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HomeTopicsShortwave
Shortwave RadioShortwave radio, which uses frequencies between 3 MHz and 30MHz, got its name because these frequencies have shorter wavelengths than the long radio waves more commonly used in earlier days. Shortwave radio is also sometimes referred to as high frequency or HF radio. This is because the shorter the length of a radio wave, the higher its frequency is. Some major manufacturers of shortwave radio equipment include:
What Makes Shortwave UniqueAll radio receivers tune into signals being broadcast over specific frequencies. What separates shortwave radio from other types of radio broadcasts is its specific frequency range. Shortwave frequency begins just above the medium frequency range of your AM car radio and ends above 30MHz. Shortwave signals are affected by:
Beyond shortwave (HF) exists even shorter wave bands of Very High Frequency (VHF) and Ultra High Frequency (UHF). These upper bands do not have a long range but offer great signal quality. VHF and UHF bands are used by FM radio stations, police departments and highway patrol.
Communication across the GlobeShortwave radio is often used for long-distance broadcasts heard around the world. This frequency range is well suited for distance because:
Shortwave ListeningShortwave radio is commonly used for entertainment, information, communication and rescue applications. Broadcasts are sent from around the world, and most of them are in English. Anyone can listen to shortwave radio with a shortwave receiver and shortwave antenna. You don't need a special license to listen to shortwave radio.
Some interesting types of shortwave broadcasts you might hear include:
Emergency Shortwave UseAmateur or ham radio operators operate in the shortwave radio frequency bands. While ham radio is considered a hobby, ham operators are often the first to send the world word of natural disasters and medical emergencies. In fact, they are still called to service during times of disaster to communicate critical, life-saving information. Broadcasting over shortwave frequencies requires both broadcasting equipment and a government license.
Ham and CB RadioMany people are confused about the difference between Ham and CB radio operators. Both use shortwave frequencies. Ham or amateur operators have been around since the beginning of radio history. They must take exams to qualify for a license with the FCC. Some of the types of communications ham operators are allowed to use include:
CB or Citizens Band was established in 1945 to provide a way for businesses and individuals to communicate over shortwave radio. To use CB radio, a user must register with the FCC and be issued a call sign. No exam is required. CB operators are allowed to broadcast in the band of 460 MHz to 470MHz, as well as the band of 27 MHZ only.
A CB broadcast signal can be no stronger than 5 watts, and there are restrictions on both antenna height and communication distance. CB operators are only allowed to use:
History of Shortwave RadioAmateur (ham) radio operators were the first to communicate long-distance using shortwave frequencies. In 1921, they performed the first successful transatlantic test. The test actually involved the medium wave band, the shortest wave band available to amateurs at that time.
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