What To Look For In A CB Radio?

Mobile. Decking the rig out.

 

Been looking into a few mobile hams but not sure really what I want to do. I can go 6m+2m+70cm or I can just do 6m or 2m but might run into trouble hitting someones emergency freq's. the possibilities are endless but I don't want to be rude by talking to europe on someones emergency band, of course I could bypass all of that by going CW, can you imagine having a straight key on the dash of the truck?! LMAO

 

I'm out brother, wish you all the best of luck, stay safe.

 

You really don't want just 6m. It's a rather dead band 99% of the time. 2m only can be ok but it doesn't have the range. Or it's not used in all areas of the country. For just general use a Dual bander like the Yaesu FT-7900 would be a much better choice. So the more bands you can work the better.

Also I would ditch the Dual antennas. They really are not going to give you anymore than the one.

 

Already did per your precious suggestion. I put a monster 5' 1/4 wave antenna on. My reception range is phenomenal. I'm hearing barefoot radios around 5-6 miles regularly. Love it.

 

It sounds like you're going to be happy with your radio. How's your new toy working so far?

 

Man. I tell you what. It's great when you're in a congested area and can always get an answer, rather than always being washed out. It's also great to ask for something on east bound I26 in Henderson county NC and get people on east bound 40 answering you. I've learned to specify what interstate I'm asking for.

 

SOUNDS GOOD TO ME! Sounds like it may just be working.

73

 

As a former electronics technician for UPS (Uninterrupted Power Systems) and a serious ARRL (Antenna Radio Relay League) member, I find the best advice is in doing research.

A lot of drivers will recommend radios and antenna systems (I see one even asks if you have a FCC license then describes his illegal rig).

The CB Radio operates on the 11 meter band and transmits through a tuned 'antenna'. Why do I put that word in quotations?... because any wire or piece of metal, if tuned to the operating frequency of the radio will be seen as an antenna by the transmitter (radio).

Most brands are acceptable - even the cheaper ones (they all have to meet FCC minimum requirements). Some will perform additional and perhaps more desireable based on personal preference and, if you want NOAA (National Oceanographic and Aeronautics Administration) weather reports, radios are available with this option. It is a plus for a driver to have weather reports as well as traffic.

Contrary to some advice given, any coax of any length is NOT recommended (read the ARRL manual, they are trimmed to wavelengths based on frequencies used - any HAM operator will tell you that). Twin antenna, as often chosen by commercial drivers requires an optimum separation of antennas by no less than 8 feet, easily accomplished on big rigs and the coax used is co-phased RG8X mini 8 or RG8/U are two types generally used in vehicles.

Some basic rules of wave propagation that will confirm what I've said:

1. The frequency of our CB signal is 27.4 MHz (somewhere around the middle of the CB band).​

2. The wavelength (in feet) of our CB signal is 36 feet. (Wavelength = Speed of Wave / Frequency)
​

3. A half wavelength is 18' and a quarter wavelength is 9' (or 108").​

4. The CB signal is an RF sine wave, which rises above and drops below a zero reference point once each full cycle (or a complete wavelength).
​

To get the most efficiency from your radio transmitter, it is desirable to keep everything on the transmission side (antenna) of your radio 'in tune' with the frequency on which you plan to operate so, having a harmonic of the wavelength on coax will have a positive effect on overall operation (despite claims to the alternative). How do I know?... I installed antennas on base stations and vehicles for a good many years before ever getting involved in driving a truck.

I don't know if I'm only confusing you more or helping you with your question but these are the facts.

Pick up the available ARRL handbook and read about wave propagation if you are confused.

 

" Contrary to some advice given, any coax of any length is NOT recommended (read the ARRL manual, they are trimmed to wavelengths based on frequencies used - any HAM operator will tell you that). "

BULL TWINKYS .......

Please show me this ......Coax does NOT need to be cut the ANTENNA is how you tune a system ...
If your cutting coax all your doing is moving your meter up and down the voltage point on the coax THIS IS WHY IT'S CALLED VSWR .......

BTW ....

Life member ARRL and ARRL member for 45+ years
Member QCWA, OOTC and SMIRK ( 6 meters )
Active HF, VHF and UHF