We understand that the frequencies used in two-way radios can sometimes be perplexing. The purpose of this article is to break down the differences so you can ensure you are using the right devices and frequencies based on your needs.

EMCI Wireless is a trusted provider of wireless communication solutions that strongly focuses on ensuring seamless mission-critical communications for government and enterprise sectors. Our valued partnership with Motorola Solutions enables us to offer the latest in two-way radio technology.

What’s the Frequency, Kenneth?

We couldn’t help ourselves referencing the infamous song by R.E.M., but let’s dive into the world of frequency bands and make it crystal clear. In telecommunications, a frequency band, sometimes called just a “band,” is a designated range of frequencies within the electromagnetic spectrum allocated for specific applications.

This electromagnetic spectrum spans from very low frequencies (VLF) to tremendously high frequencies (THF), and it’s divided into various frequency bands, each with a defined upper and lower frequency limit.

Now, let’s break it down further. A frequency band is essentially the set of radio frequencies used to transmit signals across a telecom network. Each band is defined by its lower and upper boundaries. Here’s the key thing to remember: the frequency you choose can have a significant impact on how your two-way radio communications perform.

• Lower Frequency: If you go for a lower frequency, like 150MHz in the VHF radio band, you opt for longer-distance communication. These frequencies travel farther, making them suitable for outdoor applications that cover extensive areas.
• Higher Frequency: Conversely, higher frequencies, such as 450MHz in the UHF radio band, excel at in-building penetration. They’re your go-to choice for communication inside structures like offices, factories, or warehouses.

Choosing the right frequency band is a crucial decision, and it can make or break the effectiveness of your communication. In the next section, we explain why this selection matters for specific applications.

Very High Frequency (VHF)

VHF, or Very High Frequency, operates in the frequency range of 30MHz to 300MHz and offers some distinct advantages for two-way radio communication. One of its most prominent features is its exceptional coverage. VHF signals are known for traveling long distances, making them an excellent choice for outdoor applications that require wide-ranging coverage.

Moreover, VHF signals are particularly effective at penetrating through obstructions like trees and buildings, making them ideal for use in rural or wooded areas. This means that in scenarios where you need to communicate across vast expanses of farmland or deep into forests, VHF is the best option.

Several industries and organizations have found VHF to be a reliable companion for their communication needs:

• Agriculture: Farmers and agricultural workers rely on VHF radios to stay connected across vast fields and remote areas.
• Transportation: Whether managing logistics or coordinating routes, the transportation industry benefits from VHF’s extensive coverage.
• Road Construction: VHF radios keep construction crews connected on job sites where other forms of communication might falter.
• Remote Fire & EMS: First responders in remote and challenging environments depend on VHF to ensure seamless communication during emergencies.
• Rural Police Departments: Law enforcement in rural areas trust VHF for reliable and widespread communication.
• Country Utilities: Utility workers in rural regions use VHF radios for maintenance and operations.
• School Bus Transportation: VHF radios can be essential for safe and efficient school bus transportation.
• Oil & Mining Exploration: In oil, mining, and gas, VHF ensures communication across expansive and often isolated sites.

The most common VHF frequency range for Land-Mobile Radio (LMR) systems is referred to as “VHF High Band” and spans 138-174 MHz. The frequency split between the transmit (TX) and receive (RX) frequencies can vary wildly as there is no standard offset for VHF.

Ultra High Frequency (UHF)

When it comes to communication in the UHF (Ultra High Frequency) band, we’re talking about a range of frequencies that span from 380-512MHz, with a notable exception being the 420-450MHz band, which is primarily reserved for Amateur Radio use and generally excluded from indoor RF coverage enhancement.

The 450-470 MHz band is allocated for Land-Mobile Radio use and is the most common commercially available spectrum in UHF, serving a broad spectrum of essential services such as Police, Fire, Government, and various business and 2-way radio services.

470-512 MHz is commonly referred to as T-Band, which is occasionally allocated for Land-Mobile Radio use in major urbanized areas.

Additionally, the frequency split between the transmit (TX) and receive (RX) frequencies in UHF is typically a 5 MHz offset, with the repeater receiving on the higher frequency and transmitting on the lower frequency. However, for the T-Band spectrum, the frequency split is typically a 3 MHz offset.

What sets UHF apart is its knack for thriving indoors. UHF frequencies are known for their remarkable performance inside buildings, making them an excellent choice for businesses that operate primarily within structures like warehouses and office complexes.

However, UHF is not limited to indoor environments; it’s also incredibly versatile, making it a great choice for businesses that need seamless communication both indoors and outdoors.

Several industries and organizations heavily rely on UHF for their communication needs:

• Education: From K-12 schools to colleges and universities, UHF radios keep educational institutions connected.
• Manufacturing: Factories and manufacturing facilities often use UHF for communication between workers and departments.
• In-Building Construction: The construction industry benefits from UHF radios on job sites where indoor communication is essential.
• Urban Transportation Businesses: Businesses like taxi services operating in urban areas choose UHF for its reliability in crowded city environments.
• Hospitals & Extended Care Facilities: Healthcare institutions use UHF radios to ensure fast and efficient communication within their facilities.
• Hotels & Resorts: UHF radios help hospitality businesses maintain smooth operations and guest safety.
• Retail: Retailers rely on UHF radios for in-store communication among staff members.
• Property Management: Property management companies use UHF radios to coordinate maintenance and security operations.
• Security: Security teams across various industries depend on UHF radios to keep their operations secure and efficient.

700/800 MHz Bands

Public safety radio systems, used by first responders like police, firefighters, and emergency medical services, operate in various portions of the 800 MHz band. This band encompasses a spectrum from 806-824 MHz paired with a spectrum at 851-869 MHz, offering reliable communication for critical services.

Typically, the frequency split in Land-Mobile Radio 800 MHz frequencies is separated by a 45 MHz offset, with the repeater receiving on the lower frequency and transmitting on the higher frequency.

The 700 MHz Band spans 698-806 MHz and was made available due to the Digital Television Transition. Its strategic placement, just above the remaining TV broadcast channels, grants it excellent propagation capabilities. This means that 700 MHz signals can easily penetrate buildings and cover larger geographic areas with fewer infrastructure requirements than higher-frequency bands.

Typically, the frequency split in Land-Mobile Radio 700 MHz frequencies is separated by a 30 MHz offset, with the repeater transmitting on the lower frequency and receiving on the higher frequency.

In 2008, the FCC auctioned licenses for commercial use in the 700 MHz Band, paving the way for mobile broadband services for smartphones, tablets, and other devices.

These bands have advanced technology and devices, enabling seamless communication for public safety and commercial applications.

900 MHz Band

The 900 MHz band, encompassing the frequency range of 896-901/935-940 MHz, provides a critical communication channel, offering 10 MHz of spectrum. This valuable spectrum finds extensive use among utilities, refiners, railroads, and other essential infrastructure operators in the U.S., primarily for two-way voice communications. The 900 MHz band is highly regarded for its reliability and effectiveness in ensuring uninterrupted communication for various industries.

Typically, the frequency split in Land-Mobile Radio 900 MHz frequencies is separated by a 39 MHz offset, with the repeater receiving on the lower frequency and transmitting on the higher frequency.

The advantages of utilizing the 900 MHz band for specific applications are noteworthy. Its efficiency and dedicated use for two-way voice communication make it a preferred choice for businesses that require secure and instant communication.

Industries and organizations that commonly rely on the 900 MHz band for their communication needs span various sectors, and one specific device tailored for this frequency range is the Motorola R7 900 MHz Digital Portable Radio.

The Motorola R7 isn’t just a radio; it’s a productivity tool. With features like text messaging, it facilitates discreet communication when voice isn’t appropriate, ensuring seamless information sharing without disrupting workflow.

Whether you’re in construction, hospitality, manufacturing, or any industry requiring instant, reliable communication, the MOTOTRBO R7 steps up to the challenge, breaking down communication barriers and keeping teams efficiently connected. Welcome to a new era of business communication with the Motorola R7.

Who Uses These Frequency Bands

Various industries and organizations depend on specific frequency bands to meet communication needs.

• VHF (Very High Frequency): Widely used by agriculture, transportation, road construction, remote fire & EMS, rural police departments, country utilities, school bus transportation, and oil & mining exploration. For example, rural police departments rely on VHF to cover extensive areas effectively.
• UHF (Ultra High Frequency): Embraced by education, manufacturing, in-building construction, urban transportation services like taxis, hospitals, hotels, retail, property management, and security teams. For instance, in-building construction teams benefit from UHF’s indoor performance.
• 7/800 MHz Bands: Preferred by public safety agencies and some commercial businesses. Police, firefighters, and emergency services use it for seamless, critical communication.
• 900 MHz Band: Utilities, refiners, railroads, and other critical infrastructure operators rely on the 900 MHz band for two-way voice communication, ensuring efficient and reliable connectivity.

How EMCI Wireless Can Help

EMCI Wireless brings a wealth of expertise to assist businesses and organizations in making the right frequency band choices. We understand that effective communication is the backbone of your operations, and we are here to guide you through the process.

Our support doesn’t end at selecting the right band. EMCI Wireless is laser-focused on system design, integration, and ongoing maintenance, ensuring your radio network is operational and optimized for your specific needs.

Trust EMCI Wireless to keep you connected and informed. Contact us today or request a quote, and let’s ensure your wireless communication solutions meet your requirements effectively.