23 centimeters band
23 centimeters is the gateway to the amateur microwave bands — repeaters, satellites, EME, and serious weak-signal experimentation at 1.2 GHz.
Propagation & character
Line-of-sight with low loss for its size; it rewards high-gain dishes and loops and supports tropo and EME (moonbounce).
What 23 centimeters is used for
FM and digital repeaters, satellites, amateur TV, and SSB/CW weak-signal and EME near 1296 MHz.
Operating tips
- It is a common first microwave band — transverters and small dishes get you started.
- 1296 MHz is a popular EME (moonbounce) frequency.
- Coordinate carefully, as parts of the band are shared with radiolocation.
Antennas for 23 centimeters
A half-wave dipole for 23 centimeters is about 0.4 ft (0.1 m) end to end. Work out an exact starting length with the antenna calculator, then trim for lowest SWR.
23 centimeters band FAQ
What frequencies is the 23 centimeters band?
The 23 centimeters band covers 1240–1300 MHz — part of the ultra high frequency (UHF) spectrum. Common modes are FM, digital, SSB/CW, satellite, EME.
What is the 23 centimeters band used for?
FM and digital repeaters, satellites, amateur TV, and SSB/CW weak-signal and EME near 1296 MHz.
What license do you need to use 23 centimeters?
All classes, including Technician.
How long is a dipole for 23 centimeters?
A half-wave dipole for 23 centimeters is about 0.4 ft (0.1 m) end to end, with each leg half that. Use the HamDaily antenna calculator for an exact starting length, then trim to resonance.