2-meter Band - Repeaters and The Use of FM On The 2-meter Band

Repeaters and The Use of FM On The 2-meter Band

Much of 2-meter FM operation uses a radio repeater, a radio receiver and transmitter that instantly retransmits a received signal over a longer distance and usually on the same antenna at the same time. Most repeaters are normally located in high locations such as skyscrapers or mountain tops overlooking great expanses of territory. On VHF frequencies such as 2-meters, height greatly influences how far one can talk. Typical and reliable repeater range is about 20–30 miles. Some repeaters in unusually high locations can be reliable out to 50–75 miles. Reliable range is very dependent on the height of the repeater antenna and also on the height and/or location of the handheld unit or mobile unit attempting to gain access to the repeater. Line of sight would be the ultimate in reliability. The typical two meter FM operator has about 50 watts of transmit power, and has a simple vertical antenna mounted on their rooftop. This type of station setup normally provides good signals into his or her favorite local repeater.

However, even without repeaters available, the 2-meter band provides reliable crosstown communications throughout smaller towns, making it ideal for emergency communications. Antennas for repeater work are almost always vertically polarized since 2-meter antennas on cars are usually vertically polarized allowing for maximum signal coupling which equates to stronger signals in both directions. Simple radios for FM repeater operation have become plentiful and inexpensive in recent years.