Two-way radios are used in a variety of ways and different industries and there are many different models and kinds of two-way radios but the two major formats that you would have to choose from is VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency). How would you know which one to use for your operations? Well that depends on what you need. There isn’t any format that is inherently better than the other both have their uses and in this article, we will be detailing where each format excels.
VHF radio signals occupy the lower radio frequencies with a frequency range of 30 MHz to 300 MHz. VHF’s longer wavelength allows it to travel much further than UHF. This means that VHF is used mainly for outdoor usage that is why it is mostly used in aviation and marine communication. VHF is best used in open environment like open fields. VHF signals don’t penetrate metal and solid structures that well so it may not be the best choice if you are looking to use it primarily indoors.
UHF radio signals, on the other hand, operate in the higher radio frequencies with a frequency range of 300 MHz to 1 GHz. UHF can penetrate metal and solid structures better than VHF which makes it the better choice when being used in an urban location with many buildings and structures. This also makes them the prime choice when it comes to indoor communication. UHF is used mainly in warehouses, retail stores, and inside buildings.
However, for Filipino radio operators, one thing to consider when purchasing the UHF frequency is its availability from the NTC (National Telecommunications Commission), or lack thereof. The NTC currently only issues frequencies in the 350MHz band. Devices in the 400-above band are no longer supported.
In summary, VHF is best used for outdoors with minimal structures and obstructions because of its wider coverage and UHF is better when it comes to urban areas like cities with several buildings because it penetrates better.
If you still have questions and still don’t know which one you need, you can contact us and consult with us here to find the two-way radio that would suit your needs.
