Cleveland County Amateur Radio Service

05/31/2026

The Complete Guide to All U.S. Amateur Radio Frequencies: Why You Should Use Each Band
Amateur radio (ham radio) offers a vast spectrum of frequencies allocated by the FCC for licensed operators in the United States. These bands span from High Frequency (HF) for long-distance communication to Very High Frequency (VHF), Ultra High Frequency (UHF), and Super High Frequency (SHF) for local, experimental, and satellite work.
Each band has unique propagation characteristics, available modes, and power limits that make it valuable for different purposes. Understanding them helps operators choose the right frequency for DXing, local ragchewing, emergency communications, digital modes, or experimentation.
HF Bands: Long-Distance Communication (Skywave Propagation)
160 meters (1.800–2.000 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? This is the "Top Band." It excels at nighttime DX over thousands of miles, especially during winter months. Great for ragchewing and low-band DXing when higher bands are closed. Its long wavelength penetrates obstacles well for regional coverage.
80 meters (3.500–4.000 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? A workhorse band for domestic and regional contacts. Excellent for nighttime DX and regional traffic nets. Popular for voice (SSB) and CW during contests and emergencies.
60 meters (5.3305, 5.3465, 5.3570, 5.3715, 5.4035 MHz)
Modes: USB only
Power limit: 100 W ERP
Why use it? This channelized band is ideal for reliable medium-range communication, especially when 80m or 40m conditions aren't ideal. It's often used for emergency communications and inter-regional traffic because of its stable propagation.
40 meters (7.000–7.300 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? One of the most popular HF bands. It supports worldwide DX at night and excellent regional coverage during the day. Perfect for nets, contesting, and digital modes like FT8.
30 meters (10.100–10.150 MHz)
Modes: CW, RTTY/Data
Power limit: 200 W PEP
Why use it? A narrow but highly effective digital/CW band. It stays open for long distances almost 24 hours a day, making it fantastic for consistent DXing and data modes without much interference.
20 meters (14.000–14.350 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital, FM
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? The "King of DX." This band offers reliable long-distance communication during daylight hours and into the evening. It's the go-to band for international voice contacts, contests, and pile-ups.
17 meters (18.068–18.168 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? A low-interference band with excellent daytime DX propagation. Often less crowded than 20m or 15m, making it great for relaxed DXing and when solar conditions are moderate.
15 meters (21.000–21.450 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital, Phone/Image
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? Outstanding for long-distance daytime contacts, especially during solar peaks. It supports high-speed CW, SSB, and digital modes with strong signals over global distances.
12 meters (24.890–24.990 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? Similar to 10m but opens earlier and stays open longer. Excellent for DX when conditions are good, with lower noise levels than higher bands.
10 meters (28.000–29.700 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital, FM
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? A fun band that can go from dead to worldwide DX with solar activity. Supports FM repeaters, SSB, and digital modes. Great for local and distant contacts.
VHF Bands: Local & Regional Communication
6 meters (50.000–54.000 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital, FM
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? Known as the "Magic Band." It behaves like HF during band openings (sporadic-E), allowing contacts hundreds or thousands of miles away. Excellent for weak-signal work, meteor scatter, and local FM.
2 meters (144.000–148.000 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital, FM
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? The most popular VHF band. Ideal for local FM repeaters, simplex, APRS, satellites, and weak-signal SSB/CW. Critical for emergency communications and public service events.
1.25 meters (222.000–225.000 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital, FM
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? Offers more bandwidth than 2m with less crowding. Great for local voice, digital modes, and linking systems. Provides good building pe*******on for urban use.
UHF Bands: Local, Satellite & High-Speed
70 cm (420.000–450.000 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital, FM
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? Extremely popular for FM repeaters, DMR, System Fusion, satellites, and ATV (amateur television). Excellent for local communications and mesh networking.
33 cm (902.000–928.000 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital, FM
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? Good for high-speed data, ATV, and experimental modes. Less crowded and offers wide bandwidth for digital projects.
23 cm (1240.000–1300.000 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital, FM
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? Supports satellite work, high-speed digital, and microwave experimentation. Excellent signal quality for shorter distances with directional antennas.
SHF Bands: Experimental & Microwave
13 cm (2300.000–2310.000 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital, FM
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? Perfect for high-bandwidth digital modes, EME (moonbounce), and amateur television.
9 cm (3300.000–3500.000 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital, FM
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? Used for advanced digital communications, mesh networks, and experimental links.
5 cm (5650.000–5925.000 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital, FM, Handheld ATV.
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? Supports very high data rates and microwave experimentation.
3 cm (10000.000–10500.000 MHz)
Modes: CW, SSB, Digital, FM
Power limit: Up to 1500 W PEP
Why use it? The classic microwave band for EME, contesting, and high-frequency experimentation. Requires precise equipment but offers fascinating challenges.

What about you?
Do you use all of these amateur radio frequencies? Which bands are your favorites and what do you primarily use them for (DXing, local FM, digital modes, contesting, emergency comms, satellites, etc.)?
If you don’t use certain bands, why not? Is it due to equipment limitations, antenna restrictions, lack of activity, or something else?
Drop your answers in the comments—I’d love to hear about your on-air experiences!
73 and good DX!

05/06/2026

CCARS Fox Hunt Success at Kings Mountain Gateway Trail
Cleveland County Amateur Radio Services held another enjoyable fox hunt this past Saturday, drawing a strong group of local hams for a morning of radio direction finding and outdoor adventure.
Vince (AF4RF) did an excellent job hiding the fox at the Kings Mountain Gateway Trail. Tucked into a dense bamboo forest, the transmitter proved to be a fun challenge. Vince’s son joined him for the setup, adding a nice family touch to the morning.
The first hunters on site arrived at 10:30 AM — Cly (N4CLY) and Johanna (KK4TYM) — followed closely by Dale (KK4SMV), Jim (KE4ZUN), and Tom (KB0PD). Conditions were ideal: a mildly cool morning with comfortable temperatures perfect for both driving around hunting signals and the final short hike into the bamboo.
Participants enjoyed the mix of vehicle-based direction finding and the on-foot trek through the unique bamboo forest to reach the hidden transmitter. Everyone had a great time sharpening their skills while spending time outdoors with fellow amateur radio enthusiasts.
Thanks to Vince (AF4RF) for a well-executed hide and to all who came out to participate. These events continue to be a highlight of the CCARS calendar — combining technical challenge, friendly competition, and good fellowship.
Stay tuned for the next CCARS fox hunt! 73.

Cly (N4CLY

P.S. Sorry it’s late but I have been so busy, I’m doing this post at 2:18 AM and have to leave ay 6:00 AM for a day of doctor visits in Charlotte NC.

If any hunters have photo’s, please post them.

03/12/2026

Ham Radio Spring Operations
Spring has arrived—bringing warmer temperatures, blooming landscapes, longer daylight hours, and that irresistible urge to get outside. For ham radio operators, this season is one of the most exciting times of the year to hit the airwaves. The combination of improving HF propagation, perfect weather for portable setups, and a lineup of engaging events makes spring an ideal period for both casual operating and serious fun.
Whether you're a seasoned extra-class contester or a newly licensed technician eager to use your handheld, here are some of the greatest things to do with ham radio this spring.
1. Portable Operations: Parks on the Air (POTA) Activations
One of the biggest booms in ham radio in recent years has been Parks on the Air. Spring is prime time for POTA because the weather is mild, bugs aren't overwhelming yet, and parks are green and inviting.
Grab your QRP rig, a portable antenna (like an end-fed half-wave or a simple dipole), a battery or small solar setup, and head to a nearby state park, national forest, or wildlife area. Set up under a picnic shelter or on a trail, and activate the park by making contacts from it. Hunters (those trying to contact you) love logging new parks, and you'll rack up fun QSOs quickly.
POTA has official activity weekends throughout the year, including the Spring Support Your Parks event on the third full weekend of April (April 18-19, 2026, based on recent patterns). These weekends see massive activity as operators flock to parks nationwide.
Pro tip: Check pota.app for maps of nearby activatable locations—you'll find plenty of options close to home.
2. Summits on the Air (SOTA) – Hiking with a Radio
If you enjoy the outdoors even more actively, Summits on the Air is calling your name. Spring brings clear trails, wildflowers, and excellent VHF/UHF opportunities from higher elevations, plus improving HF as the solar cycle progresses.
Pack a lightweight radio, a roll-up antenna, and hike to a qualifying summit. Make a minimum number of contacts to "activate" it, earning points toward awards. Many SOTA summits are accessible with short hikes, making it family-friendly or a great solo adventure.
The combination of exercise, scenery, and radio makes spring SOTA activations incredibly rewarding.
3. Spring Contests and QSO Parties
Spring features several enjoyable contests that suit portable and home station operators alike.

State QSO Parties ramp up in spring—perfect for regional fun and working toward Worked All States awards.
Events like the QRP ARCI Spring QSO Party emphasize low-power operating, aligning perfectly with portable setups.
Various VHF/UHF contests appear as propagation opens up on higher bands.

These shorter, focused events let you dip in for an afternoon or go all-out. They're great practice and often feature relaxed exchanges.
Keep an eye on contestcalendar.com or ARRL.org for the latest schedules.
4. Improved Propagation and Band Exploration
Spring often brings a noticeable uptick in HF propagation, especially as we move through the solar cycle. The ionosphere stabilizes after winter, and sporadic-E openings on 6 meters and 10 meters start appearing more frequently—great for exciting DX or stateside contacts on higher bands.
Early mornings and evenings can yield fantastic long-path openings. Try digital modes like FT8 if voice propagation is spotty, or chase those elusive springtime band openings on 10m and 6m.
5. Prep for ARRL Field Day
While ARRL Field Day itself falls at the end of June (June 27-28, 2026), spring is the perfect time to prepare.
Test your portable gear, experiment with antennas, practice quick setups, and shake down your emergency power systems (solar, batteries, generators). Many clubs hold pre-Field Day outings or mini-exercises in local parks during spring—treat them as dress rehearsals.
Field Day is ham radio's biggest public demonstration and emergency communications drill. Getting ready now means you'll be confident and have more fun when the big weekend arrives.
6. Hamfests, Swap Meets, and Club Outings
Spring is hamfest season in many regions. Flea markets offer great deals on portable gear, antennas, and accessories perfect for outdoor operations. Attend one near you to pick up that lightweight rig or new battery you've been eyeing.
Many clubs organize spring picnics, fox hunts (radio direction finding games), or group POTA activations—excellent social ways to enjoy the hobby.
Final Thoughts
Spring transforms ham radio from a cozy indoor pursuit into an outdoor adventure. Whether you're activating a park, hiking a summit, chasing contest QSOs, or simply enjoying better band conditions from your backyard, the season offers endless opportunities to make contacts, learn new skills, and connect with the global ham community.
So dust off that go-kit, charge the batteries, and get outside. The bands are waiting, the weather is cooperating, and spring is the perfect time to operate with enthusiasm.
73, and see you on the air this spring!

02/13/2026

2026 WCARS Hamfest information!

01/23/2026

Make sure you are ready for the storm.

Ice storms can be particularly devastating for communications infrastructure. Heavy ice accumulation often brings down power lines, cell towers, internet cables, and even amateur radio repeaters if they're not on backup power. For amateur (ham) radio operators, these events represent both a major challenge and a critical opportunity to serve our communities through reliable, independent communication when everything else fails.
As an amateur operator preparing for a large ice storm (think ½ inch+ ice accumulation leading to multi-day power outages and widespread tree/branch damage), focus on self-sufficiency, redundancy, and community integration. Here's a practical guide tailored for hams—from beginners to experienced operators.
1. Power: Your #1 Priority (It Will Almost Certainly Fail)
Most ice storm outages last 3–10+ days in severe cases. Plan accordingly.

Batteries first: Charge every rechargeable battery you own 24–48 hours before the storm (LiFePO4, Li-ion, AA/AAA NiMH). Have at least 2–3× the capacity you think you'll need.
Deep-cycle / LiFePO4 bank: A 100–200 Ah LiFePO4 battery (or several) can run a 100W HF rig or multiple VHF/UHF radios for days. Pair with a good charger/inverter.
Solar backup: Even in winter, a 100–200W portable solar panel + MPPT controller can keep batteries topped up on partly sunny days. Mount or position south-facing if possible.
Generator (quiet inverter type): As a last resort—fuel (gas/propane) stored safely outside, with extension cords pre-routed. Run periodically to top batteries, not continuously.
Small power bricks: USB-C PD batteries (100W+) can run many modern rigs (IC-705, Xiegu, etc.) for extended periods.

Pro tip: Label everything with last charge date. Test your full backup power chain under load before the storm.
2. Radios & Antennas: Build Redundancy
Ice = high probability of repeater failure and damaged antennas.

Handhelds (HTs): Minimum two (one primary, one backup). Baofeng UV-5R/UV-21 series, Yaesu FT-65/70, etc. Keep them fully charged + spare batteries.
Mobile/base rig for VHF/UHF: 50W+ output (e.g., Yaesu FT-2980R, TYT TH-9800). Essential for simplex and reaching distant repeaters that might stay up.
HF rig: Critical for long-range health & welfare traffic when local/regional comms collapse. IC-7300, FT-891, or portable like IC-705 + battery. Keep a wire antenna ready.
Antennas:
VHF/UHF: At least one backup (J-pole, roll-up J-pole, mag-mount on vehicle, or temporary mast inside near window).
HF: Multi-band end-fed half-wave (EFHW), random wire, or dipole you can deploy from ground level or low tree if ice takes out your main antenna.

Coax & connectors: Extra low-loss coax (LMR-400 or better), barrel connectors, adapters. Ice + wind = broken feedlines.

3. Go-Kit / Portable Station (Ready in

08/25/2025

Shelby Hamfest week

Come spend Friday Aug 29 and Saturday Aug 30 for your chance to win awesome prizes listed below. The prizes listed in this post you must be present to win and have until 5pm Saturday August 30 to claim. Be on the look out for prize announcements live on facebook. You do not have to be present for the Pre-Reg Prize, Friday main prize or the Saturday grand prize.

05/26/2025

Congratulations to N4BXB who found the fox in first place this past Saturday.

05/08/2025

Folks, thanks for sending in your hail reports! It's going to be a busy night ahead. Keep this for further reference when reporting the hail you see to us. Thanks and stay safe out there!

04/06/2025

*UPDATE*

[1:45PM 4/6] The NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards transmitter broadcasting from:

Spencer Mountain and serving the piedmont of North Carolina, has
been returned to service. We apologize for any inconvenience this
may have caused our listeners.

03/13/2025