ARIZONA VHF BAND PLAN

Arizona adopted the ARRL VHF band plan with a few minor changes and additions. This listing is provided to assist in identifying specific sub band usage. When considering frequencies for use in conjunction with a proposed repeater, be certain that both the input and output fall within sub bands authorized for repeater use, and do not extend past the sub band edges. FCC regulation 97.205(b) defines frequencies which are currently available for repeater use. Please consult your local ARCA Frequency Coordinator for help finding suitable repeater frequencies.

For example, a 2-meter repeater on 145.50MHz would be out-of-band because the deviation will put the signal outside of the authorized band segment.

Packet radio operations under automatic control should be guided by Section 97.109(d) of the FCC rules. Prior to regular packet radio use of any VHF/UHF "channel" is is advisable to check with the local ARCA frequency coordinator.

* Arizona Repeater Owners Policy on Backyard Repeaters Updated to Include Portable Operation

The coordinators have received a number of requests from clubs for "portable" coordinations to support public service and disaster communications. By definition, a coordination is to a fixed location, so coordination of a portable repeater is not possible. There are already several repeaters operating on the "backyard" pairs that get used away from their coordinated locations (portable). These additions to the existing description of "Backyard" operations will clarify such portable operation and provide a way for the operators to "coordinate" those operations to minimize interference.

ADDENDUM 11/01/2016: The backyard pairs are for Analog operation only due to the fact that analog and digital modes do not play well on shared frequencies.

Additions to the original 1985 policy are highlighted

The pairs 145.17/144.57, 145.19/144.59, 145.21/144.61 and 145.23/144.63 were designated as "Backyard" pairs by the repeater owners in Arizona in 1985. Portable operation was added in 2002. These pairs are intended for shared, local and portable operations. Some overlap is expected. Use of PL is mandatory. Operators agree to accept co-channel occupation and act to prevent inadvertent access by co-channel users. They are responsible for "PL" tone frequency coordination, but need to advise the coordinator of their choice. They agree not to operate in "beacon" mode, or intertie to other amateur frequencies that might monopolize the "channel". ERP is limited to a max of 100w with an antenna not to exceed 100 ft AGL and AAT, except that portable operation is limited to 10w transmitter power opt.  To minimize conflicts and interference, the repeater owner must check the "Portable Ops" page at http://www.azfreqcoord.org before scheduling portable operations, and notify the coordinator as far in advance as possible so his/her operations can be added to the schedule. The schedule will include the date/time of portable operation, contact numbers and Email addresses so the owners can communicate any problems or concerns with each other.

Policy voted on at Ft Tuthill Repeater Owners Meeting
7/27/02. Passed with 100% "yes" vote.

** Use of Simplex Frequencies

The most popular frequencies in the simplex subbands fall on even 20kHz frequencies. This minimizes interference from adjacent operations. It is good operating practice and strongly recommended to utilize these defacto "channels", but operation anywhere in the simplex subband is legal, as long as you do not cause interference to an ongoing conversation on a nearby frequency.  These frequencies, like most Amateur frequencies are to be utilized on a non interfering basis to on-going conversations. Amateur frequencies are always "first come, first served" with the exception of Coordinated Repeaters in the Repeater Subbands. Also, remember that no one "owns" a frequency. When you complete the NCVEC Form 605 (or any FCC Amateur Form, you agree to the following statement: "I waive any claim to the use of any particular frequency regardless of prior use by license or otherwise;"  This is detailed in 97.101.

Coordination Requests Near Az-Ca Border

Requests for repeater coordination at locations where RF will spill into neighboring states may take a little longer because we have to get approval from that state or states. In the event of operations that will impact California, the frequencies must satisfy both Arizona and California bandplans. The following is a list of frequencies that meet both criteria.

Please contact your local ARCA Frequency Coordinator for additional information on frequency spacing and use. See Coordinator listing on this site.

2m_bandplan.htm  01/23/08