6 meter frequencies
These are the frequencies where 6 meter activity concentrates. Band plans differ between countries and regions, so treat this as a practical guide and check your national band plan for the exact rules that apply to you.
Digital modes
| Frequency (MHz) | Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 50.313 | FT8 | Main worldwide FT8 frequency. The busiest spot on the band. |
| 50.323 | FT8, intercontinental DX | Increasingly used for intercontinental contacts. Avoid it for contacts within your own continent. |
| 50.318 | FT4 | Default FT4 frequency in common software. |
| 50.293 | WSPR | Low-power propagation beacons. |
| 50.260 | MSK144 | Meteor scatter, common in North America. |
For intercontinental FT8 involving Europe on 50.313 and 50.323 MHz, the UK Six Metre Group recommends that European stations transmit in the periods starting at 00 and 30 seconds past each minute, with Asian and North American stations using 15 and 45 seconds (UKSMG).
Voice and CW (North America)
| Frequency (MHz) | Use |
|---|---|
| 50.000 to 50.100 | CW and beacons |
| 50.100 | CW calling |
| 50.105 to 50.115 | DX window: listen for DX, no local contacts |
| 50.110 | DX calling frequency |
| 50.125 | National SSB calling frequency |
| 51.100 to 52.000 | FM simplex and packet |
| 52.525 | National FM simplex calling frequency |
| 52.000 to 54.000 | FM repeater inputs (52 to 53) and outputs (53 to 54) |
Source: Radio Amateurs of Canada 6 meter band plan, which matches common practice in the United States.
Europe, Africa and the Middle East
IARU Region 1 band plans place CW and beacons at the bottom of the band and the main SSB activity around 50.150 MHz, with FT8 on 50.313 MHz as elsewhere. Several countries allow only part of 50 to 52 MHz or limit power. The UK Six Metre Group publishes the current Region 1 plan.
Beacons
Propagation beacons transmit continuously, usually in CW, from fixed locations. Most sit between 50.000 and 50.080 MHz. Listening across this segment is one of the oldest and most reliable ways to detect an opening: if you can hear a beacon 1,500 km away, you can probably work stations in that direction.
Etiquette: Keep local contacts out of the DX window, keep FT8 contacts within your own continent off 50.323 MHz, and move off busy calling frequencies once contact is made.