10 meters band
“The solar-peak superstar”
10 meters is a huge, lively band that turns electric near the solar maximum — worldwide DX with small antennas and low power, plus FM repeaters and sporadic-E surprises.
Propagation & character
At high solar activity it opens daily for long-haul DX; at low activity it leans on sporadic-E (mostly summer) and local contacts. It is famous for big signals from small stations when it is hot.
What 10 meters is used for
CW, SSB, FT8, AM, and FM — including repeaters up near 29.6 MHz. A favorite for Technicians and newcomers to HF.
Operating tips
- Technicians get voice and data privileges here — it is your gateway to HF DX.
- Summer sporadic-E can open the band even during a solar minimum.
- A 10 m dipole is only about 16 ft, and simple verticals work very well.
Antennas for 10 meters
A half-wave dipole for 10 meters is about 16.2 ft (4.9 m) end to end. Work out an exact starting length with the antenna calculator, then trim for lowest SWR.
10 meters band FAQ
What frequencies is the 10 meters band?
The 10 meters band covers 28.000–29.700 MHz — part of the high frequency (HF) spectrum. Common modes are CW, SSB, FT8, FM, AM.
What is the 10 meters band used for?
CW, SSB, FT8, AM, and FM — including repeaters up near 29.6 MHz. A favorite for Technicians and newcomers to HF.
What license do you need to use 10 meters?
All classes, including Technician (voice and data segments).
How long is a dipole for 10 meters?
A half-wave dipole for 10 meters is about 16.2 ft (4.9 m) end to end, with each leg half that. Use the HamDaily antenna calculator for an exact starting length, then trim to resonance.