Amateur (Ham) Radio — UK

In the United Kingdom, amateur radio is regulated by Ofcom. You need a personal licence (not the same as licence-exempt CB or PMR446). Most people train and sit exams with clubs supported by the RSGB (Radio Society of Great Britain). In return you get access to amateur bands, higher power than CB/PMR, repeaters, satellites and many modes — including ordinary FM PTT on VHF/UHF.

Amateur radio in Britain goes back to the early wireless era. The RSGB has represented hobbyists for over a century. Today’s three-tier Ofcom structure (Foundation, Intermediate, Full) replaced older class systems and is designed so newcomers can get on air relatively quickly while progressing toward full HF privileges and higher power.

• Foundation — Entry level after a short course/exam. Limited power (generally up to 25 W PEP on most bands) and a defined set of bands/modes. Ideal for local VHF/UHF FM and supervised progression.
• Intermediate — More bands and power (generally up to 100 W PEP on most bands). Bridges Foundation and Full.
• Full — Full amateur privileges within the UK schedule, including higher power (up to 1,000 W PEP on primary allocations, with lower limits on other bands) and the widest band access.

Exact frequency tables, power limits and conditions are in Ofcom’s amateur licence documents — always check the current schedule before transmitting.

• Local VHF/UHF FM — Club nets, chat, and handheld use on 2 m (144 MHz) and 70 cm (430 MHz)
• Repeaters & gateways — Wider-area coverage; some link into internet voice networks under licence terms
• HF DX — Intermediate/Full operators work further afield on HF bands
• Emergency / Raynet-style support — Trained amateurs supporting events and resilience (within agreed schemes)
• Experimentation — Digital modes, satellites, ATV, contesting, construction

These are widely used calling / activity references — not a substitute for the full Ofcom band plan:

• 2 m FM calling — 145.500 MHz
• 70 cm FM calling — 433.500 MHz
• Repeater inputs/outputs follow published UK repeater lists (keep 145.500 / 433.500 clear for calling where that is local practice)

Use the virtual radio to step through sample UK-centric channels. Real operation requires your own licence and adherence to the band plan.

1. Find a local amateur radio club (many listed via the RSGB)
2. Complete Foundation training and exam
3. Apply for your Ofcom licence / call sign
4. Progress to Intermediate and Full when ready

Ofcom · RSGB

• UK CB / PMR446 — Licence-exempt if equipment and use comply; low power; limited channels
• Amateur — Personal Ofcom licence; far more spectrum and power; call sign identification; no broadcasting to the public