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What type of modulation is commonly used for VHF packet radio?

FM or PM is the usual modulation for VHF packet.

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  1. SSB
  2. AM
  3. FM or PM ✔

Why: On VHF, packet radio data is usually sent as audio tones over an ordinary FM radio. That lets hams use the same gear they use for voice.

Huh, didn't know that: The official answer accepts either frequency modulation or phase modulation.

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Why did the packet go FM? It liked a smooth ride for its data.
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References

Answer: FM or PM. On VHF, packet radio data is usually sent as audio tones over an ordinary FM radio. That lets hams use the same gear they use for voice.

  1. NCVEC 2026-2030 Technician Question Pool (Feb 19, 2026 errata) ncvec.org/downloads/2026-2030%20Technician%20Pool%20and%20Syllabus%20Public%20Release%20Feb%2019%202026.pdf
    T8A02 (A) What type of modulation is commonly used for VHF packet radio transmissions? A. FM or PM
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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Ham RadioWhich voice mode is often used for long-distance, weak signal contacts on VHF and UHF?Ham RadioWhich type of modulation is commonly used for VHF and UHF voice repeaters?Ham RadioWhich of these signal types has the narrowest bandwidth?

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