What Is 1.25m band

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Last updated: April 11, 2026

Quick Answer: The 1.25m band, also known as the 220 MHz or 222 MHz band, is a VHF radio frequency allocation spanning 220–225 MHz primarily used for amateur radio communications in North America. Available on a primary basis in ITU Region 2 (the Americas), it features calling frequencies at 223.500 MHz for FM simplex and 222.100 MHz for SSB/CW, with standard 20 kHz channel spacing between operators.

Key Facts

Frequency range: 222–225 MHz for amateur use (219–220 MHz for digital forwarding only) in the U.S. and Canada
Calling frequencies: 223.500 MHz for FM simplex and 222.100 MHz for SSB/CW worldwide
Channel spacing: 20 kHz standard spacing between channels for organized communication
Repeater allocation: Inputs 222.32–223.28 MHz, outputs 223.92–224.98 MHz with simplex 223.42–223.9 MHz
Regional availability: Primary allocation in ITU Region 2 (Americas); unavailable in ITU Regions 1 and 3

Overview

The 1.25-meter band, commonly referred to as the 220 MHz or 222 MHz band, is a segment of the VHF (Very High Frequency) radio spectrum allocated internationally for amateur radio communications. The term "1.25-meter" derives from the wavelength of radio waves in this frequency range—approximately 1.25 meters at the center frequency. This band represents a unique middle ground between the more popular 2-meter band (146 MHz) and the 70-centimeter UHF band (420 MHz), offering distinct propagation characteristics and operational advantages for ham radio enthusiasts.

In the United States and Canada, the 1.25-meter band officially comprises frequencies from 220 to 225 MHz, though secondary use of 219–220 MHz is allocated for fixed digital message forwarding systems. The band was formally established through the FCC's 1988 220 MHz Allocation Order, which reallocated the 220–222 MHz segment to private and federal government land-mobile use while preserving 222–225 MHz exclusively for amateur radio. This allocation reflects the band's growing importance in the amateur radio community and its role in emergency communications, technical experimentation, and recreational radio operations.

How It Works

The 1.25-meter band operates under standardized frequency plans that enable efficient spectrum sharing among numerous users across North America. Here are the key operational elements:

Calling Frequencies: In the U.S. and Canada, 223.500 MHz serves as the primary FM simplex calling frequency where operators can initiate contact, while 222.100 MHz is designated for SSB (Single Sideband) and CW (Continuous Wave) mode calling. These standardized frequencies ensure operators can reliably find each other when establishing communications.
Channel Spacing: The 1.25-meter band uses 20 kHz spacing between channels, which is narrower than the 2-meter band's 25 kHz spacing. This tighter spacing allows more operators to share the available spectrum while maintaining adequate separation to prevent interference between adjacent channels.
Repeater Allocations: Repeater inputs occupy the frequency range from 222.32 to 223.28 MHz, with corresponding repeater outputs between 223.92 and 224.98 MHz. Simplex operation for direct peer-to-peer communication is allocated between 223.42 and 223.9 MHz, providing dedicated channels for non-repeater users.
Data and Digital Modes: The 219–220 MHz segment is reserved exclusively for fixed digital message forwarding systems, accommodating packet radio, APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System), and other digital communication modes. This separate allocation prevents interference between analog voice and digital data transmissions.
Modulation Types: The band supports multiple modulation modes including FM (Frequency Modulation) for voice communications, SSB for long-distance propagation, and CW for skilled operators. This flexibility allows users to select the mode best suited to their communication objectives and equipment capabilities.

Key Comparisons

Band	Frequency Range	Wavelength	Primary Use	Regional Availability
2-Meter Band	144–148 MHz	~2 meters	Popular amateur radio, local communications	Worldwide (ITU Regions 1, 2, 3)
1.25-Meter Band	220–225 MHz (222–225 primary)	~1.25 meters	Amateur radio, experimentation, emergency comms	Americas only (ITU Region 2)
70-Centimeter Band	420–450 MHz	~70 centimeters	UHF amateur radio, short-range communications	Worldwide (ITU Regions 1, 2, 3)
Band Characteristic	Lower frequency = better range	Longer = lower attenuation	Higher frequency = more channels	Global allocation varies by region

Why It Matters

Expanded Spectrum Access: The 1.25-meter band provides amateur radio operators with an additional 5 MHz of spectrum (222–225 MHz primary allocation) beyond the 2-meter and 70-centimeter bands. This expanded access accommodates growing interest in amateur radio and reduces congestion on more heavily used frequencies, enabling clearer communications and supporting more simultaneous conversations.
Unique Propagation: Operating at 220–225 MHz, the 1.25-meter band exhibits propagation characteristics intermediate between the popular 2-meter and 70-centimeter bands. Its frequency range provides better range than UHF while offering more directivity than VHF, making it particularly valuable for certain geographic regions and propagation conditions.
Emergency Communications: The 1.25-meter band plays a critical role in emergency preparedness and disaster response throughout North America. Amateur radio operators use this spectrum to establish communication networks when primary infrastructure fails, providing essential connectivity for emergency management agencies, search and rescue operations, and community disaster relief.
Technical Innovation: The band attracts experimenters and innovators developing new amateur radio technologies, antennas, and repeater systems. Its middle-ground frequency position makes it ideal for exploring propagation phenomena, testing equipment designs, and advancing the technical capabilities of the amateur radio community.

The 1.25-meter band represents an important segment of the amateur radio spectrum, offering North American operators unique opportunities for experimentation, community building, and emergency communications. As amateur radio continues to evolve and attract new practitioners, the 220–225 MHz band remains a valuable resource for advancing the art and science of radio communications. Its standardized channel plans, established calling frequencies, and dedicated repeater allocations have created a stable environment where both experienced operators and newcomers can participate in this vibrant community of radio enthusiasts.