60-meter band

Regions with allocations in the 60m amateur radio band. Blue regions have official allocations. Green regions have experimental allocations. Red regions have emergency-only allocations. Cyan regions have allocations to limited license holders.

The 60 meter band or 5 MHz band is a relatively new amateur radio allocation (not strictly a band), 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 from discrete channels to a frequency band allocation. At present there is no worldwide common International Telecommunication Union (ITU) frequency allocation as is the case with other amateur radio bands. Allocations are made by individual administrations 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 60m, 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.

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 it is mandatory. Where channelization is used, the USB voice 'dial' frequency is normally 1.5 kHz below the quoted channel frequency (e.g. 5403.5 kHz is the USB voice 'dial' frequency for the channel 5405 kHz).

Amateur equipment made in Japan and surrounding countries often did not support this 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 destined for the North American market has begun to include provision for US 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^[1] (ITU), which allocates global radio spectrum and satellite orbits,^[2] 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 COM6/12 was ratified as being placed on the Agenda for the next WRC in 2015 (WRC-15). This resolution invites 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 official ITU text is as follows :-

"Resolution 649 [COM6/12] (WRC‑12)

Possible allocation to the amateur service on a secondary basis at around 5300 kHz

The World Radiocommunication Conference (Geneva, 2012),

considering

a) that amateur stations are regularly used for emergency radiocommunications in the event of hurricanes, typhoons, floods, fires, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and other disaster situations;

b) that Recommendation ITU‑R M.1042‑3, on disaster communications in the amateur and amateur-satellite services, encourages the development of such services capable of providing radiocommunications in the event of natural disasters, and recommends that their networks be robust, flexible and independent of other telecommunication services and capable of operating from emergency power;

c) that communications in the HF bands allocated to the amateur service play a major role in work to mitigate catastrophes and in the delivery of communications in support of relief operations in areas where the telecommunication infrastructure is weak or has collapsed;

d) that the various frequency bands allocated to the amateur service are contained in the Table of Frequency Allocations in Article 5 of the Radio Regulations,

recognizing

a) that radiocommunication in the HF bands is dependent on propagation factors, with the result that frequencies in different bands have to be used to maintain stable communication for a relatively sustained period of time, with frequency changes in the case of communications with different correspondents located at very different distances;

b) that it is essential that, in all cases, the maximum usable frequency (MUF) should not be excessively far from the next band allocated to the amateur service, so as to permit the setting up of communications in this band using typical amateur service antennas and power levels;

c) that, in the current allocations to the amateur service in the HF bands, there is a significant jump, which causes many problems in terms of communication when the MUF falls below 7 MHz and the lowest usable frequency (LUF) is above 4 MHz, with the result that amateur stations would need to be able to access spectrum at around 5 MHz in order to fulfil their communication functions, particularly when they are engaged in providing emergency communications in response to disaster situations,

noting

a) that the band 5250–5450 kHz is allocated to the fixed and mobile services, except aeronautical mobile, on a primary basis;

b) that an allocation of an appropriate amount of spectrum, not necessarily contiguous, to the amateur service at around 5300 kHz would be adequate to better satisfy its needs associated with use for providing communications in disaster situations and during relief operations;

c) that the band 10100–10150 kHz is already allocated to the fixed service on a primary basis and to the amateur service on a secondary basis, and that effective use of both services has been possible,

resolves to invite WRC‑15

to consider, based on the results of the ITU‑R studies referred to in invites ITU‑R below, 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,

invites ITU‑R

1) to study spectrum requirements for a secondary allocation to the amateur service within the band 5250–5450 kHz;

2) to carry out sharing studies on the impact to other services currently allocated in the band referred to in invites ITU‑R 1 and in the adjacent bands;

3) to complete studies in time for WRC‑15"

( Source: An Official Document on the WRC 2015 Agenda ( Item 1.4 ) and its associated Working Party WP5A-1 is now available on the ITU website at http://www.itu.int/ITU-R/index.asp?category=study-groups&rlink=rcpm-wrc-15-studies&lang=en#rcpm-chapters-wrc-15 )

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).^[3] At the CITEL Regional Conference held in Merida 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".

Propagation characteristics

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 Ionosphere's Critical Frequency (foF2) 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^[4]

Propagation beacons

A number of radio propagation beacons are active on 5 MHz, some of which produce a sequence of varying power levels. 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^[5]

On the 5290 kHz channel (5289.5 kHz / USB) also is the Danish (ITU Region 1) personal beacon OV1BCN ^[6] (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 German (ITU Region 1) Amateur Radio Club (DARC) operates a propagation information beacon, 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)

The Radio Amateur Association of Greece - RAAG - (ITU Region 1) has set up a beacon on 5398.5 kHz under the Society's club callsign, SZ1SV (KM17ux). It transmits 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 is mostly between 1900 - 0600 UTC, however It may be off for some days due to other HF activities at the test site, or, of course, when the station is engaged in a 5 MHz contact with other stations outside of Greece . Further details are available from the RAAG website.

The South African Amateur Radio League - SARL - (ITU Region 1) recently 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. The beacon is transmitting 5 Watts and repeats every 6-12 mins. This is to assist SARL with their propagation studies ^[7] and is in response to requests from other clubs and international researchers. 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 changed frequency on 4 October 2014. 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, 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 10dB in the EIRP power sequence 10W / 5 W / 1Watt / 100mW concluding with 10mW 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.

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..

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 the subject of active research by radio amateurs due to its propagation properties. This research commenced in August 2002 ^[8] 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 1st. 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 7th 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.
• 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 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:-

The former seven 3 kHz-wide 'channels' used for 5 MHz operation in the UK up to 31st Dec 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.^[9]

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,^[10] written by Alan, G0TLK.^[11][12]

Later the same day a net is conducted (known colloquially as the 'Sunset Net'), also on 5398.5 kHz USB voice (5278.5 kHz backup), to investigate propagation changes at sunset. The start time of this net naturally varies in sympathy with UK sunset time, which is taken from local sunset time at the UK Prime Meridian. All callers are welcome in order to build a weekly picture of propagation on 5 MHz at this time of day.

This band is unique in the United Kingdom insofar as UK 5 MHz NoV holders 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.^[13] 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,^[14] 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 ^[15] 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.^[16] The five 'channels' currently used for 60m in the USA (ITU Region 2) are:

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:

• USB Voice (2K80J3E)
• CW (150HA1A)
• RTTY (60H0J2B) (Example: PSK31)
• Data (2K80J2D) (Example: Pactor III or Packet)

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.

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:^[17]

• 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.

Other 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).^[18]

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.^[19] 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.^[20])

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.

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 are now allowed use of six channels, common to many of the current amateur 5 MHz allocations. These are 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 can be made. This experimental operation permit on 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 was 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 ): Ministry of Communication has given 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 are USB, CW and Digital with a maximum power of 100W PEP. They have established a beacon, SZ1SV, on the frequency 5398.5 kHz utilising CW and PSK31 on a timed basis, structured so that it does not obstruct current activity on this channel. Contacts with SZ1SV can also be set up by arrangement Further details are available from the RAAG ^[21] website. ( Source: SV1IW, SV1JG, RAAG, W8GEX ^[22] - 60m Information Website )

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 - ^[23] ( Source: CT1EEB, IARU Region 1 Website,^[24] 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. 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,.^[25] ( Source - Republic of Ireland regulator ComReg )

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 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 100W (400W PEP) measured at the output of the radio. Antenna must be omnidirectional on 5290 KHz. The 5290 kHz channel is intended for propagation experiments (e.g. SARL News Bulletin transmissions or Beacon) and 5260 kHz for general contacts ( Both these channels now are common to a number of countries ). The licence is a pilot licence which has been purchased, so the channels are private and licensed to the SARL, who allow their members to use the frequencies. Participating stations, who need to be SARL members, must register.^[26] Following a SARL request, in April 2014 ICASA issued a long-term licence which is valid until 31 October 2015.

Spain ( ITU Region 1 ): Following representations by URE, the Spanish national amateur radio society, in December 2013 the relevant Spanish regulatory authority, SETSI, granted permission for the following six 5 MHz channels:- 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 are 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 are at the requisite licence level to qualify, CW and SSB [USB] modes are permitted with a Power Limit of 100W and bandwidth is 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.

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 )

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 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 the end of April 2015. 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 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 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.^[27]

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^[28] )

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 ^[29] )

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. 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 on the national territory and only between Cuban amateurs; no contact is allowed with other countries "until further notice".

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 ^[30] & EDR ^[31] 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^[32] ( 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 )

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 ).

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.^[33] The band was one of the HF bands used in June 2011 during a communications emergency ^[34]

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.^[35]

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.

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 )

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, Bulgaria, Colombia, Ghana, Honduras, Kenya, Kiribati, Russia and Turkey. Some Amateur Radio DXpeditions have been permitted 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^[36] ) 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^[37] ) type-approved radio equipment such as the commercial HF SSB transceivers (e.g. Codan^[38] or Barrett ^[39]) 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 ^[40] ( the Amateur Radio Emergency Communications section of the NZ National Amateur Radio Society NZART ) . AREC Callsigns must be used. ( source: NZART website ^[41] ) In June 2012, NZART set up a working party to prepare material to contribute to the WRC 2015 5 MHz Agenda Item submission^[42]
• 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."^[43]

Frequency lists

NIB = Non-Interference Basis

Italics = Frequency not operational at this specific time

Beacons

Band allocations

Block allocations

Channel allocations

Notes and references

External links

• 60m/5 MHz Activity Spotting Sites:
  • DXSummit 5 MHz page
  • DXWatch: 60m page
  • Hamspots 60m page: http://hamspots.net/60/ ( particularly inclined towards digimodes )
  • Reverse Beacon Network : 60m page ( CW Skimmer system )
  • 60 Meter DX Logger: http://dxworld.com/60mlog.html
• Modifications to commercial amateur HF Transceivers in order to enable 5 MHz/60m operation - see http://www.mods.dk/
• Construction and further info Construction + antenna
• G3USF's Worldwide HF Beacon List:
• Beacon monitoring systems and more propagation studies
• 'CQ Sixty Meters': - the 60m Information Website. http://60metersonline.net
• Petr, OK1RP's 60m Page
• 60 Meters Technical Information
• 5 MHz Channel Frequencies and 5MHz USA Technical Regulatory Background
• UK NVIS Presentation (G4MWO)
• IARU Region One 5 MHz/60m Page
• RAYNET ( UK Amateur Radio Emergency Communications ) HF Team Schedule: http://raynet-hf.net/about-us/scheduled-nets/
• The 5 MHz Newsletter ( current edition ) and its archive page
• G4MWO's Worldwide Amateur 5 MHz Allocation Chart (new format)
• ITU Regional Map
• Radio Society of Great Britain 5 MHz pages
• South African Radio League 5 MHz pages