UHF-VHF  Radio quipment

There are certain physical, regulatory, and economic differences between VHF and UHF that one needs to evaluate before choosing between the two –

Wavelength

UHF radio waves have much shorter wavelengths from 12 to 24 inches compared to VHF radio waves ranging from 9 to 20 feet. A few of the implications for UHF wireless microphone systems are much shorter antennas lengths, decreased radio wave transmission through both the air and other non-metallic materials, such as walls and human bodies, resulting in a significantly less transmission range for equivalent radiated power.

Regulations on Equipment

For FM signals in the UHF band, greater occupied bandwidth is allowed. This effectively permits greater deviation for potentially wider frequency range and wider dynamic range of the audio signal. Transmitter power allowed in also more which facilitates larger number of wireless microphone systems to be operated simultaneously. 

Cost

Current UHF systems cost substantially more than comparable VHF systems. This cost differential applies to antennas, cables, and other accessories as well as to the basic transmitter and receiver. 

Interference

The main advantage of UHF operation is that there is less chance of interference. Since there are considerably fewer UHF wireless systems in use at present, the chances of this type of interference are reduced.

UHF radios generally offer better building penetration and therefore are ideally suited for indoors as well as for areas of high building density (cities). Where the application requires a combination of indoor and outdoor use, a UHF radio is preferable. 

• Television broadcasting
• Cell phones
• Satellite communication including GPS
• Personal radio services including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, walkie-talkies, cordless phones etc. 

VHF radios are better suited for areas where there is vegetation, where the signal can pass through objects. For this reason VHF radios are ideal for outdoor use. 

• FM radio broadcasting
• Television broadcasting
• Radio modems
• Amateur radio
• Marine communications
• Air traffic control communications
• Air navigation systems (e.g. VOR, DME & ILS)