-meter band for amateur use, with frequencies ranging from 7 MHz to 7.3 MHz.

The 40-meter band is a favorite among amateur radio operators, offering a good compromise between propagation and band congestion.

Amateur radio operators in the US can use the 40-meter band with a power limit of 1.5 kW.

The 80-meter band is allocated for amateur use, with frequencies ranging from 3.5 MHz to 4 MHz.

The 80-meter band is a popular choice for long-distance communication, offering good propagation characteristics.

Amateur radio operators in the US can use the 80-meter band with a power limit of 1.5 kW.

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A channel is a number assigned to a specific frequency to simplify it for amateur radio operators. This makes it easier to remember and use specific frequencies.

Channels on the 60-meter band, for example, are 2.8-kHz-wide and are granted to hams on a secondary basis. Amateurs must assure that their signal is transmitted on the channel center frequency and can only cause interference to and must accept interference from Primary Government users.

The channel center frequencies for the 60-meter band are as follows:

A channel is not the same thing as a frequency. A frequency is a specific wavelength of a known signal, whereas a channel is a number assigned to a specific frequency to simplify it for operators. Think of it like a radio station - instead of tuning into 146.520MHz, you just need to know it's Channel 1.

To understand channels, it's essential to know that they're a way to organize frequencies. On the 60-meter band, for example, there are five specific channels that amateurs can use on a secondary basis. These channels are 2.8-kHz-wide and have a specific center frequency.

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The FCC requires hams to set their carrier frequency 1.5 kHz lower than the channel center frequency to avoid interference with primary government users. This means that amateurs should tune their radios to the following frequencies:

Remember, these are the specific frequencies that amateurs can use on a secondary basis, and they must be used with the correct power levels and modes.

Odd Split Pairs are a type of repeater pair used in amateur radio.

These pairs operate on non-600 kHz input frequencies, as seen in the Established Area "Odd Split" repeater pairs listed in the Area Repeater Coordination Council, Inc (AARC) section.

The input and output frequencies for these pairs are carefully coordinated to ensure efficient communication. For example, the input frequency 147.585 is paired with the output frequency 144.930 for portable repeaters.

Here's a breakdown of the Odd Split Pairs listed in the AARC section:

These pairs are an essential part of amateur radio communication, allowing hams to stay connected and share information across different frequencies.

The Sub Bandplan 144.5-145.5 MHz is managed by the New England Spectrum Management Council (NESMC).

This sub bandplan is specific to the 144.5-145.5 MHz frequency range.

The NESMC is responsible for overseeing the management of this sub bandplan.

Here is a list of key facts about this sub bandplan:

The maximum power output for amateur radio transmissions is 1500 watts PEP, unless otherwise noted.

Novice and Technician licensees are limited to 200 watts PEP on HF bands.

Geographical power restrictions apply to the 630 meter, 70 centimeter, 33 centimeter, and 23 centimeter bands.

To operate on 2200 or 630 meters, amateurs must first register with the Utilities Technology Council online.

General, Advanced, and Amateur Extra licensees have specific power limits for certain frequency bands.

The maximum power limit for 135.7-137.8 kHz is 1 W EIRP, while for 472-479 kHz it's 5 W EIRP, except in Alaska within 496 miles of Russia where it's 1 W EIRP.

In the 1.8-2 MHz range, the maximum power limit is unspecified, but in the 3.525-3.600 MHz range, CW transmissions are allowed.

Frequency allocations plans are essential for amateur radio operators to avoid interference and ensure smooth communication. These plans divide the frequency bands into specific ranges for different modes of transmission.

In the US, band plans are issued by the National Association for Amateur Radio (ARRL) and are available on their website. For example, the band plan for 2 meters (144-148 MHz) assigns specific ranges for CW, SSB, FM simplex, and repeater inputs and outputs.

Here's a breakdown of the 2-meter band plan:

Note that these plans can vary depending on the region and country. It's essential to familiarize yourself with the specific band plan for your area to ensure smooth communication with other amateur radio operators.

MF and HF Planes are a crucial part of amateur radio operations, allowing for efficient use of the frequency spectrum. The maximum power output for HF is 1500 Watts PEP, unless otherwise noted.

In HF, the frequency range of 472-479 Khz is reserved for CW, Phone, Image, and RTTY/Data modes. Operators are required to use the minimum amount of power necessary to maintain effective communications.

The MF and HF bandplans are not set by the amateur's license, but most users follow voluntary guidelines. In ITU Region 1, the 60-meter band is allocated from 5250 to 5450 Khz, with specific slots for different countries.

Here's a breakdown of the 40-meter band allocation in ITU Region 1:

The 40-meter band is also allocated to Somalia from 7000 to 7300 Khz.

The 144 MHz band is a popular frequency allocation for amateur radio operators. This band is used for a variety of modes, including CW, SSB, and FM.

In the USA, band plans are issued by the National Association for Amateur Radio (ARRL) and are available on their website. The band plan for 2 Meters (144-148 MHz) is a good example of how frequencies are allocated.

Here's a breakdown of the 144 MHz band plan:

The National Simplex Calling Frequency is 146.520, and it's a good place to start for hams who are not sure what frequency to use.

Amateur radio operations involve a range of activities, from casual conversations with friends to participating in emergency communications.

Amateur radio operators can use various modes, including voice, digital, and Morse code, to communicate with other operators.

For voice communications, operators typically use a frequency range of 30 MHz to 30 GHz, as allocated by regulatory bodies.

In digital mode, operators can use frequencies such as 2 meters (144 MHz) and 70 centimeters (432 MHz) for data transmission.

In amateur radio operations, fixed auxiliary stations play a crucial role in providing alternative communication paths.

These stations typically use specific frequencies, such as 145.675, 145.690, and 145.710 MHz.

Fixed auxiliary stations often operate on a range of frequencies, including 145.725, 145.740, and 145.755 MHz.

The 146.460 MHz frequency is also commonly used by fixed auxiliary stations.

You might be wondering why these frequencies are so important - it's because they provide a reliable backup in case of primary communication failures.

Cross-band repeaters are a crucial part of amateur radio operations, allowing us to communicate over longer distances. They operate on specific frequencies that are carefully designated for different purposes.

Let's take a look at some of the frequencies designated for cross-band repeaters. For example, 440.000 MHz is designated for simplex low-level mobile, autopatch, IRLP, and EchoLink, but no digital modes are allowed.

Simplex digital modes are allowed on 441.500 and 441.520 MHz, while 441.860 and 441.880 MHz are test pair inputs for repeaters only. Test pair inputs are used to test the repeater's functionality without affecting regular communication.

Repeater offsets are also important to consider when using cross-band repeaters. For instance, NESMC and T-MARC utilize a 0.5 MHz repeater offset on 6-meters, while ORSI and WAR utilize a 1.7 MHz repeater offset.

Here's a breakdown of the repeater offsets used by different organizations:

Understanding these frequencies and repeater offsets is essential for effective communication and avoiding interference with other amateur radio operations.

Digital Voice is a game-changer for amateur radio operations. It allows for clear and efficient communication over long distances.

IRC, a popular amateur radio organization, uses a 1.0 MHz repeater offset on 6-meters. This specific offset is crucial for maintaining a strong signal and minimizing interference.

ORRC, another well-known organization, utilizes a 1.7 MHz repeater offset on 6-meters. This offset is often preferred for its ability to provide a clear signal in areas with high levels of interference.

WCRH, a notable amateur radio group, used a 0.5 MHz repeater offset on 6-meters in the past. This offset is still used by some groups today for its effectiveness in certain environments.

Amateur radio operations involve the use of specific frequency bands, each with its own unique characteristics and applications.

The electromagnetic frequency spectrum is divided into several bands, including Low Frequency (LF), Medium Frequency (MF), High Frequency (HF), Very High Frequency (VHF), and Ultra High Frequency (UHF).

These bands are utilized differently depending on the purpose and equipment used. For example, HF bands are often used for long-distance communication, while VHF and UHF bands are better suited for local communication.

The LF band is typically used for communication over short distances, while the MF band is used for communication over slightly longer distances.

The HF band is a popular choice for amateur radio operators due to its ability to transmit signals over long distances using ionospheric reflection.

Amateur radio frequency allocations vary by region, and it's essential to know the specific allocations for your area.

In ITU Region 1, which includes Europe, Russia, Africa, and the Middle East, the Radio Society of Great Britain's band plan provides a definitive guide to amateur radio frequencies.

For ITU Region 3, which covers Australia, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand, the South Pacific, and Asia south of Siberia, the IARU frequency allocations are as follows:

Note that not all Member Unions follow this plan, and specific allocations may vary.

ITU Region 1 covers a vast area, including Europe, Russia, Africa, and the Middle East.

This region has specific frequency allocations for various types of radio communication. For example, in ITU Region 1, the frequency range for Low Frequency (LF) is between 30 kHz and 300 kHz.

Radio Society of Great Britain's band plan is particularly relevant for ITU Region 1. Here are the frequency ranges for different types of radio communication in this region:

ITU Region 3 includes Australia, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand, the South Pacific, and Asia south of Siberia.

The IARU frequency allocations for hams in ITU Region 3 are as follows: LF band spans from 135.7 kHz to 137.8 kHz, MF band spans from 472 kHz to 479 kHz, and 160 metres band spans from 1.8 MHz to 2.0 MHz.

The HF band has several allocations, including 80 metres from 3.5 MHz to 3.9 MHz, 60 metres from 5.351 MHz to 5.366 MHz, and 30 metres from 10.1 MHz to 10.15 MHz.

Curious to learn more? Check out: ITU Radio Regulations

The VHF band includes allocations for 6 metres from 50 MHz to 54 MHz and 2 metres from 144 MHz to 148 MHz.

The UHF band has allocations for 70 centimetres from 430 MHz to 450 MHz and 23 centimetres from 1240 MHz to 1300 MHz.

Bands above 1300 MHz require consultation with the amateur satellite community for proposed satellite operating frequencies.

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The Arizona Repeater Owners Frequency Coordination Committee is a group of volunteer amateur radio operators who work to provide coordination services to the amateur radio community in Arizona.

They offer coordination services for VHF and UHF frequencies used for repeater, digital, and point-to-point operations, available for amateur radio frequencies from 29 MHz and up.

The committee has adopted the ARRL VHF band plan with minor changes and additions, and provides a listing to assist in identifying specific sub-band usage.

To find suitable repeater frequencies, it's essential to consult your local ARCA Frequency Coordinator, as FCC regulation 97.205(b) defines frequencies currently available for repeater use.

A 2-meter repeater on 145.50MHz would be out-of-band because the deviation will put the signal outside of the authorized band segment.

Here's a breakdown of the 2-meter band plan in Arizona:

Hawaii has a unique approach to amateur radio repeater coordination.

Hawaii utilizes a 0.5 MHz repeater offset on 6-meters, which is a specific allocation that's worth noting.

Illinois has a unique approach to repeater offsets. The Illinois Repeater Association (IRA) utilizes a 1.7 MHz repeater offset on 6-meters.

Repeater offsets can vary by region, and in Illinois, the IRA's choice of 1.7 MHz on 6-meters is a notable example.

If you're planning to use a 6-meter repeater in Illinois, you'll want to make sure your equipment is set to the correct offset.

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Louisiana is a great place for amateur radio enthusiasts. The state is home to the Louisiana Council of Amateur Radio Clubs (LAARC), which utilizes a 0.5 MHz repeater offset on 6-meters.

If you're planning to get involved with LAARC, you'll want to know the specifics of their repeater setup. LAARC's 6-meter repeater is a great resource for local hams.

Puerto Rico has a unique allocation on the 6-meter band. They utilize a 0.5 MHz repeater offset, which is an important consideration for ham radio operators.

If you're planning to operate in Puerto Rico, keep in mind that this offset is essential for effective communication.

Tasma deviates significantly from the ARRL band plan, highlighting the importance of checking regional allocations for specific designations.

Colorado does not mention a 6-meter band plan.

Utah has a unique setup for VHF repeaters. UVHFS utilizes a 0.5 MHz repeater offset on 6-meters from 51.620 - 51.980.

If you're planning to operate in Utah, it's essential to know the specific frequencies and offsets used by the UVHFS. Their repeaters operate with a 1.0 MHz offset from 52.000 to 52.480.

To help you navigate the Utah VHF scene, here are the key frequencies to keep in mind: