What are Shortwave Radio Frequencies?

Shortwave radio frequencies are utilized by people and devices all over the world to stay connected to one another and to the collective, available information databases that exist. Shortwave radio frequencies include those which range from 3 to 30 megahertz. This portion of the radio frequency band allows for a communication distance reaching thousands of miles.

Types of Information Communicated Through Shortwave Radio Frequencies

Shortwave radio frequency broadcasts are those which most people are familiar with, whether they know it or not. For instance, individuals who are picking up shortwave radio frequencies will be able to receive music programs, news broadcasts and a variety of other program types from around the world.

As you may have already inferred, there are many uses of the shortwave radio band, but the most commonly known form of communications are those of domestic broadcasting, international broadcasting to foreign audiences as well as the plentiful communications taking place between amateur radio operators.

The Division of Shortwave Frequencies

Actual shortwave radios use particular frequencies, which are divided into what is known as "bands." A frequency's actual wavelength in meters is the determining "band" identification factor. One of the most important things that you can understand about bands is that they each identify a specific range of frequencies. On many older radios as well as many newer radios of the present, there are markings on the radio case to show band and frequency ranges.

To become better acquainted with the specific range of frequencies that particular bands identify, use the following information for a quick start: Band 120m identifies the 2.30-2.50 frequency in megahertz (MHz), Band 90m identifies the 3.20-3.40 frequency in mega hertz (MHz), and so on.