70 centimeters band
70 centimeters is the most popular UHF band — repeaters everywhere, excellent building penetration, plus satellites, amateur TV, and weak-signal work.
Propagation & character
Line-of-sight, with good penetration into buildings and urban areas; tropospheric ducting can extend it well beyond the horizon.
What 70 centimeters is used for
FM and digital-voice repeaters, simplex (446.000 MHz calling), satellites, amateur television, and SSB/CW weak-signal near 432 MHz.
Operating tips
- It pairs with 2 meters on nearly every dual-band HT and mobile rig.
- The shorter wavelength means small, efficient antennas and easy satellite work.
- Fast-scan amateur television (ATV) lives on this band too.
Antennas for 70 centimeters
A half-wave dipole for 70 centimeters is about 1.1 ft (0.3 m) end to end. Work out an exact starting length with the antenna calculator, then trim for lowest SWR.
70 centimeters band FAQ
What frequencies is the 70 centimeters band?
The 70 centimeters band covers 420–450 MHz — part of the ultra high frequency (UHF) spectrum. Common modes are FM, digital voice, SSB/CW, satellite, ATV.
What is the 70 centimeters band used for?
FM and digital-voice repeaters, simplex (446.000 MHz calling), satellites, amateur television, and SSB/CW weak-signal near 432 MHz.
What license do you need to use 70 centimeters?
All classes, including Technician.
How long is a dipole for 70 centimeters?
A half-wave dipole for 70 centimeters is about 1.1 ft (0.3 m) end to end, with each leg half that. Use the HamDaily antenna calculator for an exact starting length, then trim to resonance.