Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2024-2028 Question Pool | Topic: E2A
E2A09E2A

What do the terms “L band” and “S band” specify?

Deep Dive: E2A09

The correct answer is A: The 23- and 13-centimeter bands. What the terms 'L band' and 'S band' specify are the 23- and 13-centimeter bands. L band refers to 23 cm (1.2 GHz), S band refers to 13 cm (2.4 GHz). For amateur radio operators, this is important for satellite operation. Understanding this helps when operating through satellites.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option B: Incorrect. 2-meter and 70-centimeter bands aren't L/S band - L/S band are 23cm and 13cm. 2m/70cm is wrong. Option C: Incorrect. FM and digital store-and-forward systems aren't L/S band - L/S band are frequency bands, not system types. System types aren't bands. Option D: Incorrect. Which sideband to use isn't L/S band - L/S band are frequency bands, not sideband selection. Sideband selection isn't bands.

Exam Tip

L band and S band = 23- and 13-centimeter bands. Think 'L'/'S' band = 'L'onger 'S'horter wavelengths (23cm/13cm). L band refers to 23 cm (1.2 GHz), S band refers to 13 cm (2.4 GHz). Not 2m/70cm, not system types, not sideband - just 23cm and 13cm.

Memory Aid

L band and S band = 23- and 13-centimeter bands. Think 'L'/'S' band = '2'3cm/'1'3cm. L band refers to 23 cm (1.2 GHz), S band refers to 13 cm (2.4 GHz). Important for satellite operation.

Real-World Example

L band and S band: L band refers to the 23-centimeter band (approximately 1.2 GHz), and S band refers to the 13-centimeter band (approximately 2.4 GHz). These are microwave bands used for satellite communications. This is what L band and S band specify - the 23- and 13-centimeter bands.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2024-2028 Question Pool

Subelement: E2A

Reference: 2024-2028 Question Pool · E2 - Operating Procedures

Key Concepts

L band S band 23-centimeter band 13-centimeter band

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC Extra Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the E2A topic.