Very High Frequency (VHF) and Ultra High Frequency (UHF) bands are essential components of amateur radio, offering unique opportunities and advantages for enthusiasts in the UK. Here’s an in-depth look at VHF and UHF amateur radio, their characteristics, applications, and benefits which can be used with Foundation Licence-suitable VHF/UHF radios.
VHF Amateur Radio
VHF (30 MHz to 300 MHz) is commonly used for local and regional communication. In the UK, popular VHF amateur radio bands include:
2 Meters (144-146 MHz):
- This band is widely used for local communication via repeaters, simplex (direct station-to-station), and digital modes.
- Repeaters: Devices that receive a signal and retransmit it at a higher power, extending the communication range. They are vital for mobile and handheld radios.
- Simplex Communication: Direct communication between two stations without intermediary repeaters.
4 Meters (70.0-70.5 MHz):
- Less crowded than the 2-meter band, it offers a unique operating experience and is popular among UK amateurs for local communication.
Propagation Characteristics:
- VHF signals typically travel via line-of-sight, limiting their range to the radio horizon (30-50 miles), but they can reach further under certain conditions like tropospheric ducting.
- VHF signals penetrate buildings better than HF signals, making them suitable for urban environments.
UHF Amateur Radio
UHF (300 MHz to 3 GHz) provides even higher frequencies and is commonly used for shorter-range communication. Key UHF bands in the UK include:
70 Centimeters (430-440 MHz):
- Highly popular for local communication, especially in urban areas where building penetration is important.
- Repeaters: Similar to VHF, UHF repeaters extend the range of handheld and mobile radios.
- Digital Modes: Modes like D-STAR, System Fusion, and DMR are common on UHF, providing high-quality voice communication and additional features like GPS and text messaging.
23 Centimeters (1240-1300 MHz):
- Used by more advanced operators for experiments, including digital communications, data transmission, and ATV (Amateur Television).
Propagation Characteristics:
- UHF signals also travel primarily via line-of-sight but offer better penetration through buildings and obstacles than VHF, making them ideal for densely populated areas.
- UHF is less affected by environmental noise, providing clearer communication in urban environments.
Applications of VHF and UHF Amateur Radio
Local Communication:
- Ideal for community events, public service activities, and daily rag-chewing (informal chatting) among local hams.
Emergency Communication:
- VHF and UHF bands are crucial for emergency communication, offering reliable, portable communication solutions during disasters or public events.
Repeater Networks:
- Extensive repeater networks across the UK allow for wide-area coverage, making it possible for handheld radios to communicate over significant distances.
Digital Modes:
- Digital voice modes and data transmission are increasingly popular, enabling clear voice communication and additional functionalities like GPS tracking and text messaging.
Contests and Awards:
- VHF/UHF contests encourage operators to make as many contacts as possible within a specific period, often focusing on distance and signal clarity.
- Awards and certificates are available for various achievements, promoting active use of these bands.
Advantages of VHF and UHF
Accessibility:
- Equipment for VHF and UHF is widely available, relatively affordable, and easy to use, making these bands accessible to beginners and experienced operators alike.
Quality of Communication:
- These bands offer excellent audio quality and reliability, particularly in local and regional communication.
Compact Equipment:
- Handheld transceivers (HTs) and mobile rigs are compact, portable, and suitable for mobile and pedestrian operation.
Interference Management:
- UHF, in particular, experiences less atmospheric and man-made noise, providing clearer signals in urban environments.
VHF and UHF amateur radio in the UK provide a versatile and engaging aspect of the hobby, suitable for both newcomers and seasoned operators. With their focus on local and regional communication, ease of use, and advanced digital capabilities, these bands offer numerous opportunities for experimentation, public service, and personal enjoyment. Whether communicating through repeaters, participating in contests, or exploring digital modes, VHF and UHF bands continue to be a cornerstone of the amateur radio experience in the UK.