Welcome to our FAQ webpage for the 20m band in ham radio. Here, you’ll find answers to common questions about propagation, modes, antennas, and more. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced ham, these FAQs will help improve your 20m band experience.
What is the 20m band?
The 20m band is a radio frequency range allocated by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for amateur radio use. It spans from 14.000 MHz to 14.350 MHz.
What modes are commonly used on the 20m band?
The 20m band is popular for voice (SSB), digital modes (PSK31, RTTY, FT8, etc.), and Morse code (CW).
What is the band plan for the 20m band?
The band plan for the 20m band varies by region and country, but generally, the lower portion of the band (14.000-14.125 MHz) is used for CW and digital modes, while the upper portion (14.125-14.350 MHz) is used for voice (SSB).
What is the propagation like on the 20m band?
The 20m band offers good propagation for medium to long-range communications, especially during daylight hours. It is also known for being active during times of high solar activity.
What types of antennas are recommended for the 20m band?
A resonant dipole or vertical antenna is a good choice for the 20m band. Other popular antenna types include the inverted-V, Yagi, and hex beam.
What are some common DX (long-distance) destinations on the 20m band?
The 20m band is popular for DXing to Europe, South America, Africa, and Australia. It is also frequently used for contests, such as the CQ World Wide DX Contest.
What is the power limit for the 20m band?
The power limit for the 20m band varies depending on the country and the license class of the operator. In the United States, for example, the maximum power output for Technician class licensees on the 20m band is 200 watts.
What is the best time of day to operate on the 20m band?
The 20m band can be active throughout the day and into the night, but the best times for long-range communication are often during the daylight hours, when the ionosphere is most ionized.
What is the best time of year to operate on the 20m band?
The 20m band can be active year-round, but its propagation characteristics can change depending on the season. Generally, the band is more active during the spring and fall months, when ionospheric conditions are favorable for long-range communication.
What are some common Q signals used on the 20m band?
Some common Q signals used on the 20m band include QSO (to indicate a conversation), QRZ (to ask who is calling), QRM (to indicate interference), and QSL (to confirm receipt of a signal).
What are some popular 20m band nets?
There are many popular nets on the 20m band, including the Maritime Mobile Service Net (MMSN), the 14.313 Rag Chewers Club, and the 14.345 Russian CW Net. These nets provide a forum for hams to connect with each other and exchange information.
What are some popular digital modes used on the 20m band?
Some popular digital modes used on the 20m band include PSK31, RTTY, FT8, and JT65. These modes offer efficient and reliable communication, especially for weak-signal work.
What are some common 20m band propagation tools?
Hams often use a variety of propagation tools to help predict the conditions on the 20m band, including online propagation prediction websites, ionospheric sounding tools like the WSPR beacon network, and real-time propagation maps like DXmaps and PSKreporter.
What are some common DXCC entities on the 20m band?
The 20m band offers hams the opportunity to work a variety of DXCC entities, including countries like Brazil, Russia, Japan, and Australia. Some rare entities that are occasionally heard on the band include places like Pitcairn Island and Bouvet Island.
What are some tips for making contacts on the 20m band?
To make successful contacts on the 20m band, hams should be sure to have a resonant antenna that is properly tuned for the band, use a low noise floor, and be courteous and patient when trying to make a contact. It can also be helpful to listen to the band and get a sense of its current activity before making a call.