Simplex, Repeaters, and the Rest of the Band: How Hams Use the 2-Meter Band—and Beyond
By Josh Dale & ChatGPT — 5/1/2025
The 2-meter band (144–148 MHz) is the workhorse of amateur radio. Whether you're using a basic handheld transceiver or a high-powered base station, chances are your first QSO happened on 2 meters. It's where most new hams start, and where many experienced operators stay active. But what actually happens on this band? What's the difference between simplex and repeater operation? And what lies beyond 2 meters?
This article explores how hams use the 2-meter band and where to go next in your amateur radio journey.
Simplex vs. Repeaters: What’s the Difference?
Simplex means direct, radio-to-radio communication without any relay. It's how most emergency contacts begin, and how many operators stay connected locally. The most important simplex frequency on 2 meters is 146.520 MHz, the national FM simplex calling frequency.
Repeaters are radio relays, typically mounted on hills or towers. They receive on one frequency and transmit on another, extending your reach far beyond what simplex allows. A repeater might allow a 5-watt HT to reach 30+ miles.
Most repeaters on 2m use a -600 kHz offset, meaning you transmit 600 kHz below the receive frequency. Many also use PL tones (CTCSS) to reduce interference.
Common 2-Meter Band Uses
146.520 MHz: National simplex calling freq. Say "CQ" and see who's out there.
146.940, 146.790, 147.000 MHz: Common repeater outputs.
145.390 MHz: Skywarn/ARES activity in some regions.
146.580 MHz: Alternate simplex for ragchews or SOTA.
144.200 MHz: SSB calling freq for weak signal work (needs an SSB-capable rig).
144.390 MHz: APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) for digital beacons and GPS tracking.
Beyond 2 Meters: What Else Is Out There?
70 cm Band (UHF: 420–450 MHz): Great for local repeaters and simplex work. Common freq: 446.000 MHz (national UHF simplex).
6 Meters (50–54 MHz): Known as "The Magic Band." Can behave like HF or VHF. Seasonal openings make it exciting.
1.25 Meters (222 MHz): Less crowded. Great performance. Not all radios support it.
HF Bands (1.8–30 MHz): For long-distance global communication. Requires General or Extra license.
Band Plans and Operating Etiquette
Every band has a band plan: a community-agreed map of what modes and activities go where. For 2 meters:
144.000–144.100: CW (Morse code)
144.200: SSB Calling
144.390: APRS
146.400–146.600: FM simplex
146.610–147.390: Repeater outputs
Etiquette matters: use 146.520 to make contact, then move to another freq (e.g., 146.550) to chat. Always identify with your call sign.
What Should a New Ham Do Next?
Scan the band: Listen to 146.520 and local repeaters. Learn who's active.
Check your region's band plan: The ARRL or your local club can help.
Try a net: Many repeaters host weekly nets. Join in and say hello.
Explore digital and data modes: APRS, Winlink, and packet radio open new doors.
Upgrade your license: Unlock the HF bands with a General or Extra class ticket.
Whether you're on a mountaintop calling CQ on 146.520 or checking into your county's ARES net via repeater, the 2-meter band remains the core of local ham radio. But it’s only the beginning. Explore the other bands, experiment with new modes, and you'll find that the amateur spectrum is far bigger than you imagined.
Stay curious. Stay connected. And keep tuning that dial.