What Are Very High Frequency (VHF) Bands?
Very High Frequency (VHF) bands cover the range from 30 to 300 MHz and are widely used in amateur radio for short- and medium-distance communication. They are particularly suitable for direct line-of-sight contacts, working through repeaters, and various specialized disciplines such as contests, experiments, and satellite communications.
The VHF spectrum is preferred by amateur radio operators because of its good audio quality, lower noise levels compared to HF, and the ability to operate with compact antennas and portable equipment.
History and Importance
VHF communications began to develop actively after World War II, when equipment became more accessible and compact. Amateur radio operators quickly discovered the advantages of VHF for local and regional contacts, as well as for experiments with different types of antennas and modulations.
In Bulgaria, VHF bands are used for daily QSOs, contests, expeditions, and experiments with tropospheric propagation, sporadic E-layer propagation, and satellite communications.
Disciplines and Activities
Various amateur radio activities take place on VHF bands:
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Local contacts – everyday conversations between amateurs within a city or region.
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Repeater operation – using automatic relay stations to extend communication range.
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Contests – VHF competitions where the goal is to establish as many contacts as possible over the longest distances.
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VHF DX – long-distance contacts during special propagation conditions (tropo, sporadic E, meteor scatter).
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Satellite communications – working with low-orbit and geostationary amateur satellites.
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Digital mode experiments – DMR, D-STAR, System Fusion, etc.
Main VHF Bands and Their Applications
6 meters (50 – 52 MHz)
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Known as the “Magic Band” – combines characteristics of both HF and VHF.
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During sporadic E, it allows contacts over thousands of kilometers.
4 meters (70 – 70.5 MHz)
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Less commonly used, but with interesting possibilities for long-distance contacts via E-layer propagation.
2 meters (144 – 146 MHz)
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The most popular VHF band in amateur radio.
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Used for local QSOs, repeater operation, satellite contacts, and VHF DX.
Propagation Modes
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Line-of-Sight – the primary propagation mode.
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Tropospheric propagation – enables contacts over 500+ km under favorable conditions.
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Sporadic E – seasonal phenomenon allowing 1000–2000 km contacts.
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Meteor scatter – brief long-distance contacts using meteor trails.
Rules and Ethics
Operation on VHF bands is carried out according to international band plans and national regulations. Operators should:
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Use the proper frequency segments for voice, CW, digital modes, and satellite work;
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Follow repeater etiquette and avoid occupying frequencies unnecessarily;
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Transmit clearly and concisely, identifying with their callsign;
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Avoid interfering with other ongoing communications.
Age Groups and Participation
VHF contests are open to all licensed amateur radio operators. Some competitions include separate youth categories to encourage new operators to get involved in VHF activity.
