The bands you'll use first
| Band | Frequencies | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| 2 meters | 144–148 MHz | Repeaters, local talk, most handhelds |
| 70 centimeters | 420–450 MHz | Repeaters, short range in town |
| 6 meters | 50–54 MHz | Occasional long-distance 'openings' |
| 10 meters (voice part) | 28.3–28.5 MHz | Long distance when the sun is active |
Technicians have full privileges above 50 MHz and limited privileges on a few lower bands.
Technician or General?
Technician
- Local and regional talk
- Repeaters across a county or two
- A small handheld or truck radio
General
- Most of the HF bands
- Talk across the country and the world
- Works without any repeater or tower
Handy numbers
2 mthe most popular band
146.522-meter calling frequency
446.070 cm calling frequency
35questions on the General test too
Calling frequencies are where you can find someone without a repeater.
Sources: FCC Part 97.301; ARRL band plan
Remember
Two meters and 70 centimeters cover the family; the General license covers the world.
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Answer key
- Which band do most handheld ham radios use for local repeaters?2 meters2 meters, 144 to 148 MHz, is the most popular local band.
- What is the national 2-meter simplex calling frequency?146.52 MHz146.52 MHz is where hams call each other without a repeater.
- What does the General license mainly add?Most of the HF long-distance bandsGeneral opens most HF privileges for long-distance contacts.
- Technicians have full privileges on which frequencies?All amateur frequencies above 50 MHzTechnicians can use all amateur bands above 50 MHz.
- Which band can carry signals long distances when the sun is active?10 meters10 meters opens for long-distance contacts during high solar activity.