You may only get 4 miles or even less. However, if a VHF wave and a UHF wave were transmitted over an area without barriers, the VHF wave would travel almost twice as far. The Even comparing handheld UHF vs VHF two-way radios, the maximum range of both is typically about 4 miles. So, your radio's range is only limited by your computer network. The fundamental difference is in the range of frequencies that they use. globally and in back-country areas where most other forms of communication are not available. Both ships have the same 25-watt radio, the difference in this example is the height of the antenna. However, a VHF signal is reflected because it’s significantly wider than a doorway. Walkie talkies that use this frequency will be a better choice for outdoor use. This band is often used for the outdoors only. ✔ Secure Online Purchasing Remember, UHF signals are shorter than VHF, this is important when you're in or around buildings. There is a formula for calculating distance to the horizon based on height, but it's a little technical (see section below "Calculating the Horizon"). The two most commonly used frequency ranges for two-way radios are VHF (Very High Frequency 130-174MHz), and UHF (Ultra High Frequency 400-520MHz). When you’re using walkie talkies, the signal is usually transmitted via UHF or VHF. UHF offers a better all-around signal and is the more popular option, due to its versatility. So more watts, along with a better antenna, equals longer range. If you’re not sure which type of system will work for you, then always go with UHF. You can get radios that use either UHF (Ultra High Frequency) or VHF (Very High Frequency). is one of the most common questions people ask when buying a two-way radio. This is because theVHF signal waves can travel a … One important characteristic of radio waves is the wavelength which is the distance between peaks on a wave: Wavelength is inversely proportional to the frequency. Most two-way radios used today have a frequency range somewhere within 130MHz to 900MHz (except CB & Ham radios). For analog signals in the United States, VHF signals on channels 2 to 6, the low-VHF range, were limited to 100 kW, high-VHF on channels 7 to 13 to 316 kW, and UHF to 5 MW, well over 10 times the power of the low-VHF transmitter power limit. Thus, two people carrying a handheld two-way radio, the maximum communication distance on flat ground with no obstructions is approximately 6 miles. Models that run on a higher wattage mean a walkie talkie’s batteries will not last very long. Default sorting is by 3rd order Dynamic Range (wide spaced). However, if a VHF wave and a UHF wave were transmitted over an area without barriers, the VHF wave would travel almost twice as far. Choose a whip antenna over a stubby antenna. But it doesn't end here, there are other considerations we need to explain. Both UHF and VHF have been used over the years for radio and television transmissions, with individual stations assigned specific broadcast ranges along the … So these low frequency signals can sometimes be received by radios below the horizon hundreds of miles away. However, these shorter signals are what allows these types of walkie talkies to excel at indoor use. So according to our rule-of-thumb, 2 people around 6 feet tall using a 5 watt handheld two-way radio, used on flat ground with no obstacles, will have a maximum range of approximately 6 miles. A stronger signal is capable of withstanding successive passes through obstacles, allowing it to travel farther. This range can be significantly boosted by a two-way repeater. Commercial antennas typically indicate the range at which they can capture a signal. Radio waves can not pass through metal. UHF vs. VHF Two-Way Radios VHF Radio (Very High Frequency) The main difference between these two options is in the range of frequencies that they use. Base station antennas are located on the roof of a building, and commercial broadcast antennas are usually located on mountain tops or very high towers. VHF like AM radio, gives better radio coverage over long distances due to VHF's longer wave length compared with UHF. As UHF solidifies its position as the global standard and preferred RFID technology across vertical markets, tag prices continue to drop. The key considerations that affect range are: signal type, antenna, obstructions, and signal strength (wattage). VHF, or “very high frequency” radio bands are between 30-300MHz. Range capability is the biggest factor for most buyers. Radio signals differ in how they react when they come into contact with materials and how the signal travels. The monthly service contract is obtained through the radio dealer. Even though VHF can pass through obstacles better and travel farther, that doesn’t mean it's always the better choice. Not all antennas on handheld radios are the same. UHF is approximately 1 ½ feet wide, while VHF wavelengths are around five. Scroll to the bottom for notes. such as gas and oil exploration, back-country search and rescue operations, or other other companies needing global communications in One of the easiest ways to extend your range is by focusing on your antenna. Low VHF signals (channels 2-6) and High VHF signals (channels 7-12) can bounce further than this, but most digital TV channels are on the UHF band (channels 13-26) - which is line-of-sight transmission. The VHF wavelength is almost 10 times longer and more malleable than that of the UHF frequency. Because of this, UHF does a better job of navigating through small spaces inside a building in order to reach its destination. No single factor is a silver-bullet to extend your communication range. ✔ 30-Day Return Policy Are you guaranteed to get 6 miles? Remember at the beginning we discussed the claims some radio brands make of "up to 36 miles" or more communication range? Consider that a handheld radio must be in range of a repeater to have its signal picked up and rebroadcasted. Satellite radios communicate through an array of satellites know as the Iridium satellite constellation. monthly fee per radio. Basically, the exact distance to the horizon will vary depending on the height of the antenna. The above graph shows the distance range between two mobile vehicles with basic vehicle whip antennas. Indoor coverage at VHF is approximately 270,000 sq ft and 300,000 sq ft at UHF. We are often asked "Is VHF or UHF better?" Now that you know more about the advantages and disadvantages of using VHF or UHF radio frequencies, you should have no trouble finding the right set that can meet your needs. These high frequencies are not able to travel beyond the horizon. If you’re looking for a set of walkie talkies that you’ll use mainly outdoors where you’ll have a clear line of sight, then a set that operates on VHF will be a great choice since the signal will be able to travel farther. UHF vs. VHF Two-Way Radios VHF Radio (Very High Frequency) The main difference between these two options is in the range of frequencies that they use. Metal will not be your friend when you’re using a walkie talkie since radio waves are not able to pass through it. But in terms of VHF vs UHF range, which type of radio frequency truly offers the type of range most buyers are looking for? This is the frequency band of 136-174mHz for two way radios. This makes VHF easier to broadcast over a long range. ✔ 1,000s of Products / Many brands VHF walkies operate on the frequencies between 136 and 174 MHz, they work over large distances with lower power consumption. UHF (ultra high frequency) signals operate at the higher end of the radio frequency spectrum. The Iridium satellite constellation is a system of 66 active Only a small portion of the total VHF range from 30 to 300 MHz is still used for broadcasts, although the exact range varies by country. However, the channel’s physical broadcast frequency is not always reflected by the channel number you see. Philadelphia UHF two-way radios operate from 403 to 430 MHz, 450 to 470MHz, and 450 to 527 MHz. The calculation of distances is based on the height of your antenna. These low frequency signals can be received by walkie talkies that are below the horizon, hundreds of miles away. ✔ Unbeatable Prices The ac current and … Expect Note: Range and coverage are estimates and are not guaranteed." Most of these radios act like normal two way radios, but they work differently. The above graph shows the distance range between two mobile vehicles with basic vehicle whip antennas. Another important factor in determining the distance a radio can communicate is it's signal strength. The max wattage for every type of two-way radio is set by the FCC. So if range is important to you, look for a radio with a whip antenna, or at the very least, one where you can remove the stubby antenna and replace it with a whip antenna. 30 to 400-MHz frequency range provides VHF and UHF in all radios It is being installed in all U.S. Navy tactical aircraft, as well as in over 180 platforms in the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs, U.S. Army and international services. The key words in the advertisement are \"up to\". These devices can communicate BUT, if you will be using your radio in or around buildings, in urban areas, or heavily wooded areas, then UHF is a better choice because it's signal will navigate around structures better, not being blocked as easily as VHF. A higher range of fifty-four megahertz will operate TV channels and certain types of wireless systems. If you’re looking for a … Remember, UHF signals are shorter than VHF, this is important when you're in or around buildings. Most two-way radios used today have a frequency range somewhere within 130MHz to 900MHz (except CB & Ham radios). Push-to-Talk Cellular uses the same cellular network that is used for cell phones. So if the receiving antenna were also 6 feet off the ground you should be able to communicate almost 6 miles without obstructions (2.99 miles + 2.99 miles). VHF radios offer a larger broadcast range, using radio waves from 30 MHz to 300 MHz. VHF & UHF frequency waves VHF walkie talkies. Very High Frequency (VHF) range is from 30 MHz to 300 MHz. Installed in vehicles, they run off the vehicle's battery. However, the example above assumes the receiving antenna is on the ground. Below, I’ll go over the most important factors you need to consider when you’re trying to decide between VHF and UHF, how each radio frequency works, and the pros and cons for each type. The differences between UHF and VHF Radios UHF. Antennas on cars are usually mounted on the roof or trunk and can extend several feet above the car. If you are at the edge of your communication range and your signal is weak, One of the easiest ways to increase your range is to increase your height. VHF (Very High Frequency) The frequency range of VHF radios is 136-174 MHz. Other factors that can impact range include: Not all radio signals are the same. A stronger signal is capable of withstanding successive passes through obstacles, allowing it to travel farther. VHF radios have been around for much longer and are quite cheaper compared to UHF. A VHF signal is able to penetrate objects easily, unlike UHF. The stronger a signal, the more it will be able to withstand the weakening when it passes through an object or an obstacle. UHF. receiving radios must have SSB These bands are frequently used by maritime, military, emergency, and air traffic control systems. Radio waves generally won't pass through it. Both UHF and VHF radios are prone to line of sight factors, but VHF a little more so. Their signal is much stronger than a handheld radio, therefore less affected by obstacles. If you have offices on the same computer network, It's because of the difference between how VHF vs UHF signals react around structures. Although VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency) are both used to describe frequencies, these are not related to the frequency of the voice that is being recorded. The waves make it through trees and rugged landscapes, but not always as well as UHF frequencies do. The range from 174 to 216 MHz is used for channels 7 through 13 … ✔ Excellent Service (BBB A+ Rating) What is VHF? So just having more watts without a better antenna is like having a large funnel with a small hole. Commercial radio stations typically broadcast at 50,000 or 100,000 watts. UHF signals don't travel quite as far outdoors as VHF signals, but they do a better job of penetrating wood, steel, and concrete, giving you better range and performance in … Frequencies immediately below VHF are denoted high frequency (HF), and the next higher frequencies are known as ultra high frequency (UHF).. Common uses for radio waves in the VHF … Keep in mind, just two or three feet can make a huge difference in terms of range. Feel free to search, filter or sort as you wish. It's because of the difference between how VHF vs UHF signals react around structures. What can you do to make it more like 6 miles than 4 miles? Also, IP radios can be easier to These VHF/UHF radios come in two varieties – one that look like toys, but are actually quite powerful. Signal strength is another important factor when it comes to determining the distance a walkie talkie is able to communicate. However, when communicating on SSB channels, both the sending and UHF is a better choice if you’re looking for a system for indoor use or in urban environments. Their signal is much stronger than a handheld radio, therefore less affected by obstacles. UHF is the better all around signal and is by far the most popular, so if you are in doubt, choose UHF. Most TV stations that were once on VHF are actually broadcasting on UHF now. Radio signals can be blocked by obstacles. So there is no clear choice for which is better, VHF or UHF. It is a bit misleading as they usually specify the distance for Ultra High Frequency (UHF). Very high frequency (VHF) signals are transmitted from 54 to 216 megahertz (MHz), while ultra high frequency (UHF), as the name implies, comes through much higher, 470 to 806 MHz. However, stubby antennas can reduce your range by up to 30% over a whip antenna. However, while VHF can easily pass through obstacles farther and easily, it doesn’t always make this type of signal the best choice. UHF channels are typically given higher channel numbers, like the US arrangement with VHF channels 2 to 13, and UHF channels numbered 14 to 83. you ask. Many FRS/GMRS radios on the market today have a stubby antenna because it's easier to put your radio in a backpack or pocket. 4. VHF’s wavelength is much larger (around 2m) than UHF, which means it can really struggle through solid objects. The FCC Additionally, MURS is limited to two watts as well. Even though VHF can pass through obstacles better and travel farther, that doesn’t mean it's always the better choice. The key factors affecting communication range are: antenna, obstructions, signal strength (wattage), and signal type. Default sorting is by 3rd order Dynamic Range (wide spaced). Handheld radios have 2 common types of antennas: stubby and whip. If you’re planning on using the walkie talkies inside, then you’ll want to go with UHF. First, not all radio signals are the same. Consider some of the new technologies listed in the next section. So with each successive object a signal passes through, it's range is shortened. "Why?" UHF, or ultra high frequency, relates to the band that covers the range between 300 megahertz or MHz and 3000MHz. 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VHF signals are often blocked by metal within the building. As you can see, UHF is better at navigating through the smaller spaces within a building to reach it's destination. These frequencies are referred to as travel frequencies since they can be used all over the country, without the fear of interference. VHF radios can also be purchased with a range of extra safety features including GPS and Digital Selective Calling (DSC) to further boost safety onboard your vessel. High band will offer the least amount of disturbances, but it will require an antenna that measures in at four inches. So to sum it up, it's a trade-off. ✔ We Ship Anywhere in the USA How can they make such a claim? UHF = "Ultra High Frequency." Aviation radios in the air have the most advantage, no obstacles and you're already very high! UHF vs VHF Microphones. The two frequency ranges (also called "frequency bands") used in most two-way radios are VHF (Very High Frequency), and UHF (Ultra High Frequency). ✔ Knowledgeable Support Purchasing a set of VHF or UHF walkie talkies can be a time-consuming process, considering all the confusing options available. The two most commonly used frequency ranges for two-way radios are VHF (Very High Frequency 130-174MHz), and UHF (Ultra High Frequency 400-520MHz). If you are using the radio in or around buildings, in urban areas, or heavily wooded areas, then UHF is a better choice because it's signal will navigate around obstacles better. So mount your antenna as high-up on your vehicle as possible. connection. In other words, the exact distance to the horizon varies depending on your antenna height. Their peaks and troughs propagate more closely together. Base station antennas are located on the roof of a building, and commercial broadcast antennas are usually located on mountain tops or very high towers. UHF and VHF are the two most commonly used frequency ranges for walkie talkies. Assume you are trying to communicate from one side of a commercial building to the other. Microphones are used to capture sound, whether its from the human voice, animals, or even from the environment, and either amplify it for rebroadcast or to record it for later use. you ask. When looking at your TV and the channels, the UHF channels will usually be numbered higher. The most common question people ask when they go to the market to buy a two-way radio intercom is how far they can communicate? However, their signal can still only travel to the horizon. To explain this let’s take an example. The waves make it through trees and rugged landscapes, but not as well as UHF frequencies do. In many cases, a radio’s max range is more theoretical than realistic since terrain and equipment type can greatly affect range. A typical VHF station operates at about 100,000 watts and has a coverage radius range of about 60 miles. For example, 54 to 72 MHz and 76 to 88 MHz are used in the United States for VHF channels 2 through 6, which is known as Band I internationally. This maximum range is more theoretical than realistic. Outdated browsers have security issues and don't follow new web standards. VHF / UHF Line of Sight Calculator. It’s also able to travel farther. These repeaters typically have about 50 watts of power, extending the reach to about 50 miles of coverage. Signal strength is mainly a result of a radios' power output, measured in watts. What are the benefits of HF radio vs VHF/UHF radios? Radios signals are sometimes blocked by solid objects. But since there isn't much you can do about mother nature, we will only give it a passing mention here. IP radios require a controller, which allows 12 watts of transmit power for SSB transmissions. Antenna Height                     1.82880 meters (6 feet off the ground)Horizon at Ground Level       x 3.569   kilometersAntenna Horizon                    4.83    kilometers (or 2.99 miles) away So how far can you really expect to talk? Frequencies that are below two megahertz are reflected off the atmosphere. With a direct ‘Line of Sight’ between, say, 2 radios on two mountain-tops either VHF or UHF signals will go a very long distance…. VHF- Very high frequency (from 30 MHz to 300 MHz) Frequencies immediately below VHF are denoted high frequency (HF), and the next higher frequencies are known as ultra high frequency (UHF). Models that operate on VHF radio frequencies are often more affordable compared to sets that use UHF, so if your budget is tight, then a set that operates via VHF will be your best choice. \"How far can this radio talk?\" is one of the most common questions people ask when buying a two-way radio. The calculation of distances is based on the height of your antenna. The higher your antenna, the farther the horizon. Please update your browser to fully experience this website. Not all antennas on handheld radios are the same. First, not all radio signals are the same. Most walkie talkies produced these days have a 130-900-megahertz frequency range. Most commercial UHF and VHF radios have two to three power modes. Not every antenna on a walkie talkie is the same. devices and other transceiver units. Antennas on boats are much the same. To sum it up, the more watts a radio has, the stronger the signal. Compare that to a handheld two-way radio which uses between 1/2 - 5 watts. The maximum wattage for each radio type is set by the FCC. Use a better antenna. But marine radios have a big advantage, there are no obstacles on the open water! These are averages. However, each time a radio signal passes through an object the signal strength is reduced. At normal elevations, however, the curvature of the earth limits effectiveness to pretty much 70 miles for UHF signals (sorry, flat-earthers). Perfect for those looking for the longest range possible and easy setup, such as companies operating vehicle fleets in large metropolitan areas. UHF television broadcasting is the use of ultra high frequency (UHF) radio for over-the-air transmission of television signals.UHF frequencies are used for both analog and digital television broadcasts. As an example, if you’re trying to communicate from one side of a building to the other, in between, there’s a thick metal wall with a small opening. Although microwaves are small, they are still bigger than the tiny holes in the metal mesh. Their peaks and troughs propagate more closely together. satellites (and 9 spares in space) used for worldwide voice and data communication from hand-held satellite If there’s a clear line-of-sight between the sender and the receiver with little obstruction, VHF walkie talkie will work best. Most companies already have IT departments, which will readily understand these products. There is a “but”, VHF is not very good for going through walls or structures. Even among the best two way radios, it all comes down to the way in which VHF radio signals work. LTE radios communicate through a proprietary cellular network (4G or LTE). The signal strength is basically a result of a walkie talkie’s power output, measured in watts. These radios are NOT Push-to-Talk Cellular or PoC. Feel free to search, filter or sort as you wish. This can even allow you to communicate across the It’s pretty common to come across advertisements for two-way radios that claim a model has a range of thirty miles or more. This means that the VHF wavelength is harder to disrupt and therefore able to move around solid objects like people, rocks, and canyons. Basically, when it comes to VHF vs UHF range, it’s often a trade-off. LTE uses a private cellular network.