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VHF
The 2-meter amateur radio band is a portion of the VHF radio spectrum, comprising frequencies stretching from 144.000 MHz to 148.000 MHz in the U.S.A. This band can be used by amateur radio operators of all license classes. The ARRL Band Plan provides guidance on how the 2-meter band should be shared by the various activities and modes. In general, the first 100 KHz of the 2-meter band is CW only and the remainder of the band is used for all modes.
The 2-meter national calling frequency is 146.52 MHz FM simplex.
The Florida Repeater Council publishes a list of 2-meter repeaters in the state.
An antenna for every occasion.
Much of 2-meter FM operation uses a radio repeater, a radio receiver and transmitter that instantly retransmits a received signal on a separate frequency. Repeaters are normally located in high locations such as a tall building or a hill top overlooking expanses of territory. On VHF frequencies such as 2-meters, antenna height greatly influences how far one can talk. Typical reliable repeater range is about 25 miles (40 km). Some repeaters in unusually high locations, such as skyscrapers or mountain tops, can be usable as far out as 75 miles (120 km). Reliable range is very dependent on the height of the repeater antenna and also on the height and surroundings of the handheld or mobile unit attempting to access to the repeater. Line of sight would be the ultimate in reliability. The typical hand held two meter FM operator has about 5 watts of transmit power. Stations in a car or home run higher power, 25 to 50 watts, and may use a simple vertical antenna mounted on a rooftop.
UHF
Dual band 2m/440 MHz hand-helds are always useful.
The 70-centimeter, 420 MHz to 450 MHz, amateur radio band is a portion of the UHF radio spectrum. This band is used by amateurs engaged in emergency communications where portable and mobile radios are frequently used. Many such radios have dual-band capabilities, operating on both the 70-centimeter and 2-meter bands.
The 70-centimeter national calling frequency is 446.00 MHz FM simplex.
The ARRL Band Plan provides guidance on how the 70-centemeter band should be shared by the various activities and modes.
The Florida Repeater Council publishes a list of 70-centemeter repeaters in the state.