Basic rules of 2M communication for newb's like me...

[crawler#976]

Thanks for the info! Here's the AZ Band Plan:

http://www.azfreqcoord.org/bp/144bp.html

** Use of Simplex Frequencies

The most popular frequencies in the simplex subbands fall on even 20kHz frequencies. This minimizes interference from adjacent operations. It is good operating practice and strongly recommended to utilize these defacto "channels", but operation anywhere in the simplex subband is legal, as long as you do not cause interference to an ongoing conversation on a nearby frequency. These frequencies, like most Amateur frequencies are to be utilized on a non interfering basis to on-going conversations. Amateur frequencies are always "first come, first served" with the exception of Coordinated Repeaters in the Repeater Subbands. Also, remember that no one "owns" a frequency. When you complete the NCVEC Form 605 (or any FCC Amateur Form, you agree to the following statement: "I waive any claim to the use of any particular frequency regardless of prior use by license or otherwise;" This is detailed in 97.101.

 

[DaveInDenver]

Thanks for the info! Here's the AZ Band Plan:

http://www.azfreqcoord.org/bp/144bp.html

The spacing here in Colorado is also 15KHz and it's probably the more common band plan layout, but there are plenty of 20KHz. It's pretty easy to make sure you're following the local band plan.

You can get in touch with the coordinator for the area you're visiting. These are the people who are responsible for organizing the band usage for an area. They are not officials with the FCC or ARRL, just volunteers who get everyone to agree on a plan.

http://www.arrl.org/nfcc/coordinators.htm

The easiest way to find out is to get on the air and ask. Make a call on the one of the FM calling frequencies or ask on a local repeater. Here's a few, although most bands have a calling frequency, so this is not all of them.

6m calling freq is 52.525
2m calling freq is 146.520 (National Simplex)
1.25m calling freq is 223.500
70cm calling freq is 446.000