PMR 446 radio equipment is intended to be used on collective frequencies shared by multiple users without coordination. The PMR 446 band, harmonised throughout Europe, meets these criteria and its use is not subject to licensing. There is a wide range of "PMR 446" equipment on the market which is intended exclusively to use the PMR 446 frequency band. Although the PMR 446 frequency band can be used without a licence, some rules are nevertheless required so that all users enjoy the same conditions and they do not interfere with each other excessively. These rules have been concretised in the harmonized EN 300 296, EN 300 113-2, EN 301 166 Standards and in the RIR0507-35 Interface Regulations.
PMR equipment with a programmed PMR 446 channel
The use of the PMR frequencies is subject to licensing. The technical requirements applicable to PMR are not entirely identical to those applicable to PMR 446; they differ in terms of the antenna (which must be built-in for PMR 446, i.e. not interchangeable) and in relation to the maximum effective radiated power.
In principle, only the channels or frequencies covered by the licence may be programmed on PMR equipment. However, in Switzerland and in the Principality of Liechtenstein, the corresponding channels spaced between 446.000 and 446.200 MHz in the PMR 446 frequency band may also be used by PMR equipment which does not have a built-in antenna, provided that the latter comply with the requirements set out in RIR0507-35. The maximum radiated power on these channels is 0.5 W with a bandwidth of 6.25 / 12.5 kHz.
PMR446 relays, gateways and fixed stations are not authorised.
Amateur radio equipment
Radiocommunications equipment intended for amateur radio operators is not authorised to transmit on the PMR 446 frequencies. In fact, the requirements for amateur radio equipment are set out in the EN 301 783-2 Standard, and these are not compatible with the requirements of PMR 446 (for example in terms of frequency stability, power on adjacent channels, interference radiation, etc.).
Last modification 16.12.2021
