UHF channels are typically given higher channel numbers, like the US arrangement with VHF channels (initially) 1 to 13, and UHF channels (initially) numbered 14 to 83.
Terrestrial television channels are divided into two bands: the VHF band which comprises channels 2 through 13 and occupies frequencies between 54 and 216 MHz, and the UHF band, which comprises channels 14 through 36 and occupies frequencies between 470 and 700 MHz.
UHF signals cover broadcast channels 14-36. Because their wavelength is shorter, they are the most reliant on having a clear line of sight between your antenna and the nearby transmitter tower. Their short wavelength also means that they bounce more easily off interfering objects in their path to your antenna.
UHF stands for Ultra High Frequency and describes transmissions in the range of 300MHz and 3GHz. UHF channels can be found on older TVs on channels 14-69 (or 14-83 if you have a really old TV. The FCC took the space for channels 70-83 and used them for cordless phones and other consumer accesories.)
Australia uses the VHF/UHF PAL B/G television system. In many regional areas, networks broadcast only in the UHF band (PAL G). In capital cities, most networks broadcast in both the VHF band (PAL B) and the UHF band (PAL G).
In the US and Canada, the VHF television band occupies frequencies between 54 and 216 MHz and the UHF band between 470 and 608 MHz. In general, VHF channels are numbered 2 to 13 and UHF channels 14 to 36. However, the channel's physical broadcast frequency is not always reflected by the channel number you see.
The majority of digital TV stations currently broadcast in the UHF band, both because VHF was already filled largely with analog TV when the digital facilities were built and because of severe issues with impulse noise on digital low-VHF channels.
UHF Channels
Channels 31-38 and 71-78: Duplex channels (input). Channels 5 and 35: Duplex channels strictly used for emergency communications. Channels 9, 12-17, 19-21 24-28, 30, 39, 49-60, 64-70, 79 and 80: General chat channels, simplex use. Channel 10: 4WD Clubs or Convoys and National Parks.
For TV aerial reception and terrestrial TV services the Ultra high frequency (UHF) band is used. The UHF is the frequency band between 300Mhz-3Ghz, within this band we have the digital TV signals and the satellite Intermediate frequency band.
UHF radio waves are smaller than VHF.
This means that UHF frequencies have smaller waves that produce a wider reception. While VHF has longer wave lengths. UHF are more likely to pass barriers like rocks and trees easier. VHF range is reduced due to signal degradation with barriers such as trees or hills.
How to Watch UHF. You are able to stream UHF by renting or purchasing on Amazon Instant Video, Vudu, and Google Play. You are able to stream UHF for free on Pluto or Tubi.
Antennas for Receiving DTV
To receive DTV signals from all stations in the area, your antenna needs to be able to receive both VHF channels (channels 2-13) and UHF channels (channels 14-36). Some antennas only provide good reception of VHF or UHF channels, but not both.
What is the digital switchover? In parts of Australia, TV is broadcast in both analog and digital signals. The 'switch' refers to how the analog signals are being phased out (or switched off) across the country from now until the end of 2013. This means that Australian TV will be broadcast using digital-only signals.
Always keep an eye on your rear vision mirrors and be aware of who is coming up behind you and immediately tune the UHF to Channel 40 so you can hear any truck drivers trying to talk to you.
UHF CB band plan
ACMA originally intended to make older 40 channel UHF radios on the 25 kHz spacing illegal to use from June 2017. However, in February 2017, it reversed this decision after determining that the two systems were working well alongside each other.
UHF vs VHF – Advantages and Disadvantages
VHF, since it tends to bend with the curvature of the earth more than UHF, is ideal for outdoor applications where distance is the primary user need.
Ultra-high frequency (UHF) radio is a great alternative for road users to communicate with each other and emergency services. Emergencies can happen quickly in the bush. One minute, you can be driving along happily and the next you can be stranded on a deserted track with no other vehicle to help with recovery.
You may be too far from the broadcast location, or something physically blocks the signals. The antenna could be in a less-than-ideal place or facing the wrong direction. Or, in some cases, the antenna might not be strong enough.
If you are wondering how to get free to air channels without an antenna, or if it is possible, you'll be pleased to know that you can do so by watching content over the web using your digital TV. While you won't need an antenna, you will need an internet connection that is set up to a smart TV.
Poor quality or older antenna cables can lose television signal strength, contributing to reception issues. Ensure you're using quad-shield coaxial antenna cables (RG6 type). Check if the issue occurs on all channels or just one. Some TVs will display signal strength and quality information for each channel.