Deep Dive: T3B10
The correct answer is C: 3 to 30 MHz. HF (High Frequency) refers to the frequency range from 3 MHz to 30 MHz. This includes popular amateur bands like 80 meters (3.5-4.0 MHz), 40 meters (7.0-7.3 MHz), 20 meters (14.0-14.35 MHz), 15 meters (21.0-21.45 MHz), and 10 meters (28.0-29.7 MHz). HF frequencies are capable of long-distance communications through ionospheric propagation. The ionosphere can refract HF signals, allowing them to travel thousands of miles. HF is where most long-distance (DX) amateur radio communications occur. Technician licensees have limited HF privileges (primarily on 10 meters), while General and Extra class operators have full HF privileges.
Why Other Answers Are Wrong
Option A: Incorrect. 300-3000 MHz is UHF, not HF. HF is much lower. Option B: Incorrect. 30-300 MHz is VHF, not HF. HF is 3-30 MHz. Option D: Incorrect. 300-3000 kHz is 0.3-3 MHz, which is mostly below the HF range. HF is 3-30 MHz.
Exam Tip
HF = 3-30 MHz. Remember: HF (High Frequency) is 3 MHz to 30 MHz. This includes 80m, 40m, 20m, 15m, and 10m bands where long-distance communications are possible.
Memory Aid
**H**F = **3**-**3**0 **M**Hz (think 'HF = 3-30 MHz')
Real-World Example
You're operating on 28.4 MHz, which is in the 10-meter band. This frequency is within the HF range (3-30 MHz). Your 10-meter signal can be refracted by the ionosphere, allowing contacts over thousands of miles, which is characteristic of HF propagation.
Source & Coverage
Question Pool: 2022-2026 Question Pool
Subelement: T3B
Reference: FCC Part 97.303
Key Concepts
Verified Content
Question from the official FCC Technician Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the T3B topic.