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Ultra high frequency (UHF) is the radio-frequency band above 300 megahertz (MHz) through 3,000 MHz (3 gigahertz, GHz), inclusive. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) calls its metric subdivision “Decimetric waves.” UHF sits above very high frequency (VHF) and below super high frequency (SHF).

What frequencies count as UHF?

The ITU’s 2024 edition of the Radio Regulations identifies UHF as band number 9. Its lower boundary is exclusive and its upper boundary inclusive: a frequency must be greater than 300 MHz and no higher than 3,000 MHz. In other words, exactly 300 MHz is outside UHF, while exactly 3,000 MHz is inside it. The ITU’s metric subdivision name for the band is “Decimetric waves.” See the ITU Radio Regulations, 2024 edition.

Band Frequency range Boundary note
VHF 30–300 MHz Immediately below UHF
UHF Above 300 MHz through 3,000 MHz (3 GHz) Lower limit exclusive; upper limit inclusive
SHF 3–30 GHz Immediately above UHF

These neighboring ranges and the UHF boundary convention are given in the ITU’s 2024 frequency-band nomenclature.

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What is UHF used for?

UHF is a broad frequency band, not a single communications service. An ITU spectrum guide lists broadcasting, mobile communications and satellite communications among its common uses. Those examples describe activity across the band; they do not mean every UHF frequency is assigned to every service. Read the ITU guide to radio-spectrum assignment and use.

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Specific frequency assignments and the rules for transmitting depend on the relevant national regulations and the particular frequency. The band definition alone does not authorize a person or device to transmit.

What does UHF mean on a two-way radio?

A handheld two-way radio may use frequencies within UHF, but “UHF” by itself does not tell you which frequencies a particular radio supports. It also does not establish that two radios will communicate with each other or that their use is permitted where you are.

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  • Check the device’s stated frequency range.
  • Confirm that its frequencies and intended use are permitted under local rules, including any licensing or authorization requirements.
  • For use with existing equipment, verify that the supported frequencies are compatible.

The ITU’s 2024 Radio Regulations incorporate decisions from the 2023 World Radiocommunication Conference. The ITU says most provisions took effect on 1 January 2025, while specified provisions apply on other dates; this regulatory context does not replace checking current national rules. See the ITU regulatory publications catalogue.

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