Frequency bands allowed with a General Class ham radio license?

Frequency Allocation

The General Class amateur radio license allows operation on a variety of frequency bands, including 40 meters (7 MHz), 30 meters (10 MHz), 20 meters (14 MHz), 17 meters (18 MHz), 15 meters (21 MHz), and 10 meters (28 MHz). Each of these bands has its own specific allocation of frequencies, with some bands shared with amateur operators of higher classes, such as the Extra Class, and some bands shared with other services, such as the General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) or the Fixed Microwave Services.

Power and Mode Limitations

For the General Class license, the power output is limited to 1,500 watts for most frequency bands, but there are some exceptions. For example, on the 10-meter band, the maximum power output is 1,500 watts, but on the 30-meter and 17-meter bands, the maximum power output is 400 watts. In addition to power limitations, the General Class license also has restrictions on modes of operation, with some modes, such as satellite operation, requiring an additional license or permission from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

Practical Considerations

When operating on the frequency bands allowed with a General Class license, it’s essential to be aware of the specific regulations and restrictions that apply to each band. For example, the 30-meter band has a relatively short range and is best suited for local communication, while the 10-meter band has a much longer range and is often used for global communication. By understanding the rules and regulations that apply to each frequency band, amateur radio operators can make the most of their General Class license and enjoy the many benefits of amateur radio communication.