HF Radio

From CruisersWiki

Revision as of 11:48, 6 March 2016

The ICOM706 MKII G

HF, or high frequency, radios provide communication beyond the range of the traditional VHF radio that many mariners rely on in coastal waters. VHF radios are typically limited to near 30 miles of range while HF radios can cover thousands of miles. There are generally two ways to take advantage of the HF spectrum while at sea: Marine Radio and Amateur Radio. Both have benefits and drawbacks. It should be noted that while we identify these radios as HF they typically include MF or medium frequency coverage as well. MF frequencies are especially important in the marine bands as they are the primary means of communicating with shore emergency services, such as the Coast Guard, when operating within 250 miles of the shore, in accordance with GMDSS.

Marine HF radio is also called SSB in some sailing circles. SSB, however, identifies the modulation of the transmission and not the actual frequencies used. This would be akin to calling your VHF radio your FM radio.

Because HF communications are a bit less straight forward than VHF communications links below are provided to help break down the topic a bit.

Radio Nets

See World Maritime Mobile Nets (Marine Radio and Cruiser's Nets times and frequencies)

Basic Radio Procedures

See Radio Calling Procedure. This applies to routine and distress calls for both HF Radio and VHF Radio, any differences are noted.

Equipment Check

• Is the correct frequency/channel selected?
• Is the volume adjusted correctly?
• Is the squelch adjusted correctly?
• Is the RF gain set to maximum sensitivity?
• Power supply - is the battery fully charged?
• Antenna - are the leads and whip intact, not corroded, have proper earthing and connections in good order?
• Listen before transmitting to ensure you have a clear channel

See Also

• Marine MF/HF Radio (SSB)
• Ham Radio
• Installation Aboard (Radio and antenna)
• Care and Maintenance of Batteries
• Email at Sea
• Licencing
• Weatherfax

References

• John C. Payne, Marine Electrical & Electronics Bible, Sheridan House, ISBN 1574090607

Forum Discussions

List links to discussion threads on partnering forums. (see link for requirements)

• HF Radio for cruisers on Cruiser Log.
• Power and Electronics on Cruiser Log.
• SSB topics on Cruisers Forum.

External Links

• High frequency on wikipedia
• HF Radio at sea by Richard Mogford - A first class article on setting up HF on a cruising yacht.
• Wi-Fi On a Boat Excellent article on the subject.
• MF/HF Frequencies (Yachtcom)
• More cruiser's nets
• Rod Heikell's radio page
• GMDSS on wikipedia
• DSC on wikipedia