NET UHF Frequencies

HAM UHF Simplex Frequencies for Intra-NET Use

With the increased number of hams in NET, the Radio Training Liaisons (RTLs) have received a number of questions on using amateur VHF or UHF frequencies for intra-­team comm to complement the FRS/GMRS channels. Teams are concerned about potential unwanted interference on FRS/GMRS due to the large number of radios in the community. Basically the NET AROs are all asking, “Which frequencies should we use?” We did an analysis of the available simplex frequencies using the Regional Frequency Template 2017 and the ORRC (Oregon Region Relay Council) coordination band plans.

For VHF there are 18 coordinated simplex frequencies. Currently all are assigned (including the two NET TAC frequencies) although 3 or 4 are assigned to counties somewhat removed from Portland.  Typically, there are two or three agencies subscribing to each channel.

For UHF there are 78 coordinated simplex frequencies. Only 5 are assigned (3 of them to Hillsboro CERT).

The RTLs have discussed the topic and concluded that UHF is the best choice. Below is the PBEM-approved template which assigns 6 simplex UHF frequencies to NET use. Basically a NET team uses the same FRS/GMRS and UHF “channels.” ­ For example, a team using FRS/GMRS channel 4 would use UHF frequency 431.400 MHz, a team using FRS/GMRS channel 7 would use 431.700 MHz, etc.

When the Regional Frequency Template is next updated, the UHF portion will include these frequencies assigned to “Portland NET.” The NET Guidelines Section 900 (NET Communications) will also be updated with the chart below.