Handheld VHF Radio

[jerneedog]

Hello all,

In regards to Handheld VHF Radio, are these radios used by Hams?
Are there any VHF Radios one could use without a license?

 

[BJ_NORTON]

In regards to Handheld VHF Radio, are these radios used by Hams?

well, yes Hams do use hand held VHF radios, but so do many police agencies, fire departments, businesses, and governments, as well as the army. Hams only use 4 mghz of a very large band segment.

Are there any VHF Radios one could use without a license?

As a matter of fact yes. MURS the Multi-Use Radio Service is a rather new license free radio service. There is no test to take, or license to buy. It is a bit like the FRS radios that are so popular. MURS radios are allowed to use up to 2 watts, and don't have the antenna restrictions the FRS has. The biggest problem with MURS seems to be finding the equipment. RAdio shack used to sell some business band radios that could be used for MURS, but they were discontinued around the time MURS came into existance. Try this link it might provide some more information than I can. http://www.provide.net/~prsg/murs_faq.htm

 

[KC2LVC]

VHF just stands for Very high frequency, referring here to radio frequencies in the range of 30 to 300 megahertz. So, any radio traffic you hear in this range is VHF. As for ranges you can use without a license, I'd look into MURS also.

 

[INDY72]

Anyone can own and operate a VHF Hi or Lo HT, its the frequencies that can be programmed that can be an issue. Be sure that if you do get an HT that you iether have it in the MURS, or if you get it in the 144-148 MHz HAM band you are a liscensed HAM,... If you get one that is programmed for a freq that is used for Public Safety in your area, make sure you are officially liscensed for it as a Public Safety Official, such as Volunteer FF/FR, or LEO.