Two-way Radio Frequencies - Understanding the basics.
What is a Frequency?
In technical terms, a frequency is the rate at which a switch, called an oscillator, inside a radio turns on and off. To learn more on frequencies and early radios check out: The Evolution of Radio.
You had your first exposure to choosing a radio frequency, when you tuned to a specific number on your radio dial like 530 AM (530 kHz) or 103.3 FM (103.3 MHz). Two-way radios operate using frequencies also. When you buy a radio, you can tune the channels of your radio to the different frequencies permitted for that type of radio and your FCC license, if you have one. Not all radios that you can purchase require an FCC license FCC license information.
To learn more about FCC license requirements, see the sections on FCC licensing and radio service bands available to the public FCC licensing information, or you may call 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322). For more on the science behind two-way radios, click two-way radio science.