The radio itself. Most CB radios are 4 Watts and under by default. A microphone should come with the radio package. [2] X Research source An antenna. The antenna is the most important part of your radio’s setup. [3] X Research source Fibreglass antennae are often preferable because they are tunable. A SWR meter. A SWR meter will help you measure the radio’s output. This is a vital part of tuning your antenna to the radio. Coaxial cables. A coaxial cable is needed to connect the antenna to the radio. Another cable may be needed if you’re hooking it up to an SWR meter. Batteries. Many CB radios are battery powered (hand-held). When you purchase a CB radio, check what type of batteries it uses and purchase a supply of them.
Generally speaking, a SWR reading of 2. 0:1 (or lower) across all channels is acceptable. [5] X Research source
You can add a quick-release mount to attach the antenna onto the car with. This makes it a lot easier to attach and remove the antenna at will. [6] X Research source
If Channel 1 on your SWR is greater than Channel 40, it means your antenna is too short. Conversely, if Channel 40 is greater than 1, it means it’s too long. When setting up the antenna, you’ll want your SWR levels below 2. 0. You’ll also want Channels 1 and 40 to read identical to one another. [8] X Research source (Edit: Using an amplifier with a CB is HIGHLY ILLEGAL. )
If your CB radio has been manufactured within the last few years, you won’t need to peak it. Newer models don’t have the drift and adjustment problems of older CBs. Any modification to newer models, such as producing higher wattage, usually puts the CB into illegal territory where the FCC is concerned.
Everyone must remain inside with the doors closed while you take readings. On the other hand, if you have a base CB unit, test it in place.
RF gain is a more modern alternative to squelch radio, and it serves roughly the same purpose. [12] X Research source
Check the web for reviews of the store before giving them your radio. It has been reported that some radio stores will fall short when it comes to handling CB radios. [13] X Research source
Ironically, having someone on the other line via cellphone and communicating that way can be helpful if you’re still in the midst of troubleshooting your radio setup.
Be aware of CB “trolls” that occupy radio channels. They use the anonymity of radio to lash offensive slurs and rile people up for amusement. [14] X Research source Channel 9 is declared by the FCC as the official channel for emergencies. If you want to contact with anyone on an official basis, you should read up on some of the codes. They are sometimes specific to a certain region, so it may take specific researching on your part.
