Why do truckers use linear amplilfiers with their CB radios?

I still see stargun junk on semis every once in a while. Sucker born every minute...

 

I had to laugh. On the packaging of one antenna sold at a truck stop:

"TUNED FOR MAXIMUM SWR'S!!!"

Um, you want MINIMUM swr. Not maximum.

 

How many SWRs are there?

 

It depends on how bad your antenna is. Real bad antenna and it can be as high as 8 or 9 to one.

SWR stands for standing wave ratio, its the ratio in percent of how much your radio is putting out to how much your antenna is putting out, or directed power vs reflected power. 1:1 is 100%, you'll never get that. 2:1 is not bad, forgot it's percent equivalent. 8 or 9 to one is like 10% or something, its horrible. That means 90% of what your radio is putting out is being sent right back into the radio.

It's technically a measure of impedance along the antenna circuit but that's way above people's heads so I just give the above description and they at least nod their head. Talk about impedance in an antenna circuit and its deer in the headlights.

This is what burns out the radio.

 

Why are we "outlaws" we just want more power to our radios. Many drivers who can only afford a cheap radio want to add transmission power so they can transmit further, and with more strength in the radio.

 

Because it is illegal to do so. If you are operating outside the law, you are by definition an outlaw.

You can't legally run more power "just because you want to transmit further."

 

So most people need an amp, eh?

 

There are alot of things in this world that are illegal, immoral, but we do it anyways. It is my choice to run an amplifier on my radios, and i can afford it. This is what makes this country great, so if one chooses to call me an outlaw, renegade, or so on. So be it (sticks n stones).

 

No ! as not everyone can afford them, and it is a personal choice to purchase, and use one.

 

That all depends on it whether or not two-way communication is required.
The other day I was listening to a stock Cobra 29 and once he got Beyond 30 miles he was unable to hear me, Although I could still hear him talking.