How to Read a Ham Radio Frequency Chart

Band Names and Wavelengths

Amateur radio bands are named by their approximate wavelength. The formula: wavelength (meters) = 300 ÷ frequency (MHz). The 2-meter band operates at 144–148 MHz because 300 ÷ 146 ≈ 2.05 meters. The 40-meter band is at 7.0–7.3 MHz because 300 ÷ 7.15 ≈ 42 meters. This naming convention is consistent across all amateur bands.

Technician Privileges on the Chart

On standard frequency allocation charts, Technician privileges are usually shown in the lightest color or marked "T" (Technician), while General and Extra add progressively more. As a Technician, you have full access to all amateur frequencies above 30 MHz, which includes the complete 2-meter and 70cm bands — the most active local bands. Your HF access is limited to specific sub-bands marked on the chart.

Mode-Restricted Sub-Bands

Within each band, frequency segments are mode-restricted. The lowest frequencies in each VHF/UHF band are CW only. SSB occupies specific sub-bands (144.100–144.300 MHz on 2 meters). FM appears at the higher end and around standard calling frequencies (146.520 MHz, 146.400–148.000 MHz). Knowing these restrictions matters for the exam — the Technician question pool tests on mode-restricted sub-bands on 6, 2, and 1.25 meters.

Where to Get the Current Chart

The ARRL publishes a free downloadable band plan chart at arrl.org/graphical-frequency-allocations. The US frequency allocation chart (from the NTIA, not the ARRL) shows all radio services from VLF through EHF and is available free at ntia.doc.gov. The ARRL amateur-specific chart is more useful for day-to-day reference.

• What is the "calling frequency" on each band?
  A calling frequency is a standard frequency where stations announce themselves looking for contacts, then move to another frequency for the actual conversation. 146.520 MHz is the national 2-meter FM calling frequency. 144.200 MHz is the national 2-meter SSB calling frequency. These are conventions — not FCC-mandated — but universally observed.