What is high-frequency (HF) radio?

High-frequency (HF) radio refers to the portion of the radio frequency spectrum ranging from 3 to 30 megahertz (MHz). This frequency range is critical for long-distance communication because it can take advantage of the Earth’s ionosphere to propagate radio waves over great distances, a process called skywave propagation or ionospheric bounce. HF radio plays a crucial role in various applications, including amateur radio, aviation, marine, military, and emergency communication.

Amateur Radio and HF

In the realm of amateur radio, HF communication offers numerous opportunities for operators to make long-distance (DX) contacts with other hams worldwide. The HF bands available to amateur radio operators vary depending on their license class and the country in which they operate. In the United States, the most common HF bands for amateur radio are 80 meters (3.5-4.0 MHz), 40 meters (7.0-7.3 MHz), 30 meters (10.1-10.15 MHz), 20 meters (14.0-14.35 MHz), 17 meters (18.068-18.168 MHz), 15 meters (21.0-21.45 MHz), 12 meters (24.89-24.99 MHz), and 10 meters (28.0-29.7 MHz).

Propagation and HF

HF radio waves can travel vast distances due to their ability to bounce off the Earth’s ionosphere. The ionosphere is a layer of the Earth’s atmosphere composed of ionized particles, located approximately 60 to 600 kilometers above the Earth’s surface. When an HF radio wave encounters the ionosphere, it can be refracted (bent) back towards the Earth, allowing it to travel beyond the horizon. This process is known as skywave propagation.

The effectiveness of skywave propagation varies depending on several factors, including time of day, solar activity, and the frequency used. Lower frequencies tend to propagate better at night, while higher frequencies perform better during daylight hours. Solar activity also impacts propagation, with increased ionospheric ionization resulting in better propagation conditions. However, excessive solar activity can also lead to disruptions in HF communication.

Modes of Communication and HF

Amateur radio operators can use various modes of communication on HF bands, including:

• Single Sideband (SSB): SSB is the most common voice mode used on HF bands. It is a form of amplitude modulation (AM) that eliminates one sideband and the carrier, making it more bandwidth-efficient and allowing for greater signal strength.
• Morse Code (CW): Morse code, also known as continuous wave (CW) operation, is a popular mode for HF communication due to its simplicity, low bandwidth requirements, and ability to penetrate through interference and poor propagation conditions.
• Digital Modes: Numerous digital modes are available for HF communication, such as RTTY (radioteletype), PSK31, FT8, and JS8Call. These modes use computers or specialized devices to encode and decode messages, often providing greater sensitivity and error correction than traditional voice or CW modes.
• Slow Scan Television (SSTV): SSTV is a mode used to transmit images over HF radio waves. It involves converting an image into an analog audio signal, which is then transmitted and decoded by the receiving station.

Antennas and HF

Effective antennas are essential for successful HF communication. The choice of antenna depends on factors such as available space, desired frequency range, and radiation pattern. Some popular HF antennas include:

• Dipole Antenna: A simple and versatile antenna, consisting of two wire elements, fed at the center by a coaxial cable or balanced feedline. Dipoles can be installed horizontally, vertically, or in an inverted-V configuration.
• Vertical Antenna: A vertical antenna is a single-element antenna, typically mounted on the ground or elevated above it with the help of a support structure. It radiates in an omnidirectional pattern, making it suitable for long-distance communication. A ground radial system or counterpoise is often used to improve the antenna’s performance.
• Beam Antenna: A beam antenna, such as a Yagi-Uda or a quad, is a directional antenna with multiple elements. These antennas focus the radiated energy in a specific direction, resulting in higher gain and improved signal strength. They often require a rotator to change the antenna’s direction for optimal performance.
• Loop Antenna: Loop antennas are closed-circuit wire antennas, either in a circular, triangular, or rectangular shape. They can be horizontally or vertically polarized, depending on their orientation. Magnetic loop antennas are a compact version, suitable for limited-space installations, and are known for their efficiency and low-noise characteristics.
• Wire Antennas: Wire antennas, such as the end-fed half-wave (EFHW) and random wire antennas, are simple and cost-effective options for HF communication. They can be deployed in various configurations, such as sloping, inverted-L, or inverted-V, to fit available space and radiation pattern requirements.

Operating Techniques and Etiquette on HF

Operating on HF bands requires adherence to certain techniques and etiquette to ensure efficient and respectful communication:

• Listen First: Always listen before transmitting to avoid interfering with ongoing conversations or causing unnecessary disruptions.
• Frequency Selection: Choose an appropriate frequency based on your license privileges, mode of operation, and band conditions. Follow the band plan and avoid operating on frequencies reserved for specific purposes or modes.
• Signal Reports: Use the RST (Readability, Signal Strength, Tone) system to provide accurate and concise signal reports during QSOs (conversations).
• Q-codes and Abbreviations: Familiarize yourself with common Q-codes and abbreviations used in HF communication, such as QSO (conversation), QSL (acknowledgment), and QRM (interference).
• DX Etiquette: When attempting to make DX contacts, be patient and respectful, follow the instructions of the DX station or the pileup controller, and avoid “stepping” on other operators.
• Logging and QSL Cards: Log your HF contacts, including date, time, frequency, mode, and signal reports. QSL cards can be exchanged to confirm contacts and are often collected as a part of the hobby.

In summary, high-frequency (HF) radio refers to the 3-30 MHz portion of the radio frequency spectrum, enabling long-distance communication through skywave propagation. HF radio is vital in various applications, including amateur radio, where operators can explore different modes of communication, antennas, and techniques to connect with fellow hams worldwide. To ensure successful HF operation, it is essential to follow proper operating techniques and etiquette, adhere to band plans, and maintain a respectful approach to other operators.