Sep. 30, 2024
Citizens Band radios (CBs) are a time-tested type of two-way radio communication used for short-distance, person-to-person voice communication. CB radio users operate on 40 frequency channels in the 27 MHz band, sending only one transmission at a time per channel. These easy-to-use radios are especially popular among truckers and in remote areas that lack reliable cell service.
The components of a CB radio are simple: a few essential knobs, a transceiver microphone, a digital display, and a coaxial cable to connect the antenna. But before you buy, it&#;s a good idea to understand the types of CBs and how they&#;re used.
Types of CB Radios
Mobile CB radios are the most popular because they connect drivers who exchange important information while on the road. Truck drivers, off-roaders, and RV owners all use mobile CB models.
The chassis comes in different sizes (generally about 8&#;x2&#;x8&#;), connects to the vehicle battery, and is installed either on the dashboard or floor. Be sure to measure your vehicle&#;s interior so you can choose a model that fits well. Mobile CB radios vary in style and price from basic radios to expensive models with upgrades like an SWR meter, instant channel 9, a public address system or Multi-Band capability. As a general rule, mobile CB radios have a better receiver and clearer sound than the smaller, more portable versions.
All-In-Handset compact CB radios are ergonomically designed with the controls built into the handset to allow for one-hand control. Because the controls are in the handset, these units have a larger microphone and a smaller base unit. The unit usually plugs into the vehicle&#;s 12V accessory socket and weighs about two pounds. Their compact size and easy installation make them a good choice for installation in smaller vehicles.
A Base Station CB radio is operated from a stationary location, such as a home or office, and is powered through an AC wall outlet. Base stations have a built-in AC power supply and the user interface is designed for desk use. They typically have more features than other types of CB radios so they tend to be more expensive. These high-end models are ideal for both business owners and hobbyists.
To ensure optimum performance, these CB radios require a base station antenna with a ground plane kit. These kits have radials extending up to six feet long off the base to improve the performance of the base station.
Handheld CB radios are a mobile transceiver similar in appearance to an FRS walkie-talkie but with much greater range and more channels. GMRS radios are also handheld, but they require an FCC license and are primarily used for outdoor and worksite needs. Handheld CB radios offer flexibility for different situations because they are compact and portable. They&#;re ideal for traveling by foot, horseback, motorcycle, or bicycle. Additionally, the small size makes them convenient for smaller vehicles or when a permanent CB radio installation is not practical.
Handheld CB radios can be converted for use in vehicles by connecting a magnet mount or fixed-mount CB antenna; simply remove the radio&#;s rubber antenna and attach a connector for the car-mounted antenna. They usually have a 12V auxiliary adapter plug for the vehicle&#;s accessory socket in addition to battery-power. Some models have rechargeable battery packs or incorporate rechargeable AA batteries. Keep in mind that they&#;re usually limited to about 2 watts of power.
Be the first to get exclusive product specials and ham radio insights directly from the Stryker Team.
Common Uses of CB Radios
Even with the widespread use of cell phones, 40-channel CB radios continue to have a loyal following because they don&#;t rely on cell towers and are easy to use. CBs are the go-to option for a variety of situations where communication is important.
: CB radios work in areas without cell service, so many off-road vehicle groups require members to have a CB radio. Users can monitor the CB for emergency warnings and get advice on navigating specific trails. Hikers appreciate the radio&#;s ability to request help when needed.
: Truckers use CB radios for real-time traffic alerts such as crashes, construction, gridlock, or police activity. CB radio users can notify trucks when it&#;s safe to pass or merge, helping to prevent confusion during heavy traffic.
: A CB radio keeps you informed about weather alerts, storms, environmental catastrophes, and other threats.
Because cell service is virtually non-existent on the open water, boaters depend on marine radios and CB radios to keep them safe; multi-band radios can access marine channels as well.
CB radios work in remote areas, allowing communication between groups.
: CB radios will function in lousy weather or mountainous terrain. Easy communication between a group of vehicles traveling together makes them popular with RV travelers, motorcyclists, and truck drivers.
CB Radio Features To Consider
While anyone can get started with a base model CB radio, more experienced users look for full-feature radios. To find the best CB radio for your needs, consider the following features:
One of the most important radio features to consider is the size of the transceiver. CB radios range in size from small, hand-held portable units to large, full-chassis base units. It&#;s important to consider where your radio will be mounted and to choose a CB radio model that will fit well in your space. For example, Jeep and off-road vehicle owners usually have little room in their cabs and tend to use smaller radios. RV and large-truck owners with ample room have a wider range of radio models to choose from.
Durability is a key factor for CB radios that will be used outdoors or on the road. Be sure to select a CB radio model with high durability ratings as well as compatibility with secure mounts.
All CB radios operate on the same 40 channels within the 27 MHz band; however, there are three different modes that vary in quality and range. You can switch between modes, but both the sending and receiving CB radios must be using the same mode. As you get started shopping for a CB radio, it&#;s important to choose which combination of modes works best for you.
Traditional CB radios transmit in AM mode, so base models come standard with AM mode. From there you can add FM and/or SSB mode.
FM mode is an option available only since when the FCC began permitting the use of FM CB frequencies. This mode provides close-range higher sound quality because it locks onto the strongest signal and decreases background noise and interference. This mode is easy to use and an affordable upgrade from AM only.
CBs equipped with Single Sideband mode (SSB) use either the Upper Sideband (USB) or Lower Sideband (LSB) of the AM range to enhance transmission clarity and range. Radios equipped with single sideband (SSB) also have an additional control called a &#;voice lock&#; or &#;clarifier,&#; which is adjusted to clarify signals received when using SSB. You may want the &#;Frequency counter&#; feature when you are operating on single sideband mode and need to adjust the frequency on which your radio is receiving or transmitting. An SSB CB radio offers more power and greater range than AM mode, so expect to pay more for this feature.
Multi-band CB radios allow users to receive communications on multiple bands because they pick up a broader spectrum of radio waves. Multi-band radio includes VHF, UHF, CB, HAM, AM, and FM all in one unit for a versatile communication system that picks up shortwave, emergency, aviation, and marine bands. Multi-band radios are excellent for emergencies when listening to public safety communications is critical. Most multi-band radios operate as plug-in models, but some are designed to be portable and run on batteries. In addition to using the CB channels, amateur radio users who are licensed with the FCC can broadcast on Ham radio channels.
SWR meters measure your radio transmission&#;s standing wave ratio (SWR) to ensure your antenna is working properly. This can be a convenient, built-in feature of your radio or an add-on. The SWR meter measures if there are discrepancies between the transmitted and reflected signals, helping to prevent damage and improve your signal when installing and tuning your radio antenna. While a separate SWR meter is best for tuning a CB antenna, many CB radios have a built-in meter to help with troubleshooting.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather alert feature transmits a unique tone and the CB radio sounds an alarm to warn of the danger. The National Weather Service will send out alarm tones that interrupt your channel and even come through when your radio is off (provided it is still connected to power). An AM/FM CB radio with NOAA weather alerts is one of the most popular configurations for CBs.
On a CB radio, channel scan finds an active channel where people are talking and automatically stops there. This safety feature keeps the driver&#;s eyes on the road while searching for conversations. This is particularly helpful because certain CB channels have designated uses that are predominantly for the benefit of truckers.
Channel 9: emergency channel for communication about first response and accidents
Channel 19: communication about traffic, speed traps, etc.
Channel 6: truckers use this channel to talk about traffic and road conditions
Channel 10: communication with weigh stations and inspection places
Noise interference can easily ruin your experience with your CB radio. There are multiple features to help limit background noise and improve sound quality, including squelch control, RF gain, NB/ANL, or a Hi-Cut filter.
Radio operators can turn up squelch control to quiet background static, only letting through strong, direct signals. Be careful not to turn squelch too high, or it may block wanted signals that happen to be weak or far away.
RF gain is similar to squelch control, but acts as a sensitivity filter. RF gain controls your radio&#;s ability to receive distant or close by signals, which in turn affects the level of noise your radio picks up.
The Noise Blanker (NB) and Automatic Noise Limiter (ANL) are features included in most mobile CB radios, and are necessities for operating a radio in a truck. NB/ANL are noise filters, reducing interference from outside sources such as power lines, ignition noise, inverters, or engine noise.
The hi-cut filter is another way of reducing static by removing high frequencies that make up a significant portion of white noise. Cutting higher frequencies also improves the clarity and sound quality when receiving communications.
Radios with bluetooth capabilities allow for hands-free conversations through your CB radio using your cell or bluetooth headset. This feature reduces the risk of distracted driving, while still letting you communicate with family and friends or make work-related calls.
Color LCD display is a key feature that comes into play when driving at night, during bad weather, or any kind of dark driving conditions. Backlighting makes the radio screen easy to read, and some radios come with backlit knobs so drivers can easily identify where to make adjustments to their radio. Some radios have customizable night and day color display settings. Even if your radio doesn&#;t come with illuminated controls, you can install a lighted radio knob kit to make it easy to operate your radio in the dark.
This feature allows you to hear your voice when you transmit so that you can adjust volume and clarity. Your voice will come either through the CB speaker or an external speaker.
You have been given the responsibility of buying two-way radios for your business. You have looked at the marketplace and see a multitude of manufacturers and two-way radio solutions and are even more confused than when you started. You now find yourself asking a huge range of questions: how do you even start looking, how do you stay on budget, and what do you even look for?
We have put this simple 12-point guide together to navigate you through the process of matching your business communication needs to our range of Icom two-way radio solutions. Following these tips will make the process much faster and simpler for you and avoid frustrations.We have put this simple 12-point guide together to navigate you through the process of matching your business communication needs to our range of Icom two-way radio solutions. Following these tips will make the process much faster and simpler for you and avoid frustrations.
Let&#;s get started.... 1. Why should I choose two-way radios for my organisation? Hopefully, you will have already answered this question; you know that you need to keep in touch with your staff. You know you want an efficient, simple, effective solution that you can control and easily manage.Hopefully, you will have already answered this question; you know that you need to keep in touch with your staff. You know you want an efficient, simple, effective solution that you can control and easily manage.
Two-way radio can do all that. Depending on your needs and the applications you use, they can increase safety, improve productivity, provide better customer or employee satisfaction, and make you more profitable.Two-way radio can do all that. Depending on your needs and the applications you use, they can increase safety, improve productivity, provide better customer or employee satisfaction, and make you more profitable.
Two-way radio is a very flexible form of communication. It can provide simple one-to-one communication between a small group of users or increase the number of channels so you could have one channel for everyone, one for management, one for security, one for cleaning and so on. You can use each channel like an intercom system that lets you call individual people or groups instead of broadcasting a message to everyone.Two-way radio is a very flexible form of communication. It can provide simple one-to-one communication between a small group of users or increase the number of channels so you could have one channel for everyone, one for management, one for security, one for cleaning and so on. You can use each channel like an intercom system that lets you call individual people or groups instead of broadcasting a message to everyone.
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit HUAXUN.
Some radios have scanning capability, so your radios will only pick up conversation for the channels you have programmed.Some radios have scanning capability, so your radios will only pick up conversation for the channels you have programmed.
Depending on your needs, you can build a complex radio system integrating not just radio communication but security monitoring via GPS or CCTV or coverage between groups over a wide geographical area using the internet.Depending on your needs, you can build a complex radio system integrating not just radio communication but security monitoring via GPS or CCTV or coverage between groups over a wide geographical area using the internet.
3. Who will use them?The great thing about two-way radios is that they are easy to use, and anyone in the organisation can use them with little training. So deploy radios to groups of staff, their managers, etc, and remember that the radio system is easily expandable. As the need arises, just add additional handsets. Two-way radios are ideal for security staff, farm workers, office staff, shop watch, shift workers, production line inspectors, playground monitors&#;the list is endless
4. Where will I use the two-way radios?Look where you want to use them, in buildings, out onsite in vehicles, perimeter patrolling, define your needs and then get your local Icom dealer to advise on the best way to give you coverage of that area. A quick &#;rule of thumb' is that VHF travels furthest outdoors, whereas UHF is better for local onsite use (within buildings etc), but take advice from your dealer for the best solution.
It is true that in some cases, people use mobile phones in place of two-way radios. However, there are good reasons to use two-way radio for your business:It is true that in some cases, people use mobile phones in place of two-way radios. However, there are good reasons to use two-way radio for your business:
&#; When you want to call someone on a mobile , at a minimum, you have to press a speed dial button and wait for a connection. Between the dialling and the time delay of the person on the other end answering, some time can go by (if they answer). With a two-way radio, you press a button and start talking. In an emergency, this speed could be critical.&#; When you want to call someone on a mobile , at a minimum, you have to press a speed dial button and wait for a connection. Between the dialling and the time delay of the person on the other end answering, some time can go by (if they answer). With a two-way radio, you press a button and start talking. In an emergency, this speed could be critical.&#; You can talk to multiple users at once.&#; There is no monthly contract with two-way radios. You never have to worry about exceeding your allotted time as you would do with a mobile .&#; Icom radios are built to military specification, meaning they will work in wet environments or even after they are dropped on concrete. Most mobile phones are not built to this standard.&#; Two-way radios continue to work in natural disasters or major security incidents. Even if mobile phones work, the tower can get overloaded with everyone trying to make calls so your call may not go through.&#; Two-way radios stay on-site at the end of the day so they can be used by shift or night workers.&#; There may be places in your business where mobile phones don&#;t work. Two-way radios can reach all areas of your company when repeaters are installed.
Two-way radios are available in four types: handheld, vehicle-mounted mobile, desktop base station and repeater base station.Two-way radios are available in four types: handheld, vehicle-mounted mobile, desktop base station and repeater base station.
&#; Handheld two-way radios are the walkie-talkie type of radios you see people carrying around.&#; Handheld two-way radios are the walkie-talkie type of radios you see people carrying around.&#; Vehicle-mounted mobile two-way radios mount in a car or truck, using the vehicle's battery for power. They will achieve better range by using an externally mounted antenna on the vehicle.&#; Desktop base station radios use mains power and can be connected to a cable that leads to an externally mounted antenna. The higher the antenna is mounted, the better the range. The vehicle-mounted mobile radio is often used as a base station by adding an AC to DC power converter.&#; Two-way radio repeaters are essentially radios that increase the operational range of your PMR radio system. Repeaters can be used to cover areas in your business where a two-way radio will not transmit or receive. A repeater receives the transmission of a two-way radio and rebroadcasts it further. Every Icom two-way radio for business is repeater capable, from the low cost IC-F series to the advanced IC-FD digital two-way radio series
7. How do I choose what sort of two-way radio system I need?Today's two-way radios have lots of functions and features. However, which ones do you need?
&#; Are the radios going to be used by just a few people?&#; Are the radios going to be used by just a few people?&#; Are you in an area where only a few radios are used?
As with all business decisions, you will need to find out what you want to get out of a two-way radio system. There is a lot to think about. A good starting point is getting an Icom business radio dealer involved who can guide you through your options and have the skills to put a radio system together. They will have the local expertise to help you with licensing, installation and after-sales support.As with all business decisions, you will need to find out what you want to get out of a two-way radio system. There is a lot to think about. A good starting point is getting an Icom business radio dealer involved who can guide you through your options and have the skills to put a radio system together. They will have the local expertise to help you with licensing, installation and after-sales support.
8. Analogue or Digital Two Way Radio?Having outlined the types of two-way radios for business, there is another choice, whether to choose analogue or digital. If you already have a radio system, it will may be an analogue system.
Icom has a digital two-way radio solution called IDAS (Icom Digital Advanced System), capable of analogue, digital, or digital/analogue mixed-mode operation. This means they can receive both analogue and digital mode signals on a single channel. Mixed-mode operation is a benefit as there is no need to buy a complete system outright, and it allows you to migrate from analogue to digital at your own pace, which is an important consideration in the current economic climate.Icom has a digital two-way radio solution called IDAS (Icom Digital Advanced System), capable of analogue, digital, or digital/analogue mixed-mode operation. This means they can receive both analogue and digital mode signals on a single channel. Mixed-mode operation is a benefit as there is no need to buy a complete system outright, and it allows you to migrate from analogue to digital at your own pace, which is an important consideration in the current economic climate.
There is nothing wrong with purchasing an analogue radio; they will still be around for a considerable time. But there is a clear business case for digital business radio. As well as future-proofing your communication needs, Icom digital radios are incredibly spectrum efficient, doubling the number of potential users on the traditional current channel capacity of 12.5 kHz. In addition, IDAS radios feature outstanding audio and superb noise-cancelling properties. When comparing digital with analogue, the audio quality of analogue gradually deteriorates with static noise as the distance increases. On the other hand, digital provides stable audio for longer than analogue until the edge of the communication range.There is nothing wrong with purchasing an analogue radio; they will still be around for a considerable time. But there is a clear business case for digital business radio. As well as future-proofing your communication needs, Icom digital radios are incredibly spectrum efficient, doubling the number of potential users on the traditional current channel capacity of 12.5 kHz. In addition, IDAS radios feature outstanding audio and superb noise-cancelling properties. When comparing digital with analogue, the audio quality of analogue gradually deteriorates with static noise as the distance increases. On the other hand, digital provides stable audio for longer than analogue until the edge of the communication range.
A new alternative? &#; Advances in Radio TechnologyA new alternative? &#; Advances in Radio Technology
, which works over wireless LAN (WLAN) and IP networks, utilises a network controller and remote communicators/handsets and provides secure conversation via WLAN security protocols (WPA-PSK and WPA-PSK2). The system is licence-free. Icom&#;s IP Advanced Radio System , which works over wireless LAN (WLAN) and IP networks, utilises a network controller and remote communicators/handsets and provides secure conversation via WLAN security protocols (WPA-PSK and WPA-PSK2). The system is licence-free.Another alternative is theAnother alternative is the Icom LTE Radio System which is also license-free. Using the LTE/4G network, the system gives you mobile coverage but with Push-to-Talk two-way radio communications. With the custom ICOM sim card, users benefit from a closed private network and you can simply turn on and use, no installation required. There is even a Hybrid radio called the IP730D Series that can provide nationwide coverage over the LTE network as well as conventional VHF/UHF professional radio mode to work locally.
Both systems have many benefits, but we see them providing further choice alongside analogue and digital radio systems. There are solid reasons for customers to move towards these new technologies including no licence fee, encrypted communication and excellent audio quality.Both systems have many benefits, but we see them providing further choice alongside analogue and digital radio systems. There are solid reasons for customers to move towards these new technologies including no licence fee, encrypted communication and excellent audio quality.
Both systems can be used like a traditional radio system with individual and group calling. All of this is done by allocating each individual hand portable a personality on the system. It&#;s a direct replacement to radio systems with increased capacity but using different technology.Both systems can be used like a traditional radio system with individual and group calling. All of this is done by allocating each individual hand portable a personality on the system. It&#;s a direct replacement to radio systems with increased capacity but using different technology.
In terms of installation, the system can be so much simpler. To put communications in a building you would traditionally use a distributed antenna system, maybe including a lift shaft to get full coverage. The process is much simpler, the IP Advanced Radio System uses wireless access points around the building and the LTE Radio System uses pre-existing signal masts that are installed throughout the country.In terms of installation, the system can be so much simpler. To put communications in a building you would traditionally use a distributed antenna system, maybe including a lift shaft to get full coverage. The process is much simpler, the IP Advanced Radio System uses wireless access points around the building and the LTE Radio System uses pre-existing signal masts that are installed throughout the country.
9. What features do I need on a two-way radio?Two-way radios can be purchased with a variety of functions and features &#; Here are just a few that you may want to consider.
Security features?Many features can be installed or programmed into a two-way radio. The 'Emergency Call' or 'man down' feature enables the radio user to notify all other radios on the same channel immediately. For example, suppose the radio users should become injured, trapped or in danger. In that case, a simple push of a button will call everyone, and the microphone on the radio is automatically activated for a brief period so the users can call out a message.
Selectable PowerGood-quality radio units allow you to switch between high and low power modes. Low power reduces the range of your two-way radio, but it extends the battery's life and vice versa. Some radios also let you program the power mode on individual channels so some channels can use low power, while others use high power.
AccessoriesHeadsets, spare Batteries, cases, belt clips and speaker microphones are often necessary. Check out our range of two-way radio accessories to find the accessories you are looking for.
If your organisation operates multiple shifts, you might want to consider a six-way rapid charger like theIf your organisation operates multiple shifts, you might want to consider a six-way rapid charger like the Icom BC-214 and have staff share radios. To allow seamless operation, why not invest in extra batteries.
WarrantyA warranty is mandatory, but it is also a guarantee of peace of mind when purchasing a radio so that the dealer and manufacturer can back up what they are saying regarding product quality and build. Icom UK's business radios (radio body only) come with a two-year parts and labour warranty.
10. What will it cost?OK, the big question&#;unfortunately, that is the one question we cannot answer, but your local Icom business radio dealer can. Often you will find that the radios you need are much more affordable than some you might have first looked at. Icom has a comprehensive range at all price levels while still having the same quality, and you could consider spreading the immediate cost by leasing rather than outright purchase.
11. Do I need a licence for a two-way radio for my business?You do. You will need a radio licence to operate your two-way radios. This is issued by the Government Agency, Ofcom . Licensed frequencies are allocated on a case-by-case basis. You can get your dealer to program them into your radio.
Get your local dealer to help with the licence application. They will advise on the best way to apply to get the channel you need.Get your local dealer to help with the licence application. They will advise on the best way to apply to get the channel you need.
If you wish to use your radios all over the UK and are not based in one fixed location, you can apply for a Business Radio Simple UK licence, which is £75 and renewable every five years.If you wish to use your radios all over the UK and are not based in one fixed location, you can apply for a Business Radio Simple UK licence, which is £75 and renewable every five years.
More information about this subject can be found by clicking on the following link:More information about this subject can be found by clicking on the following link: &#;Getting the Right Two Way Business Radio Licence&#;
12. Where can I find more information about a two-way radio scheme?As mentioned earlier, it is always a good idea to take advice from your Icom business radio dealer. He can help you analyse your operational needs and recommend the features you do and don&#;t need. He can also guide you through the complicated task of getting a business radio licence from OFCOM.
For further information, you can visit the following web pages:Alternatively, contact our sales team on or for assistance.
Are you interested in learning more about Radio Remote Unit? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
Previous: What is Baseband?
If you are interested in sending in a Guest Blogger Submission,welcome to write for us!
All Comments ( 0 )