What is the typical bandwidth of a single-sideband amateur signal?

The typical bandwidth of a single-sideband (SSB) amateur signal is generally around 3-6 kHz. This bandwidth allows for effective communication while ensuring that the signal can fit within the allocated frequency spectrum designated for amateur radio use. SSB is a more efficient mode of modulation compared to amplitude modulation (AM), as it transmits only one sideband (either upper or lower) and suppresses the carrier frequency. This results in narrower bandwidth consumption, which is crucial for maximizing the number of conversations that can occur simultaneously on a given frequency range.

The 3-6 kHz bandwidth in SSB provides enough room for the voice frequencies that typically range from about 300 Hz to 3 kHz, while also allowing for additional space to accommodate variations in voice characteristics and modulation. This balance between clarity and efficient use of the spectrum is a key reason why SSB is a popular choice among amateur radio operators for voice communication, especially on HF bands where crowding can be an issue.

Options with bandwidths below or above this range, such as 1-2 kHz or 2-3 kHz, do not allow sufficient space for voice communication fidelity and might not handle the full spectrum of human voice adequately. Conversely, bandwidths