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# Call Signs and Country Prefixes
This reference summarizes amateur radio call-sign patterns, suffixes,
country prefixes, and full call signs that appear in the BNetzA 2024 exam
question catalog in `data/2024-03-20-3-auflage/fragenkatalog3b.json`.
Reference counts are the number of exam question records where the item
appears in a call-sign or country-prefix context. Ambiguous short items
such as `K`, `N`, `W`, `/F`, and class letters are counted only when they
are used as call-sign prefixes, call-sign suffixes, or operating suffixes,
not as ordinary words, units, or unrelated answer text.
## German Call-Sign Patterns
| Code or pattern | What it identifies | What the exam tests | Explanation, when actually used | Exam references | Question IDs |
|---|---|---|---|---:|---|
| `DA0...` | German club station example. | `DA0ABC` is a club station. | Used as a shared station call sign assigned to a club or group. | 1 | `BD101` |
| `DA5...` | German special experimental-study example. | `DA5XX` marks operation for special experimental studies under AFuV. | Used for specific authorized experimental amateur radio work. | 1 | `BD102` |
| `DL0...` | German class A club station example. | `DL0XK` is a class A club-station call sign. | Used by a club station rather than a person-bound station. | 1 | `BD103` |
| `DL1` to `DL9` | German person-bound class A call signs with two- or three-letter suffix. | `DL1` to `DL9` plus suffix belongs to class A. | Used as a German full-privilege personal amateur radio call-sign pattern. | 1 | `BD104` |
| `DN9...` | German person-bound class N call sign pattern. | `DN9` belongs to class N. | Used for German class N personal call signs. | 1 | `BD105` |
| `DO1` to `DO9` | German person-bound class E call signs with two- or three-letter suffix. | `DO1` to `DO9` plus suffix belongs to class E. | Used as a German novice/intermediate personal call-sign pattern. | 1 | `BD106` |
| `DP0...` | German exterritorial class A station examples. | `DP0GVN` and `DP0POL` are exterritorial class A amateur stations. | Used for German amateur stations operated at exterritorial locations. | 2 | `BD107`, `BD108` |
| German personal format | Two-letter prefix, one digit, two- or three-letter suffix. | Person-bound German call signs are built from prefix, digit, and suffix. | Used to recognize the structure of ordinary German amateur call signs. | 1 | `VD203` |
| `DA` to `DZ` | German country-prefix range with exceptions in distractors. | Correct mapping: Germany `DA-DR`, South Korea `DS-DT`, Philippines `DU-DZ`. | Used to identify the country allocation at the start of a call sign. | 1 | `BD302` |
| `MO`, `MOE`, `MOI`, `MOS`, `MOH`, `MO5` | Direction-finding (foxhunt/ARDF) transmitter identifiers, not call signs. | Low-power beacons used for radio direction finding send `MO`, `MOE`, `MOI`, `MOS`, `MOH` or `MO5`. | Used in telegraphy by ARDF/foxhunt transmitters to identify themselves while being located. | 1 | `BD109` |
## Operating Suffixes and Portable Prefixing
| Code or pattern | What it identifies | What the exam tests | Explanation, when actually used | Exam references | Question IDs |
|---|---|---|---|---:|---|
| `HB9/DL9MJ` | German class A station operating temporarily in Switzerland under CEPT. | For CEPT operation abroad, use the visited country's prefix before the home call sign. | Used when a German class A operator operates temporarily in Switzerland. | 1 | `BD214` |
| `HB3/DO7PR` | German CEPT-Novice station operating temporarily in Switzerland. | For Swiss novice CEPT operation, `HB3/` is prefixed before the German `DO` call. | Used when a German novice operator operates temporarily in Switzerland under the novice arrangement. | 1 | `BD213` |
| `DL/G3MM` | Foreign station temporarily operating in Germany under CEPT. | A UK station may temporarily operate in Germany by prefixing `DL/`. | Used when a foreign operator identifies temporary operation from Germany. | 1 | `BD212` |
| `DL/` or `DO/` | German prefix added before a foreign home call sign, depending on class. | A CEPT visitor in Germany prefixes the home call with `DL/` or `DO/`. | Used by foreign CEPT operators while temporarily operating from Germany. | 1 | `VB110` |
| `/T` or `/Trainee` | Training operation suffix. | Trainees use the trainer or club call with `/T` or `/Trainee`, depending on the case. | Used to identify supervised training operation. | 3 | `BD209`, `BD210`, `BD211` |
| `/R` or `/Remote` | Remote-operation suffix. | `/R` or `/Remote` can mark remote operation. | Used as optional information that the station is being operated remotely. | 1 | `BD208` |
| `/p` | Portable or temporarily fixed station. | `/p` may be used in Germany, but is not mandatory for portable or temporarily fixed operation. | Used to tell others the station is portable or temporarily away from the registered fixed site. | 3 | `BA107`, `BD206`, `BD207` |
| `/m` | Mobile station or station on inland waterways. | `/m` can mean mobile in a land vehicle or aboard a vessel on inland waters. | Used to identify mobile operation. | 2 | `BD203`, `BD204` |
| `/mm` | Maritime mobile on a vessel at sea. | `DC4LW/mm` means the station is aboard a watercraft at sea. | Used for maritime mobile amateur operation outside inland-waterway cases. | 1 | `BD205` |
| `/am` | Aeronautical mobile. | `VE8ZZ/am` is a Canadian amateur station operated aboard an aircraft. | Used when an amateur station is operated from an aircraft. | 2 | `BD201`, `BD202` |
## Country Prefixes
| Code or prefix | Country or area | What the exam tests | Explanation, when actually used | Exam references | Question IDs |
|---|---|---|---|---:|---|
| `4X` | Israel. | `4X`, `F`, `OZ` map to Israel, France, Denmark. | Used as the country prefix at the start of Israeli call signs. | 2 | `BD307`, `BD311` |
| `AL` | United States prefix range item. | Appears as a distractor in the USA, New Zealand, Argentina prefix question. | Used as part of the US `AA-AL` prefix allocation, though not the main exam answer. | 1 | `BD312` |
| `BY` | China. | China, Canada, Australia are `BY`, `VE`, `VK`. | Used as a Chinese amateur radio prefix. | 4 | `BD313`, `BD316`, `BD317`, `BD318` |
| `CE` | Chile. | South American examples include `PY`, `CE`, `LU`; also appears as a distractor. | Used as a Chilean amateur radio prefix. | 2 | `BD312`, `BD317` |
| `CT` | Portugal. | Appears as a distractor among countries bordering Germany. | Used as a Portuguese amateur radio prefix. | 1 | `BD314` |
| `DS-DT` | South Korea. | In the `DA-DZ` allocation question, `DS-DT` belongs to South Korea. | Used to identify South Korean call signs in that prefix range. | 3 | `BD302`, `BD316`, `BD318` |
| `DU-DZ` | Philippines. | In the `DA-DZ` allocation question, `DU-DZ` belongs to the Philippines. | Used to identify Philippine call signs in that prefix range. | 1 | `BD302` |
| `EA` | Spain. | Spain appears as `EA`; Switzerland, Spain, Belgium are `HB9`, `EA`, `ON`; `EA6VQ` is a Spanish station calling CQ. | Used as a Spanish amateur radio prefix. | 5 | `BD308`, `BD310`, `BD311`, `BD314`, `BE104` |
| `EI` | Ireland. | `EA`, `EI`, `EK`, `EM`, `ES` map to Spain, Ireland, Armenia, Ukraine, Estonia. | Used as an Irish amateur radio prefix. | 2 | `BD308`, `BD311` |
| `EK` | Armenia. | `EK` maps to Armenia in the five-prefix sequence. | Used as an Armenian amateur radio prefix. | 1 | `BD308` |
| `EM` | Ukraine. | `EM` maps to Ukraine in the correct sequence and appears as a distractor elsewhere. | Used as a Ukrainian amateur radio prefix. | 2 | `BD308`, `BD311` |
| `ES` | Estonia. | `ES` maps to Estonia in the five-prefix sequence. | Used as an Estonian amateur radio prefix. | 1 | `BD308` |
| `EU` | Belarus. | Appears as a distractor in the Spain, Luxembourg, Poland question. | Used as a Belarusian amateur radio prefix. | 1 | `BD311` |
| `F` | France. | France appears in border-country and prefix-mapping questions. | Used as a French amateur radio prefix. | 3 | `BD305`, `BD307`, `BD314` |
| `GM` | Scotland. | Appears as a distractor among countries bordering Germany. | Used for Scotland within the UK call-sign system. | 1 | `BD314` |
| `HB0` | Liechtenstein. | Appears as a distractor among countries bordering Germany. | Used as a Liechtenstein amateur radio prefix. | 1 | `BD314` |
| `HB3` | Switzerland novice CEPT prefix. | German novice CEPT operation in Switzerland uses `HB3/DO7PR`. | Used before a German novice home call when operating temporarily in Switzerland under the relevant arrangement. | 2 | `BD213`, `BD214` |
| `HB9` | Switzerland. | Switzerland appears as `HB9`; used in CEPT and DX examples. | Used as a Swiss amateur radio prefix. | 5 | `BD213`, `BD214`, `BD310`, `BD314`, `BE114` |
| `I` | Italy. | Appears as a distractor among countries bordering Germany. | Used as an Italian amateur radio prefix. | 1 | `BD314` |
| `JA` | Japan. | Asian-prefix distractors and China, Canada, Australia choices include `JA`. | Used as a Japanese amateur radio prefix. | 4 | `BD313`, `BD316`, `BD317`, `BD318` |
| `K` | United States. | USA call signs can start with `K`; also appears in country-prefix distractors. | Used as a US amateur radio prefix. | 4 | `BD312`, `BD315`, `BD316`, `BD318` |
| `LA` | Norway. | Appears as a distractor in Europe-prefix questions. | Used as a Norwegian amateur radio prefix. | 2 | `BD311`, `BD314` |
| `LU` | Argentina. | USA, New Zealand, Argentina are `W`, `ZL`, `LU`; also a South America distractor. | Used as an Argentine amateur radio prefix. | 4 | `BD311`, `BD312`, `BD317`, `BD318` |
| `LX` | Luxembourg. | Spain, Luxembourg, Poland are `EA`, `LX`, `SP`. | Used as a Luxembourg amateur radio prefix. | 2 | `BD311`, `BD314` |
| `LZ` | Bulgaria. | Appears as a distractor in European-prefix questions. | Used as a Bulgarian amateur radio prefix. | 2 | `BD311`, `BD314` |
| `N` | United States. | USA call signs can start with `N`; also appears in distractors. | Used as a US amateur radio prefix. | 4 | `BD312`, `BD313`, `BD315`, `BD316` |
| `OE` | Austria. | Austria, Netherlands, Sweden are `OE`, `PA`, `SM`; Austria, Belgium, Czechia are `OE`, `ON`, `OK`. | Used as an Austrian amateur radio prefix. | 3 | `BD303`, `BD304`, `BD314` |
| `OK` | Czechia. | `OE`, `ON`, `OK` map to Austria, Belgium, Czechia. | Used as a Czech amateur radio prefix. | 2 | `BD303`, `BD314` |
| `ON` | Belgium. | Switzerland, Spain, Belgium are `HB9`, `EA`, `ON`; `OE`, `ON`, `OK` includes Belgium. | Used as a Belgian amateur radio prefix. | 3 | `BD303`, `BD310`, `BD314` |
| `OZ` | Denmark. | `4X`, `F`, `OZ` map to Israel, France, Denmark; also border-country question. | Used as a Danish amateur radio prefix. | 2 | `BD307`, `BD314` |
| `PA` | Netherlands. | France, Netherlands, Poland are `F`, `PA`, `SP`; Austria, Netherlands, Sweden are `OE`, `PA`, `SM`. | Used as a Dutch amateur radio prefix. | 2 | `BD304`, `BD305` |
| `PY` | Brazil. | `VE`, `VK`, `PY` map to Canada, Australia, Brazil; `PY` also appears in long-path context. | Used as a Brazilian amateur radio prefix. | 5 | `AH216`, `BD309`, `BD312`, `BD317`, `BD318` |
| `SM` | Sweden. | Sweden, Poland, South Africa are `SM`, `SP`, `ZS`; `OE`, `PA`, `SM` includes Sweden. | Used as a Swedish amateur radio prefix. | 4 | `BD304`, `BD306`, `BD311`, `BD314` |
| `SP` | Poland. | Poland appears in border-country and mapping questions. | Used as a Polish amateur radio prefix. | 5 | `BD305`, `BD306`, `BD310`, `BD311`, `BD314` |
| `S0` | Western Sahara. | Appears as a distractor in the Spain, Luxembourg, Poland question. | Used as a Western Sahara prefix in prefix lists. | 1 | `BD311` |
| `SZ` | Greece prefix-series item. | Appears as a distractor in the Switzerland, Spain, Belgium question. | Used within Greek amateur radio prefix series. | 1 | `BD310` |
| `UA` | Russia. | Appears in `UA3RUS`, a distractor in the USA-only call-sign question. | Used as a Russian amateur radio prefix. | 1 | `BD315` |
| `US` | Ukraine. | Appears in `US2ABC`, a distractor in the USA-only call-sign question. | Used as a Ukrainian amateur radio prefix series. | 1 | `BD315` |
| `VE` | Canada. | Canada appears as `VE`; `VE8ZZ/am` is Canadian aeronautical mobile. | Used as a Canadian amateur radio prefix. | 7 | `BD202`, `BD309`, `BD312`, `BD313`, `BD315`, `BD316`, `BD317` |
| `VK` | Australia. | Australia appears as `VK`; `CQ VK/ZL` asks for Australia or New Zealand. | Used as an Australian amateur radio prefix. | 4 | `BD309`, `BD313`, `BE110`, `EH217` |
| `VU` | India. | `BY`, `JA`, `VU` are Asian prefixes in the correct answer. | Used as an Indian amateur radio prefix. | 1 | `BD318` |
| `W` | United States. | USA, New Zealand, Argentina are `W`, `ZL`, `LU`; `W`, `VE`, `XE` share one continent; USA calls also include `W...`. | Used as a US amateur radio prefix. | 3 | `BD312`, `BD315`, `BD316` |
| `XE` | Mexico. | North American-prefix distractor with `W`, `VE`, and `N`. | Used as a Mexican amateur radio prefix. | 1 | `BD316` |
| `ZL` | New Zealand. | USA, New Zealand, Argentina are `W`, `ZL`, `LU`; `CQ VK/ZL` asks for Australia or New Zealand. | Used as a New Zealand amateur radio prefix. | 2 | `BD312`, `BE110` |
| `ZS` | South Africa. | Sweden, Poland, South Africa are `SM`, `SP`, `ZS`; also appears as a distractor. | Used as a South African amateur radio prefix. | 2 | `BD306`, `BD312` |
## Full Call Signs Mentioned
| Call sign | What it identifies | What the exam tests | Explanation, when actually used | Exam references | Question IDs |
|---|---|---|---|---:|---|
| `DD4UQ` | German call-sign example. | Phonetic spelling and Fieldday contest example. | Used as a normal station call sign; with `/P` it is portable. | 2 | `BA101`, `BE116` |
| `DK1KC` | German phonetic spelling example. | Spell as Delta Kilo 1 Kilo Charlie. | Used as a station call sign that must be identified clearly on air. | 1 | `BA102` |
| `DK5WP` | German phonetic spelling example. | Spell as Delta Kilo 5 Whiskey Papa. | Used as a station call sign that must be identified clearly on air. | 1 | `BA103` |
| `DL1FLO` | German phonetic spelling example. | Spell as Delta Lima 1 Foxtrot Lima Oscar. | Used as a station call sign that must be identified clearly on air. | 1 | `BA104` |
| `DL4YBZ` | German phonetic spelling example. | Spell as Delta Lima 4 Yankee Bravo Zulu. | Used as a station call sign that must be identified clearly on air. | 1 | `BA105` |
| `DM4EAX` | German phonetic spelling example. | Spell as Delta Mike 4 Echo Alfa X-ray. | Used as a station call sign that must be identified clearly on air. | 1 | `BA106` |
| `DN9RO/p` | German portable phonetic spelling example. | Spell the call and `/p` as portable. | Used when a class N station is portable or temporarily fixed. | 1 | `BA107` |
| `DN9STV` | German class N phonetic spelling example. | Spell as Delta November 9 Sierra Tango Victor. | Used as a class N station call sign. | 1 | `BA108` |
| `DO9XJZ` | German class E phonetic spelling example. | Spell as Delta Oscar 9 X-ray Juliett Zulu. | Used as a class E station call sign. | 1 | `BA109` |
| `IG9/DL4HR` | German station operating with `IG9/` prefix in the spelling example. | Spell the slash as stroke. | Used when a home call is prefixed for operation from another country or area. | 1 | `BA110` |
| `DA0ABC` | German club station example. | Recognize it as a club station. | Used as a shared club-station call sign. | 1 | `BD101` |
| `DA5XX` | German special experimental-study example. | Recognize special experimental-study operation. | Used for authorized experimental amateur radio studies. | 1 | `BD102` |
| `DL0XK` | German class A club station example. | Recognize a class A club station. | Used by a club station in normal or contest operation. | 1 | `BD103` |
| `DP0GVN` | German exterritorial class A station example. | Recognize exterritorial class A operation. | Used for German amateur operation from an exterritorial site. | 1 | `BD107` |
| `DP0POL` | German exterritorial class A station example. | Recognize exterritorial class A operation. | Used for German amateur operation from an exterritorial site. | 1 | `BD108` |
| `DG2RON/T` | German training-operation example. | Trainee uses `DG2RON/T` for Morse or digital training. | Used when a trainee operates under supervision. | 1 | `BD211` |
| `DL0MOL/T` | Club-station training-operation example. | Trainee may use `DL0MOL/T` or `DL0MOL/Trainee`. | Used for supervised training at a club station. | 1 | `BD210` |
| `DL1PZ/Trainee` | Speech training-operation example. | Trainee may use `DL1PZ/Trainee`. | Used for supervised speech-radio training. | 1 | `BD209` |
| `DC4LW/mm` | German maritime-mobile station example. | Recognize operation aboard a vessel at sea. | Used when operating from a vessel at sea. | 1 | `BD205` |
| `VE8ZZ/am` | Canadian aeronautical-mobile station example. | Recognize Canadian aircraft operation. | Used when operating an amateur station from an aircraft. | 1 | `BD202` |
| `DL/G3MM` | UK station temporarily operating in Germany. | CEPT visitor prefixes home call with German prefix. | Used by a foreign operator temporarily in Germany. | 1 | `BD212` |
| `HB9/DL9MJ` | German class A station temporarily in Switzerland. | Correct CEPT call-sign form in Switzerland. | Used by a German operator temporarily operating from Switzerland. | 1 | `BD214` |
| `HB3/DO7PR` | German CEPT-Novice station temporarily in Switzerland. | Correct novice CEPT call-sign form in Switzerland. | Used by a German novice operator temporarily operating from Switzerland. | 1 | `BD213` |
| `EA6VQ` and `DF1KW` | Spanish caller and German answering station. | Correct way to answer a CQ call in English. | Used when replying directly to a station that called CQ. | 1 | `BE104` |
| `4U1ITU` | ITU station example calling specific prefixes. | `CQ VK/ZL` asks only Australia or New Zealand. | Used as a calling station that restricts replies to wanted areas. | 1 | `BE110` |
| `N4EAX` | US station calling Germany. | `CQ DL` means the station seeks a German amateur. | Used when a station calls for a particular country prefix. | 1 | `BE113` |
| `HB9AFN` | Swiss station calling DX. | `CQ DX` on 20 m seeks another continent in the exam example. | Used when a station requests long-distance or intercontinental replies. | 1 | `BE114` |
| `HZ1HZ` and `K8PYD` | Station and QSL manager example. | `QSL via K8PYD` means send the card through the QSL manager. | Used when a station delegates QSL-card handling to another call sign. | 1 | `BG109` |
| `K3LR`, `W3DZZ`, `K4EAX` | Correct USA-only answer set. | All three are US call signs. | Used as examples of US call-sign prefixes `K` and `W`. | 1 | `BD315` |
| `W0FKK`, `N6CAL`, `VE5VK` | Mixed USA and Canada distractor set. | `VE5VK` is Canadian, so the set is not USA-only. | Used to distinguish US prefixes from Canadian `VE`. | 1 | `BD315` |
| `US2ABC`, `AB0GC`, `W4EAX` | Mixed distractor set. | `US2ABC` is not a US call sign in this question context. | Used to avoid assuming every call starting with `US` means USA. | 1 | `BD315` |
| `K1TTT`, `KA7KLE`, `UA3RUS` | Mixed USA and Russia distractor set. | `UA3RUS` is not a US call sign. | Used to distinguish US `K` or `KA` calls from Russian `UA`. | 1 | `BD315` |
## Lookup and Identification Rules
| Topic | What it identifies | What the exam tests | Explanation, when actually used | Exam references | Question IDs |
|---|---|---|---|---:|---|
| International prefix regulation | Prefixes for amateur radio call signs. | Prefixes are internationally regulated in the Radio Regulations. | Used as the legal basis for recognizing country allocations. | 1 | `VA406` |
| Unknown country prefix lookup | Where to find an unknown country prefix. | Use the ITU country-prefix list, amateur radio handbooks, and call-sign lists. | Used when a heard call sign has an unfamiliar prefix. | 1 | `BD301` |
| International callbook | Address lookup for foreign amateurs. | Foreign addresses can be found in an international callbook or internet sources. | Used when sending a direct QSL card. | 2 | `BG109`, `BG110` |
| QSL-card call signs | Minimum QSL-card call-sign data. | QSL cards should include own call sign and the other station's call sign. | Used to document a completed QSO correctly. | 1 | `BG105` |
| Listening without a call sign | Receiving amateur transmissions. | Receiving amateur radio transmissions does not require amateur service admission. | Used to distinguish SWL reception from transmitting. | 1 | `VD102` |
references/Frequencies.md
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# IARU Region 1 Frequency Recommendations
This reference summarizes the IARU Region 1 band-plan frequency
recommendations. IARU band plans are operating recommendations; German
legal privileges, power limits, bandwidth limits, and allocations still
come from AFuV Anlage 1 and BNetzA notices.
Sources checked May 26, 2026:
- IARU Region 1 Band Plans: <https://www.iaru-r1.org/on-the-air/band-plans/>
- HF Band Plan PDF: <https://www.iaru-r1.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/hf_r1_bandplan.pdf>
- VHF and up Bandplanning: <https://www.iaru-r1.org/about-us/committees-and-working-groups/vhf-uhf-shf-committee-c5/vhf-up-bandplanning/>
- VHF PDF: <https://www.iaru-r1.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/VHF-Bandplan.pdf>
- UHF PDF: <https://www.iaru-r1.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/UHF-Bandplan.pdf>
- SHF PDF: <https://www.iaru-r1.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/SHF-Bandplan.pdf>
- Microwave PDF: <https://www.iaru-r1.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/%C2%B5W-Bandplan.pdf>
Bold entries are directly referenced by exam questions in the BNetzA
catalog, mainly `BC201` to `BC222`, `BE410`, and `BF109`.
## General Recommendations
| Recommendation | Details | Questions |
|---|---|---|
| **Band plans are recommendations** | They are intended to help all radio amateurs share spectrum efficiently. | `BC201` |
| **SSB sideband below 10 MHz** | Lower sideband (LSB) is recommended below 10 MHz. | `BC202` |
| **SSB sideband above 10 MHz** | Upper sideband (USB) is recommended above 10 MHz. The 5 MHz band is an exception where USB is recommended. | `BC203` |
| **CW usage** | **CW is accepted across all bands except beacon segments. IARU tables still place the usual CW/preferred narrowband ranges near the beginning of each band.** | `BC204` |
| Contest-free HF bands | Contest activity should not take place on 5, 10, 18, and 24 MHz. | |
| Unmanned transmitting stations | Unmanned stations and operation involving unmanned stations must follow the band-plan frequency and bandwidth limits. | |
## Study Patterns
| Pattern | How to use it in questions |
|---|---|
| CW and very narrow modes live low in the band | When an answer asks about Morsetelegrafie, MGM, or narrow digital modes, first check the lower edge of the band: 144.025-144.150 MHz on 2 m, 432.000-432.100 MHz on 70 cm, and the first HF segments. |
| SSB is above the CW/narrow area, but still below FM | On 2 m, SSB sits around 144.150-144.400 MHz and the centre is 144.300 MHz. On 70 cm, SSB is around 432.100-432.400 MHz and the centre is 432.200 MHz. |
| Beacon areas are protected and not for normal QSOs | On 2 m, 144.400-144.490 MHz is beacons. On 70 cm, 432.400-432.490 MHz is beacons. HF has tiny International Beacon Project windows around 14, 18, 21, 24, and 28 MHz. |
| FM calling frequencies are easy anchors | Analog FM calling is 145.500 MHz on 2 m and 433.500 MHz on 70 cm. Digital voice calling is 145.375 MHz on 2 m and 433.450 MHz on 70 cm. |
| Repeater outputs are higher than simplex on 2 m and high on 70 cm | 2 m repeater outputs start at 145.575 MHz, so the exam's 145.600 MHz example is already in the repeater-output block. The exam's 439.200 MHz example is in the 70 cm repeater-output block. |
| Satellite and space ranges are high in the VHF/UHF examples | The top of 2 m is space/satellite: 145.794-145.806 MHz is space communication and 145.806-146.000 MHz is satellite exclusive. 435-438 MHz is satellite service on 70 cm. |
| SSB sideband rule is split at 10 MHz | Below 10 MHz use LSB; above 10 MHz use USB. Memorize: 80 m is LSB, 20 m is USB. |
| Emergency centres are memorable roundish HF numbers | 3760, 7110, 14300, 18160, and 21360 kHz are the IARU Region 1/global emergency centres used in the question catalog. |
## HF Band Plan
### 135.7-137.8 kHz (2200 m, LF, Langwelle)
This is a very narrow experimental long-wave band. Activity is mostly CW, QRSS, WSPR-style weak-signal work, and careful propagation experiments. Antennas are physically difficult at this wavelength, so efficient stations are rare and signals are often weak; ground-wave and night-enhanced propagation matter more than ordinary shortwave-style operation.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 135.7-137.8 kHz | 200 Hz | CW, QRSS, and narrow-band digital modes | |
### 472-479 kHz (630 m, MF, Mittelwelle)
This medium-wave band is mainly used for CW and narrow digital modes. Daytime contacts tend to rely on ground-wave coverage, while night-time conditions can open longer paths. Like 2200 m, it rewards patient weak-signal operating and efficient antenna systems.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 472-475 kHz | 200 Hz | CW | |
| 475-479 kHz | 500 Hz suggested | CW and digital modes | |
### 1.8 MHz (160 m, MF, Mittelwelle)
The 160 m band is often called top band. It behaves partly like medium wave and partly like HF: local or regional coverage is possible, but serious DX is usually a night-time project. Noise levels can be high, so CW and narrow modes at the low end are especially important.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1810-1838 kHz | 200 Hz | CW; 1836 kHz CW QRP centre of activity | |
| 1838-1840 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes | |
| 1840-1843 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; digital modes | |
| 1843-2000 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes | |
### 3.5 MHz (80 m, HF, Kurzwelle)
The 80 m band is a workhorse for regional HF communication, especially in the evening and at night. It is useful for nets, local-to-regional contacts, and emergency practice. For exam purposes, remember that SSB voice normally uses LSB here, CW and digital modes sit low in the band, and 3760 kHz is the Region 1 emergency centre.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3500-3510 kHz | 200 Hz | CW; priority for intercontinental operation | |
| 3510-3560 kHz | 200 Hz | CW; 3555 kHz CW QRS centre | |
| 3560-3570 kHz | 200 Hz | CW; 3560 kHz CW QRP centre | |
| 3570-3580 kHz | 200 Hz | Narrow-band modes; digital modes | |
| 3580-3590 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes; digital modes | |
| 3590-3600 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes; digital modes and automatically controlled data stations | |
| 3600-3620 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; digital modes and automatically controlled data stations | |
| 3600-3650 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; 3630 kHz digital voice centre of activity | |
| 3650-3700 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; 3690 kHz SSB QRP centre | |
| 3700-3775 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; 3735 kHz image centre; **3760 kHz Region 1 emergency centre of activity** | `BF109` |
| 3775-3800 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; SSB contest preferred, priority for intercontinental operation | |
### 5 MHz (60 m, HF, Kurzwelle)
The 60 m band is a small, channel-like HF allocation with a reputation for reliable regional and NVIS-style communication. It can bridge the gap when 80 m is too low and 40 m is too long. Unlike the normal below-10-MHz sideband rule, USB is recommended for voice here.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5351.5-5354.0 kHz | 200 Hz | CW and narrow-band modes | |
| 5354.0-5366.0 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; USB recommended for voice operation | |
| 5366.0-5366.5 kHz | 20 Hz | Weak-signal narrow-band modes | |
### 7 MHz (40 m, HF, Kurzwelle)
The 40 m band is one of the most useful all-round HF bands. It often gives regional coverage during the day and longer-distance contacts after dark. CW and digital modes are low in the band, SSB is higher, and 7110 kHz is the Region 1 emergency centre.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7000-7040 kHz | 200 Hz | CW; 7030 kHz CW QRP centre | |
| 7040-7047 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes; digital modes | |
| 7047-7050 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes; digital modes and automatically controlled data stations | |
| 7050-7053 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; digital modes and automatically controlled data stations | |
| 7053-7060 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; digital modes | |
| 7060-7100 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; 7070 kHz digital voice centre; 7090 kHz SSB QRP centre | |
| 7100-7130 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; **7110 kHz Region 1 emergency centre of activity** | `BF109` |
| 7130-7175 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; 7165 kHz image centre | |
| 7175-7200 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; SSB contest preferred, priority for intercontinental activity | |
### 10 MHz (30 m, HF, Kurzwelle)
The 30 m band is a narrow-band-focused WARC band. It is especially attractive for CW and digital DX because it is relatively quiet and contest activity is not recommended. Think of it as a precise, low-bandwidth band rather than a general voice band.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10100-10130 kHz | 200 Hz | CW; 10116 kHz CW QRP centre | |
| 10130-10150 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes; digital modes | |
### 14 MHz (20 m, HF, Kurzwelle)
The 20 m band is the classic daytime DX band and one of the first places many operators check for international contacts. SSB voice normally uses USB. The International Beacon Project sits near 14.100 MHz, and 14.300 MHz is a global emergency centre of activity.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14000-14060 kHz | 200 Hz | CW; 14055 kHz QRS centre | |
| 14060-14070 kHz | 200 Hz | CW; 14060 kHz CW QRP centre | |
| 14070-14089 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes; digital modes | |
| 14089-14099 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes; digital modes and automatically controlled data stations | |
| **14099-14101 kHz** | - | **International Beacon Project; beacons exclusively** | `BE410` |
| 14101-14112 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; digital modes and automatically controlled data stations | |
| 14112-14125 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes | |
| 14125-14300 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; 14130 kHz digital voice centre; 14195 +/- 5 kHz priority for DXpeditions; 14230 kHz image centre; 14285 kHz SSB QRP centre | |
| 14300-14350 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; **14300 kHz global emergency centre of activity** | `BF109` |
### 18 MHz (17 m, HF, Kurzwelle)
The 17 m band is a WARC band between 20 m and 15 m. It often feels less crowded than the contest-heavy bands and can be excellent for DX when the ionosphere supports it. Expect CW and digital activity lower down and SSB higher up.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18068-18095 kHz | 200 Hz | CW; 18086 kHz CW QRP centre | |
| 18095-18105 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes; digital modes | |
| 18105-18109 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes; digital modes and automatically controlled data stations | |
| **18109-18111 kHz** | - | **International Beacon Project; beacons exclusively** | `BE410` |
| 18111-18120 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; digital modes and automatically controlled data stations | |
| 18120-18168 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; 18130 kHz SSB QRP centre; 18150 kHz digital voice centre; **18160 kHz emergency centre of activity** | `BF109` |
### 21 MHz (15 m, HF, Kurzwelle)
The 15 m band is a daylight DX band that becomes much more lively when solar activity is good. When open, it can support strong worldwide signals with modest antennas. CW and digital modes sit low, SSB is higher, and 21.360 MHz is an emergency centre.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21000-21070 kHz | 200 Hz | CW; 21055 kHz QRS centre; 21060 kHz QRP centre | |
| 21070-21090 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes; digital modes | |
| 21090-21110 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes; digital modes and automatically controlled data stations | |
| 21110-21120 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; digital modes and automatically controlled data stations, not SSB | |
| 21120-21149 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes | |
| **21149-21151 kHz** | - | **International Beacon Project; beacons exclusively** | `BE410` |
| 21151-21450 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; 21180 kHz digital voice centre; 21285 kHz SSB QRP centre; 21340 kHz image centre; **21360 kHz global emergency centre of activity** | `BF109` |
### 24 MHz (12 m, HF, Kurzwelle)
The 12 m band is an upper-HF WARC band. It can be quiet for long periods and then suddenly open for excellent DX, especially in better solar conditions. The small beacon window near 24.930 MHz is useful for checking whether the band is alive.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24890-24915 kHz | 200 Hz | CW; 24906 kHz CW QRP centre | |
| 24915-24925 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes; digital modes | |
| 24925-24929 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes; digital modes and automatically controlled data stations | |
| **24929-24931 kHz** | - | **International Beacon Project; beacons exclusively** | `BE410` |
| 24931-24940 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; digital modes and automatically controlled data stations | |
| 24940-24990 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; 24950 kHz SSB QRP centre; 24960 kHz digital voice centre | |
### 28 MHz (10 m, HF, Kurzwelle)
The 10 m band is the top end of HF and can feel almost like VHF when closed, yet support worldwide ionospheric DX when solar activity is strong. It also has room for FM, repeaters, and satellite links, so it is more varied than most lower HF bands.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28000-28070 kHz | 200 Hz | CW; 28055 kHz QRS centre; 28060 kHz QRP centre | |
| 28070-28120 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes; digital modes | |
| 28120-28150 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes; digital modes and automatically controlled data stations | |
| 28150-28190 kHz | 500 Hz | Narrow-band modes | |
| **28190-28199 kHz** | - | **International Beacon Project; regional time-shared beacons exclusively** | `BE410` |
| **28199-28201 kHz** | - | **International Beacon Project; worldwide time-shared beacons exclusively** | `BE410` |
| **28201-28225 kHz** | - | **International Beacon Project; continuous-duty beacons exclusively** | `BE410` |
| 28225-28300 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; beacons | |
| 28300-28320 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; digital modes and automatically controlled data stations | |
| 28320-29000 kHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; 28330 kHz digital voice centre; 28360 kHz SSB QRP centre; 28680 kHz image centre | |
| 29000-29100 kHz | unrestricted | All modes | |
| 29100-29200 kHz | unrestricted | All modes; FM simplex, 10 kHz channels | |
| 29200-29300 kHz | unrestricted | All modes; digital modes and automatically controlled data stations | |
| 29300-29510 kHz | unrestricted | Satellite links | |
| 29510-29520 kHz | - | Guard channel | |
| 29520-29590 kHz | 6000 Hz | All modes; FM repeater input RH1-RH8 | |
| 29600 kHz | 6000 Hz | All modes; FM calling channel | |
| 29610 kHz | 6000 Hz | All modes; FM simplex repeater/parrot input and output | |
| 29620-29700 kHz | 6000 Hz | All modes; FM repeater output RH1-RH8 | |
## VHF Band Plan
### 50 MHz (6 m, VHF, UKW)
The 6 m band is known as the magic band because it usually behaves like VHF, then suddenly produces surprising long-distance openings. Most everyday paths are line-of-sight, but sporadic-E, meteor scatter, aurora, and occasional F-layer propagation make it a favorite for propagation watchers.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50.000-50.100 MHz | 500 Hz | Coordinated Beacon Project; telegraphy; 50.050 MHz centre of activity; 50.090 MHz intercontinental centre of activity | |
| 50.100-50.200 MHz | 2700 Hz | SSB and telegraphy; 50.100-50.130 MHz intercontinental; 50.110 MHz centre of activity; 50.130-50.200 MHz international; 50.150 MHz centre of activity | |
| 50.200-50.300 MHz | 2700 Hz | SSB and telegraphy; general use; 50.285 MHz crossband | |
| 50.300-50.400 MHz | 2700 Hz | Narrow-band modes and MGM; 50.305 MHz PSK centre; 50.310-50.320 MHz EME centre; 50.320-50.380 MHz MS centre | |
| 50.400-50.500 MHz | 1000 Hz | MGM and telegraphy; beacons exclusive; 50.401 MHz +/- 500 Hz WSPR beacons | |
| 50.500-52.000 MHz | 12 kHz or local subplan | All modes; SSTV, image, RTTY, digital communications, DV, FM/DV repeaters, FM/DV simplex, 51.510 MHz FM calling | |
| 52.000-54.000 MHz | 500 kHz | All modes | |
### 70 MHz (4 m, VHF, UKW)
The 4 m band is a VHF band with a mix of ordinary line-of-sight operation and interesting propagation such as sporadic-E and meteor scatter. Availability differs by country, so the band is less universal than 2 m or 70 cm.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 70.000-70.090 MHz | 1000 Hz | MGM and telegraphy; coordinated beacons | |
| 70.090-70.100 MHz | 1000 Hz | MGM and telegraphy; temporary and personal beacons; 70.091 MHz personal WSPR beacons | |
| 70.100-70.250 MHz | 2700 Hz | SSB, telegraphy, MGM; 70.185 MHz crossband centre; 70.200 MHz CW/SSB calling centre; 70.250 MHz MS centre | |
| 70.250-70.294 MHz | 12 kHz | AM and FM; 70.260 MHz AM/FM calling; 70.270 MHz MGM centre | |
| 70.294-70.500 MHz | 12.5 kHz spacing | FM channels; 70.3125 MHz digital communications; 70.3250 MHz digital communications; 70.4500 MHz FM calling; 70.4875 MHz digital communications | |
### 144 MHz (2 m, VHF, UKW)
The 2 m band is the everyday VHF band for many amateurs. The lower part is where weak-signal work, CW, narrow digital modes, and SSB live; FM simplex and repeaters are higher up; space and satellite activity sit at the top. This layout is heavily tested in the exam catalog.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 144.000-144.025 MHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; satellite downlink only | |
| **144.025-144.100 MHz** | **500 Hz** | **MGM and telegraphy; 144.050 MHz telegraphy centre of activity** | `BC213` |
| **144.100-144.150 MHz** | **500 Hz** | **MGM and telegraphy; EME activity around 144.110-144.160 MHz** | `BC214` |
| **144.150-144.400 MHz** | **2700 Hz** | **MGM, telegraphy, and SSB; 144.195-144.205 MHz MS centre** | `BC210` |
| **144.300 MHz** | 2700 Hz | **SSB centre of activity / calling frequency** | `BC211` |
| **144.400-144.490 MHz** | **500 Hz** | **MGM and telegraphy; beacons exclusive** | `BC215` |
| 144.491-144.493 MHz | - | Personal weak-signal MGM / experimental MGM | |
| 144.500-144.794 MHz | 20 kHz | All modes; 144.500 MHz image; 144.600 MHz data; 144.750 MHz ATV | |
| 144.794-144.9625 MHz | 12 kHz | Digital communications | |
| 144.975-145.194 MHz | 12 kHz | FM/DV repeater input channels | |
| 145.194-145.206 MHz | 12 kHz | Space communication | |
| **145.206-145.5625 MHz** | **12 kHz** | **FM/DV simplex channels; 145.2375, 145.2875, and 145.3375 MHz FM internet voice gateways** | `BC209` |
| **145.375 MHz** | 12 kHz | **Digital voice calling** | `BC207` |
| **145.500 MHz** | 12 kHz | **FM calling frequency** | `BC205` |
| **145.525 MHz** | 12 kHz | **Narrow FM area; do not occupy more than about 12 kHz bandwidth** | `BC216` |
| **145.575-145.7935 MHz** | **12 kHz** | **FM/DV repeater output channels** | `BC217` |
| **145.794-145.806 MHz** | **12 kHz** | **Space communication** | `BC218` |
| 145.806-146.000 MHz | - | Satellite exclusive | |
## UHF Band Plan
### 430-440 MHz (70 cm, UHF, Dezimeterwelle)
The 70 cm band is the everyday UHF companion to 2 m. It is more line-of-sight and more affected by buildings and terrain, but antennas are smaller and repeaters, digital voice, and satellite work are common. Weak-signal activity is near 432 MHz, while 435-438 MHz is satellite territory.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 430.000-431.975 MHz | 20 kHz | All modes; subregional planning; FM repeater outputs, digital communications, multimode channels, repeater inputs | |
| **432.000-432.100 MHz** | **500 Hz** | **MGM and telegraphy; 432.050 MHz telegraphy centre of activity** | `BC219` |
| 432.100-432.400 MHz | 2700 Hz | MGM, telegraphy, and SSB; **432.200 MHz SSB centre of activity**; 432.350 MHz microwave talkback; 432.370 MHz meteor scatter | `BC212` |
| **432.400-432.490 MHz** | **500 Hz** | **MGM and telegraphy; beacons exclusive** | `BC220` |
| 432.191-432.193 MHz | 500 Hz | Experimental MGM | |
| 432.500-432.975 MHz | 12 kHz | All modes; 432.500 MHz new APRS frequency; 432.600-432.9875 MHz repeater input, Region 1 standard, 25 kHz spacing, 2 MHz shift | |
| 433.000-433.375 MHz | 12 kHz | FM / digital voice repeaters; repeater input, Region 1 standard, 25 kHz spacing, 1.6 MHz shift | |
| 433.400-433.575 MHz | 12 kHz | FM / digital voice; 433.400 MHz SSTV FM/AFSK | |
| **433.450 MHz** | 12 kHz | **Digital voice calling** | `BC208` |
| **433.500 MHz** | 12 kHz | **FM calling** | `BC206` |
| 433.600-434.000 MHz | none | All modes; 433.625-433.775 MHz digital communication channels; 434.000 MHz centre frequency of digital experiments | |
| 434.000-434.594 MHz | 12 kHz | All modes / ATV; 434.450-434.575 MHz digital communication channels | |
| 434.594-434.981 MHz | 12 kHz | All modes; 434.600-434.9875 MHz repeater output, 12.5 kHz spacing, 1.6 or 2 MHz shift | |
| **435.000-436.000 MHz** | none | **Satellite service** | `BC221` |
| **436.000-438.000 MHz** | none | **Satellite service and DATV/data** | `BC221` |
| 438.000-440.000 MHz | none | All modes; digital communication channels, repeater channels, multimode, links | |
| **438.650-439.425 MHz** | none | **Repeater output channels, 7.6 MHz shift** | `BC222` |
### 1240-1300 MHz (23 cm, UHF, Dezimeterwelle)
The 23 cm band starts to feel like microwave operating while still being accessible to many stations. It is used for weak-signal work around 1296 MHz, repeaters, ATV/DATV, data links, and satellite segments. Directional antennas become small enough to be practical.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1240.000-1240.500 MHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; reserved for the future | |
| 1240.500-1240.750 MHz | 500 Hz | MGM and telegraphy; beacons, reserved for the future | |
| 1240.750-1241.000 MHz | 20 kHz | FM / digital voice; reserved for the future | |
| 1241.000-1243.250 MHz | 20 kHz | All modes; 1242.025-1242.250 MHz repeater output; 1242.275-1242.700 MHz repeater output; 1242.725-1243.250 MHz digital communications | |
| 1243.250-1260.000 MHz | national bandwidth limits | (D)ATV; 1258.150-1259.350 MHz repeater output | |
| 1260.000-1270.000 MHz | national bandwidth limits | Satellite service | |
| 1270.000-1272.000 MHz | 20 kHz | All modes; 1270.025-1270.700 MHz repeater input; 1270.725-1271.250 MHz digital communication | |
| 1272.000-1290.994 MHz | national bandwidth limits | (D)ATV | |
| 1290.994-1291.481 MHz | 20 kHz | FM / digital voice; repeater input, 25 kHz spacing | |
| 1291.494-1296.000 MHz | national bandwidth limits | All modes; 1293.150-1294.350 MHz repeater input R20-R68 | |
| 1296.000-1296.150 MHz | 500 Hz | MGM and telegraphy; 1296.000-1296.025 MHz moonbounce; 1296.138 MHz PSK31 centre of activity | |
| 1296.150-1296.800 MHz | 2700 Hz | MGM, telegraphy, and SSB; 1296.200 MHz narrow-band centre; 1296.400-1296.600 MHz linear transponder input; 1296.500 MHz fax; 1296.600 MHz narrow-band data centre; 1296.600-1296.700 MHz linear transponder output; 1296.741-1296.743 MHz experimental MGM; 1296.750-1296.800 MHz local beacons | |
| 1296.800-1296.994 MHz | 500 Hz | MGM and telegraphy; beacons exclusive | |
| 1296.994-1297.481 MHz | 20 kHz | FM / digital voice; repeater output, 25 kHz spacing | |
| 1297.494-1297.981 MHz | 20 kHz | FM / digital voice; 1297.500 MHz SM20 and FM activity centre; 1297.725 MHz digital voice calling; 1297.900-1297.975 MHz simplex FM internet gateways; 1297.975 MHz SM39 | |
| 1298.000-1299.000 MHz | 20 kHz | All modes; mixed analogue/digital use, 25 kHz spacing channels; 1298.025 MHz RS1 to 1298.975 MHz RS39 | |
| 1299.000-1299.750 MHz | 150 kHz | All modes; five high-speed digital data channels centred on 1299.075, 1299.225, 1299.375, 1299.525, and 1299.675 MHz | |
| 1299.750-1300.000 MHz | 20 kHz | All modes; eight 25 kHz channels available for FM/DV use, centres 1299.775-1299.975 MHz | |
### 2300-2450 MHz (13 cm, UHF, Dezimeterwelle)
The 13 cm band is mostly line-of-sight and has a microwave operating style. It supports narrowband work, ATV/data segments, and amateur satellite use near 2400 MHz. Antenna aiming and local obstacles matter much more than on HF.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2300.000-2320.000 MHz | 20 kHz | All modes; 2304-2306 MHz narrow-band segment where 2320-2322 MHz is unavailable; 2308-2310 MHz narrow-band segment in HB | |
| 2320.000-2320.800 MHz | none | All modes; 2320.000-2320.025 MHz EME; 2320.200 MHz SSB centre; 2320.750-2320.800 MHz local beacons, 10 W ERP maximum | |
| 2320.800-2321.000 MHz | - | MGM and telegraphy; beacons exclusive | |
| 2321.000-2322.000 MHz | 20 kHz | FM / digital voice; voice simplex and repeaters | |
| 2322.000-2400.000 MHz | none | All modes; 2322.000-2355.000 MHz ATV; 2355.000-2365.000 MHz digital communications; 2365.000-2370.000 MHz repeaters; 2370.000-2392.000 MHz ATV; 2392.000-2400.000 MHz digital communications | |
| 2400.000-2450.000 MHz | - | Amateur satellite service; 2400-2402 MHz narrow-band segment where 2320-2322 MHz is unavailable; 2427.000-2443.000 MHz ATV if no satellite uses the segment | |
## SHF Band Plan
### 3400-3475 MHz (9 cm, SHF, Zentimeterwelle)
The 9 cm band is an SHF microwave band where line-of-sight paths, beam antennas, and beacons become central. It is a band for experimenters: small antennas can have useful gain, but accurate pointing and low-loss feedlines matter.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3400.000-3400.800 MHz | 500 Hz | MGM and telegraphy; 3400.100 MHz EME centre; 3400.750-3400.800 MHz local beacons | |
| 3400.800-3400.995 MHz | 500 Hz | MGM and telegraphy; beacons only | |
| 3401.000-3402.000 MHz | 2700 Hz | All modes | |
| 3402.000-3410.000 MHz | none | All modes; satellite downlinks | |
| 3410.000-3475.000 MHz | none | All modes | |
### 5650-5850 MHz (6 cm, SHF, Zentimeterwelle)
The 6 cm band is used for microwave experiments, data, ATV, and satellite uplink/downlink segments. Antennas are compact and directional, so even portable stations can use meaningful gain. Propagation is mostly optical-path style with occasional enhancements.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5650.000-5668.000 MHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; amateur satellite service uplink | |
| 5668.000-5670.000 MHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; 5668.200 MHz narrow-band centre; amateur satellite service uplink | |
| 5670.000-5700.000 MHz | none | MGM | |
| 5720.000-5760.000 MHz | none | All modes | |
| 5760.000-5760.800 MHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; 5760.200 MHz narrow-band centre; 5760.750-5760.800 MHz local beacon | |
| 5760.800-5760.990 MHz | none | MGM and telegraphy; beacons only | |
| 5761.000-5762.000 MHz | 2700 Hz | All modes | |
| 5762.000-5790.000 MHz | none | All modes | |
| 5790.000-5850.000 MHz | none | All modes; amateur satellite service downlink | |
### 10-10.500 GHz (3 cm, SHF, Zentimeterwelle)
The 3 cm band is one of the classic amateur microwave bands. The narrowband activity centre around 10.368 GHz is a key anchor. Operation is strongly line-of-sight, and terrain, rain, equipment stability, and dish alignment all become part of the skill.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10000.000-10150.000 MHz | none | MGM | |
| 10150.000-10250.000 MHz | none | All modes | |
| 10250.000-10350.000 MHz | none | MGM | |
| 10350.000-10368.000 MHz | none | All modes | |
| 10368.000-10368.800 MHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; 10368.200 MHz narrow-band centre; 10368.750-10368.800 MHz local beacon | |
| 10368.800-10368.990 MHz | - | Beacons only | |
| 10369.000-10370.000 MHz | 2700 Hz | All modes | |
| 10370.000-10450.000 MHz | - | All modes | |
| 10450.000-10500.000 MHz | - | All modes; 10450-10452 MHz narrow-band modes where 10368-10370 MHz is unavailable; amateur satellite service | |
### 24-24.250 GHz (1.2 cm, SHF, Zentimeterwelle)
The 1.2 cm band is high microwave territory. Contacts are usually short-path or carefully planned longer line-of-sight attempts, and accurate antenna pointing is critical. The lower edge carries narrowband and satellite-related activity.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24000.000-24048.000 MHz | - | All modes; 24.025 GHz wideband centre; amateur satellite service | |
| 24048.000-24048.800 MHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; 24.0482 GHz narrow-band centre; amateur satellite service narrow-band modes; 24048.750-24048.800 MHz local beacon | |
| 24048.800-24048.995 MHz | - | All modes; beacons only | |
| 24049.000-24050.000 MHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; amateur satellite service; narrow-band modes | |
| 24050.000-24250.000 MHz | - | All modes | |
## Microwave Band Plan
### 47.0-47.2 GHz (6 mm, EHF, Millimeterwelle)
The 6 mm band is a millimeter-wave experimental band. Signals are highly directional, paths are usually short, and weather plus equipment stability become major factors. This is specialist territory rather than routine communication.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 47.000-47.088 GHz | none | All modes | |
| 47.088-47.090 GHz | 2700 Hz | All modes | |
| 47.090-47.200 GHz | none | All modes | |
### 75.5-81.5 GHz (4 mm, EHF, Millimeterwelle)
The 4 mm band is for specialist millimeter-wave experiments. Antennas are very directional, atmospheric absorption and weather are important, and successful contacts often depend on careful path planning and precise alignment.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 75.500-76.000 GHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; amateur satellite service preferred; 75.976200 GHz preferred narrow-band centre | |
| 76.000-77.500 GHz | none | All modes; 76.032200 GHz narrow-band centre in some countries, not preferred | |
| 77.500-77.501 GHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; 77.500200 GHz preferred narrow-band centre outside CEPT area; amateur satellite service | |
| 77.501-78.000 GHz | none | All modes; preferred segment | |
| 78.000-81.500 GHz | none | All modes; not preferred segment | |
### 122-123 GHz (2.5 mm, EHF, Millimeterwelle)
The 2.5 mm band is a very high millimeter-wave experimental band. Most activity is short line-of-sight work with narrowband techniques, where building stable equipment and proving the path are the main challenges.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 122.250-122.251 GHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; narrow-band modes | |
| 122.251-123.000 GHz | none | All modes | |
### 134-141 GHz (2 mm, EHF, Millimeterwelle)
The 2 mm band is a specialist millimeter-wave range. Short-distance experiments, precise antenna alignment, frequency stability, and low-loss construction dominate the operating experience.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 134.000-134.928 GHz | none | All modes; amateur satellite service | |
| 134.928-134.930 GHz | 2700 Hz | All modes; 134.930 GHz narrow-band centre | |
| 134.930-136.000 GHz | none | All modes | |
| 136.000-141.000 GHz | none | All modes; not preferred segment | |
### 241-250 GHz (1.2 mm, EHF, Millimeterwelle)
The 1.2 mm band is at the extreme end of amateur millimeter-wave operation. It is almost entirely experimental, with short paths, severe atmospheric effects, and demanding equipment constraints. Contacts here are engineering achievements as much as radio QSOs.
| Frequency segment | Max bandwidth | Recommendation | Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 241.000-248.000 GHz | none | All modes; not preferred segment | |
| 248.000-248.001 GHz | none | All modes; amateur satellite service and narrow-band modes | |
| 248.001-250.000 GHz | none | All modes; preferred segment | |
## Exam-Highlighted Entries
| Question | What is being asked | Correct answer | How to memorize |
|---|---|---|---|
| `BC201` | Whether IARU band plans are legally binding or recommendations. | They are recommendations whose observance benefits all radio amateurs. | IARU = coordination, not law. Law is AFuV/BNetzA; IARU is "please use the band this way". |
| `BC202` | Which sideband is normally used for SSB voice on 80 m. | LSB. | 80 m is below 10 MHz, so use the "low" sideband: LSB. |
| `BC203` | Which sideband is normally used for SSB voice on 20 m. | USB. | 20 m is above 10 MHz, so use the "upper" sideband: USB. |
| `BC204` | Where IARU usually puts Morse telegraphy inside amateur bands. | At the beginning / lower end of the band. | Morse is narrow and goes first: low edge = CW edge. |
| `BC205` | General analog FM calling frequency on 2 m. | 145.500 MHz. | 2 m FM calling is the classic "145 five hundred". |
| `BC206` | General analog FM calling frequency on 70 cm. | 433.500 MHz. | Same pattern as 2 m: analog FM calling ends in .500, here 433.500. |
| `BC207` | General digital voice calling frequency on 2 m. | 145.375 MHz. | Digital voice is below analog FM calling: 145.375 comes before 145.500. |
| `BC208` | General digital voice calling frequency on 70 cm. | 433.450 MHz. | Digital voice is just below analog FM calling: 433.450 before 433.500. |
| `BC209` | Which listed 2 m frequency is suitable for an FM voice QSO. | 145.450 MHz. | 145.206-145.5625 is the 2 m FM/DV simplex area; 145.450 sits safely inside it. |
| `BC210` | Which listed 2 m frequency is suitable for an SSB voice QSO. | 144.310 MHz. | SSB on 2 m clusters around 144.300; 144.310 is just next to the SSB centre. |
| `BC211` | 2 m SSB voice activity/calling centre. | 144.300 MHz. | "Two-meter SSB is 144.300" is the main anchor for the whole 2 m weak-signal area. |
| `BC212` | 70 cm SSB voice activity/calling centre. | 432.200 MHz. | 70 cm SSB mirrors 2 m weak-signal style: 432.200 is the SSB centre. |
| `BC213` | Why not use RTTY/PSK31/FT8 on 144.075 MHz. | That range is preferred for Morse telegraphy. | 144.075 is very low in the 2 m band, inside the CW/narrow area. |
| `BC214` | Why not use FM direct voice on 144.125 MHz. | The range is for Morse telegraphy and narrow-band digital modes. | 144.125 is still below the 144.150 SSB boundary: too low for FM. |
| `BC215` | Why not use FM direct voice on 144.450 MHz. | The range is reserved for beacons. | After the 2 m SSB area, 144.400-144.490 is the beacon block. |
| `BC216` | Why use narrow FM around 145.525 MHz. | IARU recommends not occupying more than about 12 kHz bandwidth there. | 145 MHz FM channels are narrow FM; think 12.5 kHz channel spacing. |
| `BC217` | Why not use 145.600 MHz for a local FM direct QSO. | It is in the repeater-output range. | 2 m repeater outputs begin at 145.575 MHz, so 145.600 is already in that block. |
| `BC218` | Why not use 145.800 MHz for a local FM direct QSO. | It is in the space communication range. | The top of 2 m is space/satellite: 145.800 is in the narrow space-communication slice just before the satellite-exclusive range. |
| `BC219` | Why not use 432.040 MHz for local FM voice. | It is in the MGM/telegraphy range. | 432.040 is near the bottom of 70 cm; low edge means CW/narrow. |
| `BC220` | Why not use 432.450 MHz for local FM voice. | It is in the beacon-exclusive range. | 70 cm beacon block is 432.400-432.490, just above SSB. |
| `BC221` | Why not use 435.500 MHz for local FM voice. | It is in the satellite service range. | On 70 cm, the middle block 435-438 MHz is satellite territory. |
| `BC222` | Why not use 439.200 MHz for local FM voice. | It is in the repeater-output range. | High 70 cm around 438.650-439.425 is repeater output; 439.200 is inside it. |
| `BE410` | Why specific small HF windows around 14, 18, 21, 24, and 28 MHz should be kept free. | They are International Beacon Project ranges and reserved for beacon observation. | The IBP windows are tiny slices near the upper end of the CW/narrow part of each HF band: 14099-14101, 18109-18111, 21149-21151, 24929-24931, 28190-28225 kHz. |
| `BF109` | What is special about 3760, 7110, 14300, 18160, and 21360 kHz. | They are IARU Region 1/global emergency centres of activity and should be kept available for emergency traffic. | Learn them as the emergency ladder: 3.760, 7.110, 14.300, 18.160, 21.360 MHz. |
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# Q-Codes and Operating Shorthand
This reference summarizes Q-groups and similar short operating messages
that appear in the BNetzA 2024 exam question catalog in
`data/2024-03-20-3-auflage/fragenkatalog3b.json`.
Reference counts are the number of exam question records where the code
appears in the question text or answer choices. For very short ambiguous
codes such as `DE` and `K`, the count includes only procedural radio usage,
not unrelated uses such as country/prefix examples, units, or ordinary
words. Mode names and technical abbreviations such as `CW`, `SSB`, `FM`,
`QAM`, and `RTTY` are intentionally not included.
## Q-Groups
| Code | What it means when question | What it means when not in question | Explanation, when actually used | Usage example | Exam references | Question IDs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| `QRM` | Are you being interfered with? | I am being interfered with; interference. | Used to report man-made interference or ask whether the other station has interference. | DL1ABC: `QRM?` / DO2XYZ: `QRM, pse repeat report.` | 2 | `BB201`, `BB204` |
| `QRN` | Are you troubled by atmospheric noise? | I have atmospheric noise. | Used when static crashes or atmospheric noise make reception difficult. | DL1ABC: `QRN here, ur report?` / DO2XYZ: `RST 55 despite QRN.` | 1 | `BB201` |
| `QRO` | Shall I increase transmitter power? | Increase transmitter power; I am increasing power. | Used when more power may be needed, usually after trying normal operating improvements first. | DL1ABC: `QRO?` / DO2XYZ: `PSE QRO, ur weak.` | 1 | `BB202` |
| `QRP` | Shall I decrease transmitter power? | Decrease transmitter power; I am decreasing power. | Used to request or announce reduced transmitter power; also describes low-power operation. | DL1ABC: `PSE QRP.` / DO2XYZ: `QRP 5 W now.` | 1 | `BB205` |
| `QRT` | Shall I stop transmitting? | Stop transmitting; I am stopping transmission. | Used to close down transmission or ask another station to stop transmitting. | DL1ABC: `I must QRT.` / DO2XYZ: `QSL, 73.` | 1 | `BB203` |
| `QRV` | Are you ready? | I am ready. | Used to ask if a station is ready, or to say that a station is available for traffic. | DL1ABC: `QRV?` / DO2XYZ: `QRV, go ahead.` | 2 | `BB204`, `BE107` |
| `QRX` | When will you call me again? | I will call you again; wait or stand by. | Used to ask for a later call or to tell the other station to wait. | DL1ABC: `QRX 5 min.` / DO2XYZ: `QSL, standing by.` | 1 | `BB202` |
| `QRZ` | Who is calling me? | You are being called by ...; in pile-ups also a request for further callers. | Used when a calling station was not copied, or by a wanted station to invite the next caller. | DL1ABC: `QRZ?` / DO2XYZ: `DO2XYZ calling.` | 6 | `BB203`, `BE101`, `BE104`, `BE107`, `BE112`, `BE115` |
| `QSB` | Is the strength of my signal fading? | Your signal strength is fading or fluctuating. | Used when signal strength rises and falls because of propagation. | DL1ABC: `QSB?` / DO2XYZ: `Yes, strong QSB, now 55.` | 2 | `BB201`, `BE107` |
| `QSL` | Can you acknowledge receipt? | I acknowledge receipt; also a confirmation card or electronic confirmation for a QSO. | Used to confirm that information was received, or later for contact confirmation. | DL1ABC: `My QTH Berlin, QSL?` / DO2XYZ: `QSL, Berlin copied.` | 12 | `BB203`, `BE103`, `BE210`, `BE307`, `BG104`, `BG105`, `BG106`, `BG107`, `BG108`, `BG109`, `BG110`, `BG111` |
| `QSO` | Can you communicate directly with ...? | I can communicate directly with ...; commonly a radio contact. | Used for the radio contact itself, or when asking whether direct contact is possible. | DL1ABC: `Tnx for QSO.` / DO2XYZ: `Tnx also, 73.` | 9 | `BB202`, `BE108`, `BE110`, `BE303`, `BE308`, `BG107`, `BG109`, `NF112`, `NG110` |
| `QSY` | Shall I change to another frequency? | Change frequency; I am changing frequency. | Used to move a contact away from a calling frequency or crowded channel. | DL1ABC: `PSE QSY 145.525.` / DO2XYZ: `QSL, QSY now.` | 3 | `BB206`, `BE103`, `BE107` |
| `QTH` | What is your position or location? | My position or location is ... | Used to ask for or give the station location, often city, locator, or portable position. | DL1ABC: `QTH?` / DO2XYZ: `QTH Munich, JN58.` | 3 | `BB204`, `BE101`, `BE111` |
## Operating Abbreviations
| Code | What it means when question | What it means when not in question | Explanation, when actually used | Usage example | Exam references | Question IDs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| `BK` | Not a Q-question form. | Break; signal to interrupt a running transmission, also used for informal handover. | Used in telegraphy to interrupt or quickly pass transmission without a formal over. | DL1ABC: `... antenna is BK` / DO2XYZ: `BK, pse repeat power.` | 1 | `BB108` |
| `CQ` | Not a Q-question form. | General call to any station. With an added target, it limits the desired replies, for example `CQ DX` or `CQ DL`. | Used to start a contact when no specific station is being called. | DL1ABC: `CQ CQ CQ de DL1ABC k` / DO2XYZ: `DL1ABC de DO2XYZ k` | 18 | `BB102`, `BB104`, `BB105`, `BE101`, `BE102`, `BE104`, `BE105`, `BE108`, `BE109`, `BE110`, `BE112`, `BE113`, `BE114`, `BE116`, `BE304`, `BE309`, `BE310`, `BE311` |
| `DE` | Not a Q-question form. | From; this is. Used before the sending station's call sign in telegraphy. | Used between the called station and own call sign, especially in CW. | DL1ABC: `CQ de DL1ABC k` / DO2XYZ: `DL1ABC de DO2XYZ k` | 4 | `BE104`, `BE112`, `BE113`, `BE114` |
| `DX` | Not a Q-question form. | Long distance. In `CQ DX`, the requested distance depends on band and context: intercontinental on HF in the exam examples, several hundred km on VHF/UHF. | Used to seek or describe long-distance contacts. | DL1ABC: `CQ DX de DL1ABC k` / PY2XYZ: `DL1ABC de PY2XYZ k` | 14 | `AH105`, `AH106`, `AH107`, `BB103`, `BB104`, `BB105`, `BE109`, `BE114`, `BE312`, `BE410`, `EH102`, `EH104`, `EH201`, `VE301` |
| `FD` | Not a Q-question form. | Field Day; in `CQ FD ... TEST`, a Fieldday contest call. | Used during Fieldday contest operation to attract participating stations. | DL1ABC/P: `CQ FD de DL1ABC/P TEST` / DO2XYZ/P: `DL1ABC/P de DO2XYZ/P 59 001` | 1 | `BE116` |
| `K` | Not a Q-question form. | Invitation to transmit; over or go ahead in telegraphy. | Used at the end of a CW transmission to invite the other station to reply. | DL1ABC: `DO2XYZ de DL1ABC k` / DO2XYZ: `DL1ABC de DO2XYZ k` | 4 | `BB109`, `BE112`, `BE113`, `BE114` |
| `PSE` | Not a Q-question form. | Please. Used with another instruction, for example `PSE QRP` or `PSE QSY`. | Used as a polite request marker in short CW or mixed shorthand. | DL1ABC: `PSE QSY 145.525` / DO2XYZ: `QSL, QSY.` | 4 | `BB205`, `BB206`, `BE112`, `BE113` |
| `R` | Not a Q-question form. | Received; everything before it was copied correctly. Sent at the start of a transmission to acknowledge the previous one. | Used in telegraphy to confirm full receipt before continuing with own traffic. | DL1ABC: `R tnx report, ur RST 579` / DO2XYZ: `QSL, 73.` | 1 | `BB110` |
| `RST` | Not a Q-question form. | Reception report: readability, signal strength, and tone quality. In SSB only `R` and `S` are normally given. | Used to exchange signal reports during a QSO or contest. | DL1ABC: `ur RST 599` / DO2XYZ: `tnx, ur 579.` | 9 | `BE201`, `BE202`, `BE203`, `BE204`, `BE205`, `BE206`, `BE207`, `BE208`, `BE209` |
| `TEST` | Not a Q-question form. | Contest call indicator in the catalog example `CQ FD ... TEST`. | Used in contest calls to show the call is for contest contacts. | DL1ABC: `CQ TEST de DL1ABC` / DO2XYZ: `DL1ABC de DO2XYZ 59 012` | 1 | `BE116` |
## Emergency and Safety Signals
These are not Q-groups. The catalog explicitly treats international
distress, urgency, and safety signals as outside normal amateur radio use.
| Code | What it means when question | What it means when not in question | Explanation, when actually used | Usage example | Exam references | Question IDs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| `MAYDAY` | Not a Q-question form. | International distress signal outside amateur radio; the catalog says it must not be used within amateur radio traffic. | Used in maritime or aeronautical distress traffic, not in normal amateur radio traffic. | Vessel: `MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY, this is DABC.` / Coast station: `DABC, this is Bremen Rescue, received MAYDAY.` | 5 | `BF101`, `BF102`, `BF103`, `BF104`, `VD105` |
| `SOS` | Not a Q-question form. | International distress signal outside amateur radio; the catalog says it must not be used within amateur radio traffic. | Used as an international distress signal, especially in Morse contexts outside amateur traffic. | Station: `SOS SOS SOS de DABC` / Coast station: `DABC de Rescue, SOS received.` | 2 | `BF101`, `BF102` |
| `PAN PAN` | Not a Q-question form. | International urgency signal; the catalog lists it among prohibited international emergency/urgency/safety signals in amateur radio traffic. | Used outside amateur radio for urgent situations that are serious but not yet distress. | Vessel: `PAN PAN, this is DABC, engine failure.` / Coast station: `DABC, report position.` | 1 | `VD105` |
| `SÉCURITÉ` | Not a Q-question form. | International safety signal; the catalog lists it among prohibited international emergency/urgency/safety signals in amateur radio traffic. | Used outside amateur radio for safety information such as navigation or weather warnings. | Coast station: `SECURITE, weather warning.` / Vessel: `Weather warning received.` | 1 | `VD105` |