60-meter band

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This article is about the amateur radio band. For the athletics event, see 60 metres.
File:Amateur-radio-regions-with-60m-allocation.svg
Regions with allocations in the 60m amateur radio band. Blue regions have official allocations. Green regions issue experimental permits, licenses or NoVs (notice of variation). Red regions have emergency-only allocations. Cyan regions have granted permission to only a few specific operations.

The 60 meter band or 5 MHz band is a relatively new amateur radio allocation, first introduced in 2002, that was originally only available in a few countries, such as the United States, United Kingdom, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Ireland and Iceland. Over a number of years however, an increasing proportion of countries' telecommunications administrations - together with their government and military users - have permitted Amateur Radio operation in the 5 MHz area on a short or longer term basis, ranging from discrete channels to a frequency band allocation.

At the closing meeting of the 2015 ITU World Radiocommunications Conference (WRC 15) on 27 November 2015, amongst the Final Acts signed into the International Radio Regulations was one approving A Worldwide Frequency Allocation of 5351.5–5366.5 kHz to the Amateur Service on a secondary basis.[1][2] The ITU's allocation limits amateur stations to 15 Watts effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP); however, some locations will be permitted up to 25 W EIRP.[1][2] The allocation will not come into effect until January 1, 2017.[2] Amateur stations will not be able to use this allocation until their national administration implements it.

Prior to the World Radiocommunication Conference 2015 (WRC-15), all 5 MHz Amateur allocations made by individual administrations were in accordance with Article 4.4 of the ITU Radio Regulations, which requires non-interference with other radio services. Where two-way amateur radio communication is authorized on 60 m, it has generally been within the frequency range 5250–5450 kHz, but the whole of this range is not necessarily available and allocations vary significantly from country-to-country. This has been particularly true in latter years since the award at WRC-12 of the range 5250–5275 kHz to the Radiolocation Service, thus effectively reducing the former frequency range down to 5275–5450 kHz.

In a number of countries the allocation is channelized at present, whereas others have block or band allocations. Voice operation is generally in upper sideband (USB) mode to facilitate inter-communication by non-amateur service users if necessary. In the United States and its Dependencies, channelized USB is mandatory. Where channelization is used, the USB suppressed carrier frequency (a.k.a. 'dial' frequency) is normally 1.5 kHz below the quoted channel frequency. For example, 5403.5 kHz is the 'dial' frequency for the channel centered on 5405 kHz. The "center" of the channel is based on the assumption that the bandwidth of SSB transmissions are 3 kHz, at most. Transmitters that are capable of wider SSB bandwidths should be adjusted for 3 kHz bandwidth or less so their emissions stay within the allocated channel.

Amateur equipment made in Japan and surrounding countries often did not support the 60 Meter allocation, since it is not currently available in those countries. However it is usually possible to modify equipment to work correctly on these frequencies within the terms of the individual's licensing conditions. More recently, commercial amateur radio equipment manufactured in Asia has begun to include provision for 60m/5 MHz operation.

ITU headquarters, Geneva

International regulatory status

The amateur radio service is unusual in the fact that it is regulated by international treaty. Worldwide amateur allocations are determined by the International Telecommunication Union[3] (ITU), which allocates global radio spectrum and satellite orbits,[4] develops the technical standards that ensure networks and technologies seamlessly interconnect and strive to improve access to ICTs to underserved communities worldwide. This is done through successive World Radiocommunication Conferences (WRCs) which take place approximately every 3 – 5 years, when telecommunications administrations and organisations from all around the globe meet to make decisions on these elements.

At the conclusion of the ITU 2012 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-12) on Friday 17 February 2012, Resolution 649 [COM6/12] (WRC12) was ratified as being placed on the Agenda for the following WRC in 2015 (WRC-15). This resolution invited WRC-15 to consider "The possibility of making an allocation of an appropriate amount of spectrum, not necessarily contiguous, to the amateur service on a secondary basis within the band 5250-5450 kHz". The full official ITU text can be found at: http://www.itu.int/dms_pub/itu-r/oth/0c/0a/R0C0A00000A0018PDFE.pdf

Following the decision at WRC-12 to implement a Radiolocation allocation from 5250 to 5275 kHz, the candidate band for an amateur allocation at WRC-15 subsequently became truncated to the 5275 to 5450 kHz sector.

On September 11, 2014, the National Telecommunications Agency of Brazil (Anatel) announced its intention to propose an amateur service allocation from 5275 to 5450 kHz in the 60m band at the next meeting of CITEL (Inter-American Telecommunication Commission).[5] At the CITEL Regional Conference held in Mérida City, Mexico in October 2014, the conference recognised an IAP ( Inter-American Proposal ) for a Secondary Amateur Allocation from 5275 to 5450 kHz. This was proposed by Brazil, together with Argentina, Uruguay, El Salvador, Dominican Republic and Nicaragua, making up the required six administrations. Following the proposal a footnote stressed that "National administrations can adopt additional constrains to provide further compatibility with existed services".

File:Screenshot ITU Provisional Acts WRC 15 - Item 1.4 - 5 MHz.jpg
Amateur 5 MHz Extract from new WRC15 Radio Regulations

The final meeting of the CEPT (Conférence Européenne des Postes et Télécommunications) Conference Preparatory Group took place in Bergen, Norway during the week 14–18 September 2015 at which was adopted the final European Common Proposal for WRC-15 Agenda Item 1.4 - the adoption of a European Common Proposal for an allocation of 100 kHz between 5350 – 5450 kHz for the Amateur Service.[6]

The ITU 2015 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-15) took place in Geneva, Switzerland from 2 until 27 November 2015, where Agenda Item 1.4 went through a significant amount of discussion and debate until a consensus was eventually reached, whereby at the Concluding Meeting of WRC-15 on 27 November 2015 a Final Act was signed, approving a secondary amateur allocation of 5351.5–5366.5 kHz.[1][2] Most stations are limited to 15 Watts EIRP, with the exception of Mexico, who are allowed 20W EIRP and Central & South America, plus most of the Caribbean areas who are permitted 25W EIRP.[1][2] The allocation will go into effect from January 1, 2017.

Propagation characteristics

File:Ionogramme.png
Typical ionogram indicating foF2 of approximately 5.4 MHz.

Lying approximately halfway between 80m (3.5 MHz) and 40m (7 MHz), the 60 meter (5 MHz) band forms a communication bridge when propagation effects make use of 80 or 40m impossible for local-to-medium distance communications – often needed in emergency communication scenarios where there is no existing normal communications infrastructure or it is devastated. Less affected by D-Layer absorption than 80m, the 60 meter (5 MHz) band is an ideal candidate for Near Vertical Incidence Skywave (NVIS), the most commonly used technique capable of providing seamless local-to-medium distance HF communications. Information about the Critical Frequency (foF2) of the Ionosphere at any one time is highly important for setting up and maintaining reliable NVIS radio links. This information can be found online from Ionograms produced by local ionosondes at this site[7]

Propagation beacons

A number of amateur radio propagation beacons are active on 5 MHz, some of which produce a sequence of varying power levels in various transmission formats. A number of these transmit 24/7 (but not all) and some personal beacons are activated as required.

In the United Kingdom ( ITU Region 1 ) currently three beacons transmit sequentially on the hour and each subsequent 15 minutes primarily using CW, the 5290 kHz frequency being utilized for the UK's beacon project. Call signs are, in transmission order - GB3RAL (IO91in) + 0 minutes, GB3WES (IO84qn) + 1 minute and GB3ORK (IO89ja) + 2 minutes from approximately southern, central and northern locations in the UK. Further details of the British beacon network can be found on the 5 MHz beacon page of the Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB) website plus G4JNT's article on the design and building of the 5 MHz GB3RAL, GB3WES & GB3ORK beacons[8] In Autumn 2015, GB3RAL went off-air pending a possible site change owing to local difficulties. Discussions are taking place during 2016 as to the future of the UK 5 MHz beacon system as the 5 MHz beacon licences expire in 2017.

On the 5290 kHz channel (5289.5 kHz / USB) also is the Danish ( ITU Region 1 ) personal beacon OV1BCN [9] (JO55si), operated by OZ1FJB, particularly for NVIS observations. From Spring 2011, it has been in operation h24 and is sequenced to transmit 2 minutes after the UK beacons, (hr+ 04/19/34/49 min.), transmitting a USB-announcement, followed by CW + MT63 identifications. (Info: Lars, OZ1FJB)

The South African Amateur Radio League - SARL - ( ITU Region 1 ) announced its intention to have a 5 MHz Beacon operational. In response to this, the South African club KARTS (Kempton Park Amateur Radio and Technical Society) callsign ZS6KTS (KG43cw) commissioned a WSPR beacon, initially on 5250 kHz. At a meeting during Summer 2014 with their regulator, ICASA (The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa), SARL reached an agreement to exchange their channel at 5250 kHz for the more common beacon channel of 5290 kHz. ZS6KTS and the other stations in the South African 5 MHz WSPR Cluster - currently ZS6SRL (KG33wv) and ZS1TB (JF96hb) - changed frequency on 4 October 2014. The beacon is transmitting 5 Watts and repeats every 6-12 mins. This is to assist SARL with their propagation studies [10] and is in response to requests from other clubs and international researchers. Their other channel at 5260 kHz remains in use as normal for general contacts.

Although the 60m band has not been released for amateur radio in Switzerland ( ITU Region 1 ), the Sursee Amateur Radio Club has obtained the necessary official authorizations from their Federal Office of Communications for a Swiss 5 MHz Experimental Beacon project. Using the callsign HB9AW, the beacon became operational on 5291.0 kHz at 0000hrs on 1 June 2014. The transmission commences with the call sign HB9AW in CW (100HA1B), followed by five 2 seconds-long dashes. The dashes are each accurately attenuated by 10 dB in the EIRP power sequence 10W / 5 W / 1Watt / 100 mW concluding with 10 mW and currently repeats every 5 minutes, commencing on the hour. The beacon transmits from Sursee (Locator: JN43ba) using a half-wave dipole, configured for high-angle radiation as an NVIS ‘fountain’ type antenna at a height above ground of 0.12 of a wavelength. A reflector is placed beneath the antenna. The aim of the system is to explore the propagation conditions on 5 MHz in the hills and valleys of Switzerland in relation to its possible suitability as an Emergency Communications band. An on-line form on the Sursee Amateur Radio Club’s website accepts reception reports.

MRASZ, the Hungarian national amateur radio society ( ITU Region 1 ), has established a continuous CW beacon on 5352.5 kHz. Located at Ráckeve (JN97le), it runs 50W and operates under the callsign HG7BHB.

The Radio Amateur Association of Greece - RAAG - ( ITU Region 1 ) had set up a beacon on 5398.5 kHz under the Society's club callsign, SZ1SV (KM17ux). It transmitted in carrier, CW and PSK31 formats in graded power levels between 3 and 30 Watts on a timed basis at 00, 15, 30 and 45 minutes past the hour. Time of operation was mostly between 1900 - 0600 UTC, however some days it was off due to other HF activities at the test site, or of course when the station was engaged in a 5 MHz contact with other stations outside of Greece . Further details are available from the RAAG website. As of May 2015, their temporary 5 MHz licence has expired and therefore the beacon is off air. Further news is awaited (Source: SV1XV [11] ).

In addition, individual WSPR beacon experiments using powers as low as 1 watt in the UK have led to reception reports from the USA and Middle East. South African tests using 5-20 watts have led to reception reports from USA, Europe, Australia and South America. Further research is likely in this area..

The German ( ITU Region 1 ) Amateur Radio Club (DARC) operates a propagation information beacon, under the non-amateur call sign DRA5 (JO44vq), on 5195 kHz, which transmits in CW (Morse code) plus various digital modulation systems. It is co-sited with the DKØWCY 30 and 80m beacons. Owing to considerations of the rising cost of electrical power, the operational schedule of DRA5 has changed and it no longer transmits over the full 24-hour period. It is currently operational from 0400 - 2200 UTC during the Summertime period and 0500 - 2300 UTC during the Wintertime period. These times of year correspond to those of the seasonal clock changes in Germany..(Source: Beacon keeper DK4VW e-mail 18th July 2013)

As well as amateur radio beacons in the 5 MHz sector, some other non-amateur stations are used informally as propagation indicators. These include:

  • Standard Frequency & Time Stations
    • RWM (Moscow) on 4996 kHz
    • BPM (Xi'an), YVTO (Caracas), HLA (Daejeon, S. Korea), WWV (Colorado) & WWVH (Hawaii) on 5000 kHz
  • Shortwave Broadcasters
    • WWCR (Nashville, Tennessee) on 5070 kHz and 4840 kHz (AM)
  • VOLMET - Aviation Meteorological Information Broadcasts (all USB):
    • "Military 1 Information VOLMET" on 5450 kHz (previously called 'R.A.F. VOLMET')
    • "South America VOLMET" on 5451 & 5475 kHz
    • "Africa VOLMET" on 5499 kHz
    • "Shannon VOLMET" (Republic of Ireland) on 5505 kHz

United Kingdom

In the UK ( ITU Region 1 ), the 60 metre segment tends to be known by its frequency equivalent - 'the 5 MHz band' - and is available to all UK Full Licensees. It is the subject of active research by radio amateurs due to its propagation properties. This research commenced in August 2002 [12] with the allocation of five 3 kHz-wide channels, which by mid-2006 had been increased to seven.

In December 2012, UK regulator, Ofcom, announced permission for 11 new frequency blocks, following representations from the RSGB and subsequent Ofcom discussions with the 'Primary User' of 5 MHz in the UK, the British Ministry of Defence (MoD). Although the MoD was unable to permit a continuous band, this allocation of seven channels was substantially increased to eleven frequency 'blocks' (or 'bandlets'), integrating the existing channels. These became active on 1 January 2013.

Following an Ofcom consultation document on a review of the UK Amateur Licence during 2014, in 2015 Ofcom issued a new UK Amateur Licence which incorporated the UK 5 MHz allocation into the main licence schedule for all UK Full Licensees (Individual, Club, Reciprocal). This came into force on 7 April 2015. The previous 5 MHz 'Notice-of-Variation' (NoV) is now no longer required.

There are some additional restrictions which still apply -

  • Maximum Antenna Height is 20m a.g.l. (above ground level)
  • Neither mobile nor maritime mobile operation permitted
  • Power is limited to 100 watts PEP (not to exceed 200W EIRP)
  • Maximum Permitted Transmission Bandwidth is 6 kHz (double sideband)

All Modes allowed. This provision is on a Secondary, non-interference (NIB) basis. Instructions on amateur radio 60m operations in the UK are provided in the RSGB '5 MHz' web pages and at the Ofcom Amateur Radio Section.

The UK 5 MHz Frequency Blocks are:-

From To Width
5258.5 kHz 5264.0 kHz 5.5 kHz
5276.0 kHz 5284.0 kHz 8 kHz
5288.5 kHz 5292.0 kHz 3.5 kHz
5298.0 kHz 5307.0 kHz 9 kHz
5313.0 kHz 5323.0 kHz 10 kHz
5333.0 kHz 5338.0 kHz 5 kHz
5354.0 kHz 5358.0 kHz 4 kHz
5362.0 kHz 5374.5 kHz 12.5 kHz
5378.0 kHz 5382.0 kHz 4 kHz
5395.0 kHz 5401.5 kHz 6.5 kHz
5403.5 kHz 5406.5 kHz 3 kHz

The former seven 3 kHz-wide 'channels' used for 5 MHz operation in the UK up to 31 December 2012 were: 5258.5, 5278.5, 5288.5, 5366.5, 5371.5, 5398.5 and 5403.5 kHz (all USB Dial Frequencies).

The Summits on the Air (SOTA) program uses 5 MHz for a number of activations, with considerable activity from some operators.[13]

As well as Analogue Voice and CW, the band in the UK is also used for Digital Communications in modes such as PSK31, Olivia, MFSK, MT63, SSTV and Hellschreiber - success being shown with most modes, despite the problems that can result from ionospheric distortion, particularly to the phase of the signal.

In the UK, 5 MHz is also used for one of the weekly RSGB (Radio Society of Great Britain) news bulletin broadcasts under the special transmit-only callsign GB2RS. The transmission takes place at 1600 hrs local time on 5398.5 kHz. The intention is to prove that 5 MHz provides a reliable vehicle for a national news broadcast which is able to cover the whole of the UK. After the news a net is carried out with signal reports exchanged. This data and that from other 5 MHz contacts is used for analysis, preferably utilising the UK 5 MHz Logging program,[14] written by Alan, G0TLK.[15][16]

This band is unique in the United Kingdom insofar as UK 5 MHz operators may also communicate under controlled operating conditions with UK Military stations or UK Military Cadet Youth Organizations with links to the MoD using these frequencies.[17] They will use MoD allocated call signs, which differ significantly from those issued by Ofcom to the Amateur Radio Service in the UK.

The HF Team of RAYNET (Radio Amateurs' Emergency Network - the UK's Amateur Radio Emergency Communications body) includes 5 MHz in its regular 7 Day cycle of HF Nets (See RAYNET HF Team reference in 'External Links' section)

The 5 MHz band has proved to support reliable intra-UK communication using low power and NVIS (Near Vertical Incidence Skywave) antennas under daylight conditions,[18] but can be sometimes affected by solar disturbances. The nature of the band, together with relatively light levels of activity and interference experienced, no doubt enhance this aspect. Several technical papers [19] have also been published on NVIS at 5 MHz, utilising information gleaned from monitoring of the UK 5 MHz beacon chain.

United States

The 60 meter band first became available to General, Advanced or Amateur Extra class US radio amateurs in 2003.[20] The five channels currently used for 60m in the USA ( ITU Region 2 ) are:

Center 'Dial' Frequency (USB) 'Unofficial' Channel Designation
5332.0 kHz 5330.5 kHz Channel 1
5348.0 kHz 5346.5 kHz Channel 2
5358.5 kHz 5357.0 kHz Channel 3
5373.0 kHz 5371.5 kHz Channel 4
5405.0 kHz 5403.5 kHz Channel 5
60 m 5330 - 5406
 United States 5330.5 5346.5 5357.0 5371.5 5403.5
General, Advanced, Extra
Note: US licensees operating on 60m with emissions of upper sideband voice, suppressed carrier, 2.8 kHz bandwidth (2K80J3E), should use the dial frequencies indicated on this chart

Modes permitted:

which includes any digital mode with a bandwidth of 2.8 kHz or less whose technical characteristics have been documented publicly, per Part 97.309(4) of the FCC Rules. Such modes would include PACTOR I, II or III, 300-baud packet, MFSK, MT63, Contestia, Olivia, DominoEX and others

Maximum Power: 100W PEP ERP referenced to a half-wave dipole. Secondary status.

At no time may any transmission exceed the channel bandwidth of 2.8 kHz and the center of all CW emissions must coincide with the authorized center frequencies. Automatic operation is not permitted and the control operator of a station transmitting data emissions must exercise care to limit the length of transmission so as to avoid causing harmful interference to United States Government stations.

On 5 March 2012, following earlier proposals by the ARRL, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) brought into effect new rules detailing several changes in US 60 meter amateur radio operations. These included:[21]

  • 5358.5 kHz replacing 5368 kHz (heavily utilized by one of the primary users).
  • Additional modes as detailed above, supplementing existing USB voice provision.
  • A power increase - from 50W to 100W.

As a part of preparation of justification for a 60-meter band, the ARRL organized a group of twelve amateur radio operators, most of whom had experience in trying to communicate with stations in the Caribbean to obtain eye-witness reports of hurricanes in that region. The group was assigned by FCC WA2Xxx call signs and allowed to transmit on the 60 meter band as experimental stations. That group's report of conditions on that band became central to ARRL's request for the band for amateur use. That initial effort stressed continuous communication with the Caribbean hurricane region and timely reports to the Miami National Hurricane Center to supplement other observations and to take emergency messages. ARRL requested an article for its QST magazine from Charles Harpole, K4VUD and WA2Xxx, about the band's use, but that article was only placed briefly on the ARRL Internet site. ARRL confirmed that their plan was to move away from hurricane and emergency uses of the band toward general amateur uses. Harpole, as K4VUD near Orlando, Florida, made the first transatlantic two-way ham radio communication with a ham station near London; notice of that achievement was also suppressed by ARRL fearing FCC concern that the band become too rapidly a normal use amateur band[citation needed] .

Countries with band allocations

Andorra ( ITU Region 1 ): The Andorran national amateur radio society, URA - Unio de Radioaficionats Andorrans, announced in July 2014 that they had received official permission to operate between 5275 – 5450 kHz on a secondary basis for short and medium distance propagation studies. Maximum power allowed is 100W PEP with a bandwidth not exceeding 3 kHz utilizing CW and USB. The permission is temporary until WRC-15. License annulled from December, 2015 (pending further decision). Info de C31CT.[22]

Bangladesh ( ITU Region 3 ): From 2005, the band 5250 – 5310 kHz was allocated nationally to the amateur service on a secondary basis for propagation experiments. Stations of the amateur service in Bangladesh shall not cause harmful interference to any station operating in accordance with the ITU Radio Regulations, which in this case will be of a governmental or commercial nature. All modes are permitted ( source: Bangladesh Telecomms Administration NFAP )

Barbados ( ITU Region 2 ): The regulator permits operation from 5250 – 5400 kHz on USB Voice, maximum power 100W PEP ( Source:- The Telecoms Unit of the Barbados Government - Spectrum Management Handbook[23] )

Belgium ( ITU Region 1 ): At the beginning of March 2016, the Belgian telecoms regulator, IBPT/BIPT, issued a decision permitting access to the new WRC15 60m allocation for all Belgian Class A amateur licensees (also known as the HAREC licence). The allocation is from 5351.5 to 5366.5 kHz on a Secondary basis with a maximum power of 15W e.i.r.p. All modes are permitted.[24]

Bulgaria ( ITU Region 1 ): Following a proposal submitted in November 2012 by the Bulgarian national amateur radio society, BFRA, to the Bulgarian national spectrum ( NRFSC ) and Regulation Commission ( CRC ), Bulgarian radio amateurs will be permitted access to a number of new bands including a 60m band allocation of 5250 – 5450 kHz on a Secondary basis. This has been confirmed and they are permitted all modes at 100 Watts ( Source: BFRA, LZ1US )

Croatia ( ITU Region 1 ): In July 2010 Amateurs were given special license access to 5 MHz on an individual, experimental basis. It permits operation from 5260 – 5410 kHz on all modes. Licences are valid for 1 year. ( Source:- 9A5K, OK1RP, Croatian Post & Electronic Communications Agency [25] )

Cuba ( ITU Region 2 ): Faithful to their promise of a new universal 60m amateur band at WRC12, the Ministry of Communications of Cuba approved access to this new band for Cuban amateurs, reports CO7WT and CO2KK. The law, approved on January 20, 2014, allows the use of the 5 MHz spectrum from 5418 to 5430 kHz, a continuous 12 kHz-wide segment. The allocation is as a secondary user as per ITU RR 4.4 regulations, with the emphasis on its use in nets during emergencies - as Cuba is in the path of the Caribbean Hurricanes every year, this band provides a stable communication path for the island. The new law allows for everyday use, but once an Official Emergency is declared by the Cuban State then purely emergency traffic is permitted. Modes allowed are SSB, CW and Digital, the latter being limited to PSK31 and PSK63. All three Cuban licence categories can access the band based on Maximum Powers of 10W for Novices and 50W for all Other Licensees with a relaxation of this power limitation of up to 100W for all users in emergency conditions as needed for a reliable link establishment. ACS, the Cuban regulator, states that the allocation is for emergencies & experimentation. Access to this band is by individual operators requesting and obtaining approval from the authority which results in the modification of the amateur's licence.

Denmark, including The Faroe Islands ( ITU Region 1 ): Stations have as from 1 Jun 2012 been granted the spectrum 5250 – 5450 kHz, all-mode with secondary status by their regulator, the Enterprise Agency ( ERST ). 1 kW erp is permitted for Category A licensees, and 100W for Category B. Previously in 2011, Danish amateur stations had to apply for a special experimental research license for a year at a time. Prior to that they were allocated channels. ( Source: the Danish ERST [26] & EDR [27] websites )

Greenland ( ITU Region 2 ): It has recently been reported that the Greenland 5 MHz Amateur Allocation has now been expanded to a full allocation of 5250 – 5450 kHz from the original allocation of seven 5 MHz channels (these were 5258.5, 5278.5, 5288.5, 5366.5, 5371.5, 5398.5 and 5403.5 kHz). The Telecommunications Authority has permitted USB, CW and digital modes as previously. ( Source: OX3XR )

Grenada ( ITU Region 2 ): The communications regulator - the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission[28] ( NTRC ) permits 60m operation from 5250 – 5450 kHz. Their General licensees are permitted up to 500W p.e.p. and Advanced licensees 1 kW p.e.p. Modes include USB and CW. ( Source: Grenada NTRC )

Hungary ( ITU Region 1 ): The Hungarian telecoms regulator, NMHH ( The National Media & Infocommunications Authority – Hungary ) following representations from the Hungarian national amateur radio society, MRASZ, has been issuing temporary permits for operation in the band 5350 – 5450 kHz on a Secondary basis for propagation research. The permits are valid for three months and can be re-applied for at the conclusion of the period. All modes are permitted with a maximum power of 100W (measured at the transceiver output terminal) currently in a nominal maximum bandwidth of 3 kHz. Hungarian amateurs apply for the permit via MRASZ, who collate the details then forward them to NMHH who issue the permit. Activity days are being organised and there is a CW beacon on 5352.5 kHz with the callsign HG7BHB. It is hoped that the situation may become more permanent later in the year. ( Source: HA7PL, MRASZ Secretary)

Iceland ( ITU Region 1 ): Amateur stations were given from December 13, 2010, permission for continued access to 5 MHz and were granted 150 kHz in the 5260 – 5410 kHz band, as a replacement for the eight fixed channels previously permitted. Maximum power allowed on 5 MHz is 100W ( 20 dBW ).

Netherlands ( ITU Region 1 ): Amateurs with a full licence ('F' registration) have been allowed to use the band 5350 – 5450 kHz since December 3, 2015 on a Secondary basis. Maximum power 100 Watts PEP.[3]

Norway ( ITU Region 1 ): On November 6, 2009, the band 5260 – 5410 kHz was opened for general Amateur Radio use, following initially eight channels in the 60m band being made available for Emergency and Emergency Preparedness activities. The allocation is secondary and power is limited to 100 watts.[29] The band was one of the HF bands used in June 2011 during a communications emergency [30]

Oman ( ITU Region 1 ): Oman is allowing 5 MHz operation by means of temporary permits in co-operation with the Royal Omani Amateur Radio Society (ROARS). The allocation covers the range 5319 – 5349 kHz. CW, SSB and Digital Modes are allowed. ( Source: A45WH, ROARS, W8GEX)

Samoa ( ITU Region 3 ): Following discussions, Atsuo Sakuma, 5W1SA, has become the first resident operator on the island to be issued with a special 5 MHz permission by the Samoan telecomms regulator, OoTR (Office Of The Regulator), enabling him to operate over the frequency band 5250–5450 kHz. Although occasional 60m permissions have been available to visitors since 2011, these had generally been the 5 US channels. The permanent amateur population in Samoa has been low in numbers and currently Atsuo is the only resident licensed operator. In April 2013, a dialogue commenced between the regulator and Atsuo which has now eventually resulted in a band rather than purely a channelized allocation. He is permitted 100W, with no other restrictions. It is hoped that this power level may be able to be increased in the future, provided there are no interference issues.

Slovakia ( ITU Region 1 ): Radio amateurs were allowed access to a band from 5258.5 kHz to 5410 kHz for experimental purposes on a non-interference basis by their Telecommunications Regulatory Authority in August 2011, having previously been permitted a single channel centred on 5260 kHz. This was as a result of negotiations with the Slovakia Amateur Radio Association and their ARES ( Amateur Radio Emergency Service ). Maximum power permitted is 100W ERP. Licenses are valid for 1 year.[31]

Somalia ( ITU Region 1 ): The Somali Ministry of Information, Telecommunications & Culture permits non-channelized 5 MHz/60 Meter operation. Upper Sideband [USB] must be used and the allocation is from 5060 – 5450 kHz. All modes are allowed and the maximum power permitted is 3 kW on a non-interference basis.

Spain ( ITU Region 1 ): Following the result of the WRC15 decision on 5 MHz the Spanish administrator has now permitted access to the new allocation 5351.5 – 5366.5 kHz, 15W max e.i.r.p. , 3 kHz max. Bandwidth using SSB and CW modes [32] as at the end of November 2015, their previous Spanish 5 MHz permission came to a close. The new permission runs until 31 December 2016. Originally, in December 2013 the relevant Spanish regulatory authority, SETSI, granted permission for six 5 MHz channels following representations by URE, the Spanish national amateur radio society. These were:- 5268.0, 5295.0, 5313.0, 5382.0, 5430.0 and 5439.0 kHz for a period of six months, commencing January 1. 2014 on the basis of short-to-medium distance and emergency communications criteria. These were channel-centre frequencies, the corresponding USB 'Dial' frequencies being 5266.5, 5293.5, 5311.5, 5380.5, 5428.5 and 5437.5 kHz respectively. To those applicants who were at the requisite licence level to qualify, CW and SSB [USB] modes were permitted with a Power Limit of 100W and bandwidth not to exceed 3 kHz. Following a petition from URE to the regulator, on June 18, 2014 the period of experimental operation was officially extended to November 30, 2015.

Trinidad & Tobago ( ITU Region 2 ): The band 5250 – 5450 kHz is allocated on a secondary basis to the Amateur service. Maximum output power is 1.5 kW ( source 9Y4NED )

Countries with block allocations

Some administrations are unable to allow a full band allocation, but are prepared to provide additional frequencies other than dedicated channels. In such cases, blocks of frequencies may be allocated.

Macedonia ( ITU Region 1 ) RSM - Radioamaterski Sojuz na Makedonija, the Macedonian national amateur radio society, has been involved in discussions with their national telecommunications regulator, AEC - the Agency for Electronic Communications to achieve an amateur allocation in the 5 MHz region. Commencing April 2014, AEC has issued permission for 14 mostly 5 kHz-wide blocks between 5250 and 5450 kHz with 100W Voice, CW and Data. This current permission is granted until 30 January 2017. RSM had originally requested permission for a small group of dedicated radio amateurs ‘ with good experience ’, but as the permission has been given to RSM as an organisation, then this may possibly be modified in the future in the light of evidence accrued.(Source: Z35BY, Z32TO, RSM)

United Kingdom ( ITU Region 1 ) The UK was allocated 11 frequency blocks of varying bandwidths in January 2013. Full information is contained in the United Kingdom entry above.

Countries with channel allocations

Global communication is possible during grey line and night time ionospheric conditions with reports of 70 plus countries having been worked from the UK alone.

In all, radio amateurs from approximately 100 countries have been active on 5 MHz at one time or another since the availability of the band to amateur radio.

Radio amateurs from many countries that do not have transmit access to 60m monitor the band and post their reports of stations heard on activity spotting pages such as the DXWatch 60m page, 60 Meter DX Logger and similar sites ( several of which appear in the External Links section of this article ), together with the Reverse Beacon Network 60m page which indicates current CW activity on the band.

It is quite likely that not all countries' allocations will line up to allow single frequency contacts to be made, in which case split-frequency operation would appear the optimum solution to allow the parties concerned to remain within their legally-allotted frequency limits (presuming of course that the parties' licenses permit this type of split-frequency operation)

Bahrain ( ITU Region 1 ): General Class licensees (all 'A9' prefixed stations) are authorized to use two specific 3.0 kHz channel assignments with center frequencies 5373 kHz and 5405 kHz. The corresponding Upper Sideband (USB) 'dial' frequencies are 5371.5 kHz and 5403.5 kHz. These frequencies are assigned to the amateur service on a secondary non interference basis for propagation experiments. Such stations shall not cause harmful interference to stations of other administrations operating in accordance with the ITU Radio Regulations. The maximum mean power of any amateur station shall not exceed 27 dBW (500 Watts).[33]

Canada ( ITU Region 2 ): On Wednesday 22 January 2014, the Canadian regulator, Industry Canada (IC) released a decision to allow amateur radio operators to use the 5332  kHz, 5348  kHz, 5358.5  kHz, 5373  kHz and 5405  kHz (channel centre) frequencies on a no-interference, no-protection basis, 2.8 kHz bandwidth, same modes as U.S., 100W PEP maximum power. These are the same channels, modes and criteria as those available to US operators on 5 MHz and are as the result of the official IC consultation held earlier in Summer 2012. Prior to this Canadian Amateurs were allowed at the beginning of April 2012 to apply for special interim 5 MHz/60m. development licences under the VX9 callsign series by their regulator, Industry Canada. This provided for the same channels and facilities accorded to US licensees. Following discussions with the Canadian national amateur radio society - Radio Amateurs of Canada (RAC) and the implementation of the US FCC new 60m rules in March 2012, Industry Canada (IC) issued a consultation notice for Canadian radio amateurs in the government Canada Gazette on May 12, 2012. It proposed the American 60m channels and conditions, plus an extra one at 5329 kHz for Canadian domestic use only (at the request of RAC), making a total of six channels. Canadian amateurs had until 12 June 2012 to comment and responses were published on the Industry Canada website on 22 June 2012.[34] At the successful conclusion of this process IC intended to permit general availability of these 5 MHz/60m channels to Canadian amateurs. In the meantime, amateurs were invited to apply to IC for a special interim 5 MHz/60m developmental licence in order to have the opportunity of gaining early access to these frequencies. Amateurs holding the Basic + (with Honours) or the Advanced Certificate were eligible for licensing on these frequencies. Before this, 5 MHz/60m activity from Canada had been on a special permission, limited time basis on specified frequencies. This had originated as early as 2002.[35])

Cayman Islands ( ITU Region 2 ): 60m authorizations became effective on March 29, 2010 and in common with other amateur licensing aspects on the Islands, follow the US 5 MHz allocation and conditions ( Source: ZF1EJ )

Czech Republic ( ITU Region 1 ): Following a comprehensive document on last year’s 5 MHz amateur operation in the Czech Republic and evidence of 5 MHz amateur operating frequencies elsewhere in Europe, Petr, OK1RP, reports that the Czech telecommunications regulator CTU, together with the Czech Ministry of Defence (MoD), have agreed to changes in 5 MHz permits for Czech (OK) radio amateurs following the conclusion of their 2014 permit.

The number of 5 MHz channels available under the new 2015 permit has been increased from 6 to 12 and a substantial number of these have been aligned primarily with the UK allocations. The channels now available are 5276.0, 5288.5, 5298.0, 5313.0, 5330.5, 5333.0, 5362.0, 5366.5, 5371.5, 5395.0, 5398.5 and 5403.5 kHz. All are USB Dial Frequencies, CW Frequencies being + 1.5 kHz from USB Dial. All other Czech 5 MHz permit criteria remain as before (Max. Power 100W e.r.p., 3 kHz Max. Bandwidth) except that there is now no limit to the number of permits available. Permission continues on a yearly report basis, currently into 2016.

At 0000hrs on Jan. 1st 2014, Czech ('OK') amateurs returned to 5 MHz after a break of two years following the conclusion of the original phase of their experimental activity at the end of 2011. As a result of material presented on OK amateur 5 MHz operation and through subsequent discussions, CTU, the Czech telecommunications regulator, together with the agreement of their Ministry of Defence (MoD) allowed a further phase of experimental 5 MHz activity. This was by means of a small number of individual permits valid until the end of 2014. Only 10 permits were available for 2014 based on written request to CTU. Whilst originally limited to only one channel, 5260 kHz, OK amateurs issued with one of these special permits were allowed use of six channels, common to many of the current amateur 5 MHz allocations. These were as follows 5288.5, 5330.5, 5366.5, 5371.5, 5398.5 and 5403.5 kHz - All are USB Dial Frequencies in kHz. Maximum Power: 100W ERP. Modes: USB, CW (+ 1.5 kHz from USB Dial). The permit holder was requested to prepare and send his experimental operation report to CTU no later than 31st.October 2014 in order that analysis of the operation on the different channels and modes could be made.

This experimental operation permit on the 5 MHz band is allowed on a strictly SECONDARY basis and ITU Secondary User rules for protection of the Primary users must be observed at all times in order NOT to disrupt primary users’ operation on this band, therefore potentially jeopardizing amateur activity. The permit holder is also asked to follow IARU recommendations for 5 MHz operation and agreements (5290 kHz allocation for beacon operation etc.) ( Source: IARU Reg. I 60m Update [see 'External Links'] and OK1RP E-Mail )

Dominica ( ITU Region 2 ): The Dominica National Telecommunications Regulator has permitted Amateur operation on five 3 kHz-wide channels on 5 MHz. These are - 5330.5, 5346.5, 5355.5, 5371.5 and 5403.5 kHz at 50W PEP Voice (SSB). These are available to General and Advanced licensees only http://www.ectel.int/images/Amateur-Radio-39-2012.pdf . Please note that the Dominica (J7) 5 MHz allocation should not be confused with the Dominican Republic (HI), which also has a 5 MHz allocation. (Source: ECTEL, Dominica NTRC)

Dominican Republic ( ITU Region 2 ): Amateurs have been granted permission to use seven 5 MHz channels. These are 5258.5, 5278.5, 5288.5, 5366.5, 5371.5, 5398.5 and 5403.5 kHz. Modes currently permitted are USB and CW. ( Source: HI8HH and KQ6XA e-mails )

Finland ( ITU Region 1 ): Club stations may apply for authorization to operate on seven 5 MHz channels with maximum power of 50 Watts on USB only. The USB dial frequencies for Finland are: 5288.6, 5298.6, 5330.6, 5346.6, 5366.6, 5371.6, 5398.6 kHz. ( Source: See IARU Region 1 60m Update )

Greece ( ITU Region 1 ): Their Ministry of Communication gave permission ONLY to the headquarters club station ( SZ1SV ) of the Greek national amateur radio society - RAAG, for use of the single channel 5400 kHz ( 3 kHz bandwidth ). Modes permitted were USB, CW and Digital with a maximum power of 100W PEP. They established a beacon, SZ1SV, on the frequency 5398.5 kHz utilising CW and PSK31 on a timed basis, structured so that it did not obstruct current activity on this channel. Contacts with SZ1SV could also be set up by arrangement. Further details are available from the RAAG [36] website. ( Source: SV1IW, SV1JG, RAAG, W8GEX [37] - 60m Information Website ) As of May 2015, their temporary 5 MHz licence has expired. Further news is awaited (Source: SV1XV [11] ).

Honduras ( ITU Region 2 ): The National Telecommunications Commission (CONATEL) allows general, advanced and superior class licenses to operate on five center frequencies (5332, 5348, 5368, 5373, and 5405 kHz), in USB, with an Effective Radiated Power of 50 watts.[38] By virtue of Resolution NR013/15 dated 30 September 2015, CONATEL upgraded the maximum power level to 100W e.r.p., changed the 5368 kHz to 5358.5 kHz and added the following modes - USB Voice (2K80J3E), Data (2K80J2D), RTTY (60H0J2B) and CW (150HA1A).[39] This is in line with earlier US changes.

Israel ( ITU Region 1 ):The Israeli telecomms regulator - the Ministry of Communications - (IMOC) has decided to grant 5 MHz/60m temporary permission on an individual application basis. 8 Channels are available to General and Extra Class licence holders. The channels are: 5298.5, 5330.5, 5357.0, 5366.5, 5371.5, 5398.5, 5403.5 and 5407.0 kHz (these numbers represent the USB dial frequency - CW is 1.5 kHz higher). There is some flexibility as regards Digital modes with 2500 Hz out of the 3 kHz channel width being available, due to current experimentation with narrowband Data up to 300 Hz bandwidth. No split operation. Maximum Power is 100W PEP measured at the TX (not EIRP). The main goal of IARC - the Israel Amateur Radio Club - is to experiment for local short range emergency communication readiness and the long distance activity is a side product of this. The permission validity is from application approval date until mid March 2014 but it appears this could be extended. Operation is on a secondary status and was coordinated with the spectrum committee of the IMOC representing some other relevant organizations. IARC have had some flexibility in the choice of frequencies and in doing so have endeavoured to coordinate these with 5 MHz/60m amateur frequencies and activities already in existence. It is hoped that as IMOC gain confidence in 5 MHz/60m activity by Israeli amateurs as Secondary status users, then further frequencies may be made available ( Sources - IARC, 4Z1AB, 4Z1TL, 4Z4DX, W8GEX )

Portugal, including The Azores Islands ( ITU Region 1 ): The telecommunications regulator, ANACOM, together with the military of that country, permits 5 MHz operation on a secondary, non-interference basis on three channels 5288.5, 5371.5 and 5403.5 kHz, using CW and USB for Propagation and Emergency Communication coverage tests ( the frequency 5288.5 kHz was added in June 2011 ). Application is by individual request to ANACOM, the current permit period being six-monthly. Further news, logs and official reports of previous operational periods can be viewed on the '5 MHz - Cinco Megahertz' pages of REP, the Portuguese National Amateur Radio Society's website - [40] ( Source: CT1EEB, IARU Region 1 Website,[41] CU3AK). In July 2014, REP was able to negotiate an additional channel with their regulator. The new channel is 5380.5 kHz and is common with one of the Spanish 5 MHz channels, thus direct communication between the two countries will now be possible.

Republic of Ireland ( ITU Region 1 ): In early January 2013, the regulator, ComReg, announced that those Irish amateurs who have taken out the special 5 MHz licence can apply for three more 3 kHz-wide channels, 5300, 5332 and 5348 kHz. All of these are channel center frequencies. This is in addition to the earlier three 3 kHz-wide channels allowed, 5280, 5400 and 5405 kHz, when stations first received permission to operate experimentally on the band on October 17, 2008 ( Source: IRTS News ), thus making a total of six channels now available. The frequency 5290 kHz is also available but is restricted to Listen Only ( for UK beacons ) due to other users. SSB (USB), CW and Phase Modulation is permitted with a max. power limit of 200W (23dBW) on a Secondary, non-interference basis. Communications with non-Amateur stations ( i.e. UK military cadet stations ) is not permitted. Application forms are available from the regulator,.[42] ( Source - Republic of Ireland regulator ComReg )

Romania ( ITU Region 1 ): The Romanian telecomms regulator ANCOM has granted Romanian amateurs access to 5 MHz on a scheduled testing basis, starting 8 Apr 2016 for approximately a year’s duration. At the moment it is limited to the 3 kHz-wide 5363.5 - 5366.5 kHz slot; CW, PSK, RTTY and WSJT (with possibly other digimodes to follow) being permitted. Maximum power allowed is 15W e.i.r.p. and only for those Romanian amateurs who wish to register for the testing program. It would currently appear that the initial testing in this Romanian 5MHz allocation will take place every Thursday around 16.00 UTC, concomitantly with the YO DX QTC Net on 3750KHz. Further information can be obtained from the website of the Romanian national amateur radio society; Federatia Romana de Radioamatorism – FRR (Source: YO3FCA/M0IPU, FRR )

South Africa ( ITU Region 1 ): At the end of April, 2013, ICASA (Independent Communications Authority of South Africa) - the national telecommunications regulator - approved two 5 MHz frequencies for the South African Radio League (SARL) to carry out propagation research. The frequencies currently allocated are 5290 and 5260 kHz. These are 'centre frequencies', the 'USB Dial' frequencies being 1.5 kHz below this (i.e. 5288.5 and 5258.5 kHz). All modes are permitted with 3 kHz maximum bandwidth. Max. Power is 400W PEP output, measured at the output of the radio. The 5290 kHz channel is intended for propagation experiments (e.g. SARL News Bulletin transmissions or Beacon) and must use omnidirectional antennas. The 5260 kHz channel is intended for general contacts. The licence was purchased by the SARL, so the channels are private and licensed to the SARL, who allow their members to use them. Participating licencees, who must be SARL members, must register.[43] Following a SARL request, in April 2014 ICASA issued a long-term licence which was valid until 31 October 2015. A further extension was granted to February 2016. Another extension is being granted, with possible migration to the new frequency range agreed at WRC-15.

St. Kitts and Nevis ( ITU Region 2 ): In September 2015, General and Advanced Class amateurs received permission to operate on 5 MHz on a Secondary basis. The channels allocated are the same as those used by the USA, with 50W Max. ERP, SSB only.[44] ( Source: ECTEL - Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority )

St. Lucia ( ITU Region 2 ): Amateurs have received permission to operate on 5 MHz on a Secondary basis. The channels allocated are the same as those used by the USA, with 50W Max. ERP, SSB only. ( Source: St. Lucia National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission, 'Technical Standards for Amateur Radio Service' document )

Sweden ( ITU Region 1 ): The Swedish telecomms regulator, PTS, has begun to issue 5 MHz experimental permits, one of the first being to Johan, SMØTSC at the beginning of 2013. The permits are limited in time to 6 months and PTS requires a fee for administration. Presently the following frequencies apply: 5310-5313, 5320-5323, 5380-5383 and 5390-5393  kHz. Bandwidth is limited to 3 kHz independent of the type of modulation. The USB Voice 'Dial' frequencies are 5310.0, 5320.0, 5380.0 and 5390.0 kHz respectively. Maximum power permitted is 100W PEP on a non-interference basis. Mobile operation is not permitted. ( Sources: SMØTSC, SM6CNN, IARU Reg. 1 website )

Occasional permissions

Whilst most of the 60 meter operations listed in this article are either on a permanent secondary or experimental period basis, there are occasions when access is granted either on a one-off very limited time frame or for specific dates and times.

Other authorized 5 MHz operations have been reported such as Ascension Island, Belize, Colombia, Ghana, Kenya, Kiribati, Russia and Turkey. Some Amateur Radio DXpeditions have been permitted temporary access to 5 MHz, although the ARRL ( American Radio Relay League ) has expressed concern that over-emphasis on 'DX' activities could be counter-productive to the eventual obtaining of an ITU Amateur allocation at 5 MHz http://www.arrl.org/arrlletter?issue=2007-04-06

Emergencies only

In certain countries, Amateur access to frequencies in 5 MHz is on an emergency or search & rescue basis only. In addition, Amateur call signs may not always be used, nor Amateur equipment. Currently these countries are :-

  • Australia ( ITU Region 3 ): It has been requested by the authorities to make clear that the 5 MHz frequencies used by WICEN ( Wireless Institute of Australia Civil Emergency Network[45] ) are for emergencies and related exercises. It is NOT an amateur allocation. Non-amateur call signs, AXF404, AXF405 and VXE580 are used together with ACMA (Australian Communications & Media Authority[46] ) type-approved radio equipment such as the commercial HF SSB transceivers (e.g. Codan[47] or Barrett [48]) normally used for Outback communications in the VKS737 Australian HF network - which serves remote travelers.
  • New Zealand ( ITU Region 3 ): The two frequencies 5320 and 5395 kHz USB, 2K8 bandwidth, are available only for AREC operations [49] ( the Amateur Radio Emergency Communications section of the NZ National Amateur Radio Society NZART ) . AREC Callsigns must be used. ( source: NZART website [50] ) In June 2012, NZART set up a working party to prepare material to contribute to the WRC 2015 5 MHz Agenda Item submission[51]
  • USA - State of Alaska ( ITU Region 2 ): In addition to previously mentioned USA 60m Amateur channels, the frequency 5167.5 kHz USB is available for emergency communications within the state of Alaska and it may be used "for tests and training drills necessary to ensure the establishment, operation, and maintenance of emergency communication systems."[52]

Frequency lists

NIB = Non-Interference Basis

Italics = Frequency not operational at this specific time

Beacons

Frequency Country Callsign Grid-square Notes
5195.0 kHz Germany DRA5 JO44vq Propagation information beacon. CW/PSK31/RTTY. Transmits: 0400 - 2200 UTC Summertime, 0500 - 2300 UTC Wintertime. See 'Propagation Beacons'.
5289.5 kHz Denmark OV1BCN JO55si Personal Beacon, h24 +04/19/34/49 minutes. USB/CW/MT63 ( CW - 5290.5 kHz. )
5290.0 kHz South Africa ZS6SRL KG33wv This beacon is the main beacon for the South African Amateur Radio League. The beacon and a number of other South African stations are running WSPR mode for experimental purposes. (WSPR is configured as Dial Freq USB 5287.2 kHz TX Freq 5288.7 kHz, which is within the channel allocation)
5290.0 kHz South Africa ZS6KTS KG43cw This was the first WSPR 60 m beacon in South Africa.
5290.0 kHz South Africa ZS1TB JF96hb This is a permanent WSPR beacon commissioned at the end of October 2014.
5290.0 kHz United Kingdom GB3RAL IO91in Transmits sequentially on the hour + 0/15/30/45 minutes. Stepped power levels. CW/PSK31. CURRENTLY OFF-AIR PENDING POSSIBLE SITE CHANGE
5290.0 kHz United Kingdom GB3WES IO84qn Transmits sequentially on the hour + 1/16/31/46 minutes. Stepped power levels. CW.
5290.0 kHz United Kingdom GB3ORK IO89ja Transmits sequentially on the hour + 2/17/32/47 minutes. Stepped power levels. CW.
5291.0 kHz Switzerland HB9AW JN43ba Transmits sequentially on the hour + every 5 minutes. Stepped power levels. More Info at http://www.hb9aw.ch/
5352.5 kHz Hungary HG7BHB JN97le 50W CW Continuous.
5398.5 kHz Greece SZ1SV KM17ux Mostly 1900 - 0600 UTC h +00/15/30/45 minutes. Stepped power levels. CW/PSK31. Currently the only 5 MHz station permitted in Greece - beacon off-air during contacts.

Band allocations

Frequency Band Country Notes
5275.0 – 5450.0 kHz Andorra Secondary, CW & USB, Max.100W PEP, 3 kHz Max. B/W. Until WRC15.
5250.0 – 5310.0 kHz Bangladesh Secondary, All Modes, NIB, General
5250.0 – 5400.0 kHz Barbados USB Voice, 100W PEP
5351.5 – 5366.5 kHz Belgium All Modes, 15W eirp, Class A (HAREC) licensees. New ITU WRC15 Allocation.
5250.0 – 5450.0 kHz Bulgaria Secondary - All Modes, 100W.
5260.0 – 5410.0 kHz Croatia All Modes, Individual Application, Licence valid 1 yr.
5418.0 – 5430.0 kHz Cuba USB, CW, Digital (PSK31/63) Novices 10W, Others 50W - Emergencies 100W.
5250.0 – 5450.0 kHz Denmark including The Faeroe Islands Secondary, All Modes, 1 kW erp Category 'A' / 100W Category 'B' Licence
5250.0 – 5450.0 kHz Greenland Secondary, 100W, USB, CW and Digital Modes
5250.0 – 5450.0 kHz Grenada USB & CW, 1 kW pep Advanced / 500W General Class
5350.0 – 5450.0 kHz Hungary Secondary, 100W (measured at TX output). All Modes, renewable temporary 3-month permit
5260.0 – 5410.0 kHz Iceland 100W
5350.0 – 5450.0 kHz Netherlands 100W PEP Secondary Full ('F-registration') Licensees
5260.0 – 5410.0 kHz Norway Secondary, 100W
5319.0 – 5349.0 kHz Oman Secondary, CW, SSB and Digital Modes. Temporary Permits.
5250.0 – 5450.0 kHz Samoa 100W, No other restrictions
5258.5 – 5410.0 kHz Slovakia 100W erp, Licence valid 1 yr., NIB
5060.0 – 5450.0 kHz Somalia All Modes, USB must be used, 3 kW, NIB
5351.5 – 5366.5 kHz Spain CW and SSB, 15W eirp, 3 kHz max bandwidth, till 31/12/2016. New ITU WRC15 Allocation.
5250.0 – 5450.0 kHz Trinidad & Tobago Secondary, 1.5 kW

Block allocations

Country From To Width Notes
Macedonia 5250.0 kHz 5254.0 kHz 4.0 kHz 100W Voice, CW and Data
Macedonia 5258.0 kHz 5263.0 kHz 5.0 kHz 100W Voice, CW and Data
Macedonia 5285.0 kHz 5290.0 kHz 5.0 kHz 100W Voice, CW and Data
Macedonia 5303.0 kHz 5308.0 kHz 5.0 kHz 100W Voice, CW and Data
Macedonia 5312.0 kHz 5317.0 kHz 5.0 kHz 100W Voice, CW and Data
Macedonia 5321.0 kHz 5326.0 kHz 5.0 kHz 100W Voice, CW and Data
Macedonia 5330.0 kHz 5335.0 kHz 5.0 kHz 100W Voice, CW and Data
Macedonia 5357.0 kHz 5362.0 kHz 5.0 kHz 100W Voice, CW and Data
Macedonia 5366.0 kHz 5371.0 kHz 5.0 kHz 100W Voice, CW and Data
Macedonia 5384.0 kHz 5389.0 kHz 5.0 kHz 100W Voice, CW and Data
Macedonia 5402.0 kHz 5407.0 kHz 5.0 kHz 100W Voice, CW and Data
Macedonia 5411.0 kHz 5416.0 kHz 5.0 kHz 100W Voice, CW and Data
Macedonia 5420.0 kHz 5425.0 kHz 5.0 kHz 100W Voice, CW and Data
Macedonia 5429.0 kHz 5434.0 kHz 5.0 kHz 100W Voice, CW and Data
United Kingdom 5258.5 kHz 5264.0 kHz 5.5 kHz 100W PEP (200W EIRP), Max TX B/W 6 kHz, Max Ant Ht 20m agl, All Modes
United Kingdom 5276.0 kHz 5284.0 kHz 8 kHz 100W PEP (200W EIRP), Max TX B/W 6 kHz, Max Ant Ht 20m agl, All Modes
United Kingdom 5288.5 kHz 5292.0 kHz 3.5 kHz 100W PEP (200W EIRP), Max TX B/W 6 kHz, Max Ant Ht 20m agl, All Modes
United Kingdom 5298.0 kHz 5307.0 kHz 9 kHz 100W PEP (200W EIRP), Max TX B/W 6 kHz, Max Ant Ht 20m agl, All Modes
United Kingdom 5313.0 kHz 5323.0 kHz 10 kHz 100W PEP (200W EIRP), Max TX B/W 6 kHz, Max Ant Ht 20m agl, All Modes
United Kingdom 5333.0 kHz 5338.0 kHz 5 kHz 100W PEP (200W EIRP), Max TX B/W 6 kHz, Max Ant Ht 20m agl, All Modes
United Kingdom 5354.0 kHz 5358.0 kHz 4 kHz 100W PEP (200W EIRP), Max TX B/W 6 kHz, Max Ant Ht 20m agl, All Modes
United Kingdom 5362.0 kHz 5374.5 kHz 12.5 kHz 100W PEP (200W EIRP), Max TX B/W 6 kHz, Max Ant Ht 20m agl, All Modes
United Kingdom 5378.0 kHz 5382.0 kHz 4 kHz 100W PEP (200W EIRP), Max TX B/W 6 kHz, Max Ant Ht 20m agl, All Modes
United Kingdom 5395.0 kHz 5401.5 kHz 6.5 kHz 100W PEP (200W EIRP), Max TX B/W 6 kHz, Max Ant Ht 20m agl, All Modes
United Kingdom 5403.5 kHz 5406.5 kHz 3 kHz 100W PEP (200W EIRP), Max TX B/W 6 kHz, Max Ant Ht 20m agl, All Modes

Channel allocations

Frequency Country Notes
5371.5 kHz Bahrain USB Max.Power 27 dBW ( 500 Watts )
5403.5 kHz Bahrain USB Max.Power 27 dBW ( 500 Watts )
5330.5 kHz Canada As current US 5 MHz allocation and conditions
5346.5 kHz Canada As current US 5 MHz allocation and conditions
5357.0 kHz Canada As current US 5 MHz allocation and conditions
5371.5 kHz Canada As current US 5 MHz allocation and conditions
5403.5 kHz Canada As current US 5 MHz allocation and conditions
5330.5 kHz Cayman Islands As current US 5 MHz allocation and conditions
5346.5 kHz Cayman Islands As current US 5 MHz allocation and conditions
5357.0 kHz Cayman Islands As current US 5 MHz allocation and conditions
5371.5 kHz Cayman Islands As current US 5 MHz allocation and conditions
5403.5 kHz Cayman Islands As current US 5 MHz allocation and conditions
5276.0 kHz Czech Republic 100W ERP, USB & CW (+1.5 kHz from USB Dial Frequency)
5288.5 kHz Czech Republic 100W ERP, USB & CW (+1.5 kHz from USB Dial Frequency)
5298.0 kHz Czech Republic 100W ERP, USB & CW (+1.5 kHz from USB Dial Frequency)
5313.0 kHz Czech Republic 100W ERP, USB & CW (+1.5 kHz from USB Dial Frequency)
5330.5 kHz Czech Republic 100W ERP, USB & CW (+1.5 kHz from USB Dial Frequency)
5333.0 kHz Czech Republic 100W ERP, USB & CW (+1.5 kHz from USB Dial Frequency)
5362.0 kHz Czech Republic 100W ERP, USB & CW (+1.5 kHz from USB Dial Frequency)
5366.5 kHz Czech Republic 100W ERP, USB & CW (+1.5 kHz from USB Dial Frequency)
5371.5 kHz Czech Republic 100W ERP, USB & CW (+1.5 kHz from USB Dial Frequency)
5395.0 kHz Czech Republic 100W ERP, USB & CW (+1.5 kHz from USB Dial Frequency)
5398.5 kHz Czech Republic 100W ERP, USB & CW (+1.5 kHz from USB Dial Frequency)
5403.5 kHz Czech Republic 100W ERP, USB & CW (+1.5 kHz from USB Dial Frequency)
5330.5 kHz Dominica 50W PEP, Voice (SSB), General and Advanced licensees only
5346.5 kHz Dominica 50W PEP, Voice (SSB), General and Advanced licensees only
5355.5 kHz Dominica 50W PEP, Voice (SSB), General and Advanced licensees only
5371.5 kHz Dominica 50W PEP, Voice (SSB), General and Advanced licensees only
5403.5 kHz Dominica 50W PEP, Voice (SSB), General and Advanced licensees only
5258.5 kHz Dominican Republic USB & CW
5278.5 kHz Dominican Republic USB & CW
5288.5 kHz Dominican Republic USB & CW
5366.5 kHz Dominican Republic USB & CW
5371.5 kHz Dominican Republic USB & CW
5398.5 kHz Dominican Republic USB & CW
5403.5 kHz Dominican Republic USB & CW
5288.6 kHz Finland Club Stations Max. Power 50W USB
5298.6 kHz Finland Club Stations Max. Power 50W USB
5330.6 kHz Finland Club Stations Max. Power 50W USB
5346.6 kHz Finland Club Stations Max. Power 50W USB
5366.6 kHz Finland Club Stations Max. Power 50W USB
5371.6 kHz Finland Club Stations Max. Power 50W USB
5398.6 kHz Finland Club Stations Max. Power 50W USB
5398.5 kHz Greece SZ1SV RAAG HQ Station ONLY. SSB, CW & Digital. Max 100W PEP
5330.5 kHz Honduras USB Voice, Data, RTTY, CW Max. Power: 100W PEP ERP.
5346.5 kHz Honduras USB Voice, Data, RTTY, CW Max. Power: 100W PEP ERP.
5357.0 kHz Honduras USB Voice, Data, RTTY, CW Max. Power: 100W PEP ERP.
5371.5 kHz Honduras USB Voice, Data, RTTY, CW Max. Power: 100W PEP ERP.
5403.5 kHz Honduras USB Voice, Data, RTTY, CW Max. Power: 100W PEP ERP.
5298.5 kHz Israel 100W PEP @ TX, USB CW RTTY PSK
5330.5 kHz Israel 100W PEP @ TX, USB CW
5357.0 kHz Israel 100W PEP @ TX, RTTY PSK CW USB
5366.5 kHz Israel 100W PEP @ TX, USB CW RTTY PSK ( also Olivia 4/ or 8/250 & 4/125 )
5371.5 kHz Israel 100W PEP @ TX, USB
5398.5 kHz Israel 100W PEP @ TX, CW USB RTTY PSK
5403.5 kHz Israel 100W PEP @ TX, USB RTTY PSK CW
5407.0 kHz Israel 100W PEP @ TX, USB RTTY PSK CW
5320.0 kHz New Zealand For emergency use only. AREC Callsigns must be used.
5395.0 kHz New Zealand For emergency use only. AREC Callsigns must be used.
5288.5 kHz Portugal including The Azores Islands USB and CW
5371.5 kHz Portugal including The Azores Islands USB and CW
5380.5 kHz Portugal including The Azores Islands USB and CW
5403.5 kHz Portugal including The Azores Islands USB and CW
5278.5 kHz Republic of Ireland 200W PEP USB, CW and Digital Modes. Licence valid per year
5290.0 kHz Republic of Ireland Receive Only ( for UK Beacons )
5298.5 kHz Republic of Ireland 200W PEP USB, CW and Digital Modes. Licence valid per year
5330.5 kHz Republic of Ireland 200W PEP USB, CW and Digital Modes. Licence valid per year
5346.5 kHz Republic of Ireland 200W PEP USB, CW and Digital Modes. Licence valid per year
5398.5 kHz Republic of Ireland 200W PEP USB, CW and Digital Modes. Licence valid per year
5403.5 kHz Republic of Ireland 200W PEP USB, CW and Digital Modes. Licence valid per year
5363.5 kHz Romania 15W eirp. CW, PSK, RTTY, WSJT (& possibly other Digimodes). Scheduled test basis.
5258.5 kHz South Africa 100W (400W PEP) @ TX, All Modes - General Contacts
5288.5 kHz South Africa 100W (400W PEP) @ TX, All Modes - Propagation Expts. Only
5330.5 kHz St. Kitts & Nevis As current US 5 MHz allocation, Voice (SSB), 50W PEP, General & Advanced Class
5346.5 kHz St. Kitts & Nevis As current US 5 MHz allocation, Voice (SSB), 50W PEP, General & Advanced Class
5357.0 kHz St. Kitts & Nevis As current US 5 MHz allocation, Voice (SSB), 50W PEP, General & Advanced Class
5371.5 kHz St. Kitts & Nevis As current US 5 MHz allocation, Voice (SSB), 50W PEP, General & Advanced Class
5403.5 kHz St. Kitts & Nevis As current US 5 MHz allocation, Voice (SSB), 50W PEP, General & Advanced Class
5330.5 kHz St. Lucia As current US 5 MHz allocation
5346.5 kHz St. Lucia As current US 5 MHz allocation
5357.0 kHz St. Lucia As current US 5 MHz allocation
5371.5 kHz St. Lucia As current US 5 MHz allocation
5403.5 kHz St. Lucia As current US 5 MHz allocation
5310.0 kHz Sweden Max.Power 100W PEP Experimental Permit valid 6 months. NIB
5320.0 kHz Sweden Max.Power 100W PEP Experimental Permit valid 6 months. NIB
5380.0 kHz Sweden Max.Power 100W PEP Experimental Permit valid 6 months. NIB
5390.0 kHz Sweden Max.Power 100W PEP Experimental Permit valid 6 months. NIB
5250.5 kHz Trinidad and Tobago USB, CW, RTTY & Data. Max. Power: 1 kW PEP ERP.
5167.5 kHz United States For emergency, test and training drill use and only available in Alaska.
5330.5 kHz United States USB, CW, RTTY & Data. Max. Power: 100W PEP ERP.
5346.5 kHz United States USB, CW, RTTY & Data. Max. Power: 100W PEP ERP.
5357.0 kHz United States USB, CW, RTTY & Data. Max. Power: 100W PEP ERP.
5371.5 kHz United States USB, CW, RTTY & Data. Max. Power: 100W PEP ERP.
5403.5 kHz United States USB, CW, RTTY & Data. Max. Power: 100W PEP ERP.

Notes and references

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  3. ↑ http://www.itu.int/en/Pages/default.aspx
  4. ↑ http://www.itu.int/ITU-R/index.asp?category=information&link=rhome&lang=en
  5. ↑ http://www.southgatearc.org/news/2014/september/brazil_proposes_5275_to_5450_khz.htm
  6. ↑ http://www.cept.org/ecc/groups/ecc/cpg/page/8th-cpg-meeting-took-place-in-bergen,-norway
  7. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  8. ↑ Andy Talbot G4JNT: "Design and building of the 5 MHz beacons, GB3RAL, GB3WES and GB3ORK" [1]
  9. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  10. ↑ ZS6KTS Forum: 5MHz BEACON and PROPAGATION STUDY
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 Talk:60-meter band
  12. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  13. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.Restored changed link
  14. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  15. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  16. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  17. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  18. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  19. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  20. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  21. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  22. ↑ https://www.dropbox.com/s/gzi71tafie1f7rq/Resolucio%20Banda%2060m.pdf
  23. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  24. ↑ http://www.bipt.be/public/files/fr/21639/2016-03-01_Decision_FRERAM-15.pdf
  25. ↑ http://www.hakom.hr
  26. ↑ https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/R0710.aspx?id=141490
  27. ↑ http://www.edr.dk/Default.aspx?ID=1013
  28. ↑ http://www.ntrc.gd/Documents%202/Consultations/NTRC%20GRENDA%20-%20Comments%20on%20Amateur%20Radio%20Regulations%20Consultation.pdf
  29. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  30. ↑ https://www.nrrl.no/component/content/article/1-latest-news/258--nrrl-nodsamband-aktivert
  31. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  32. ↑ http://www.minetur.gob.es/telecomunicaciones/Espectro/radioaficionados/Autorizaciones%20uso%20temporal/Resolucion5MHz.pdf
  33. ↑ A92IO EI3IO A92IO June 2011 and Bahrain Amateur License Schedule
  34. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  35. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  36. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  37. ↑ http://www.60meters.net/
  38. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  39. ↑ http://www.conatel.gob.hn/doc/Regulacion/resoluciones/2015/NR013-15.pdf
  40. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  41. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  42. ↑ [2] ComReg Additional Authorisations application form
  43. ↑ http://www.amateurradio.org.za/propresearch.htm www.amateurradio.org.za/propresearch.htm
  44. ↑ http://www.ectel.int/documents/telecoms-regulations/St-Kitts/SKN-SR-O_22of2015-Amateur_Radio_Regulations10292015.pdf
  45. ↑ http://tas.wicen.org.au/SOPs/WICEN_5MHz.htm
  46. ↑ http://www.acma.gov.au/WEB/LANDING/pc=SPECTRUM_MAIN
  47. ↑ http://www.codanradio.com/
  48. ↑ http://www.barrettcommunications.com.au/
  49. ↑ http://www.nzart.org.nz/arec/
  50. ↑ http://www.nzart.org.nz/council/policies/2009-access-to-5-mhz/
  51. ↑ http://www.nzart.org.nz/h-quarter/infoline/253-15-jun-2012/
  52. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.

External links

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