CB or Citizens band radios are two-way radios used for short-distance, person-to-person voice Communication. It’s an amateur radio system that does not require a license and can transmit signals for ten miles or more. Multiple CB radio users share 40 frequency channels, sending only one transmission at a time. The workings of a CB radio are simple: a few essential knobs, a transceiver microphone, a digital display, and coaxial cable to connect the Antenna. These easy-to-use radios are especially popular among truckers and in remote areas that lack reliable cell service. Although sales have slowed in recent years with the advent of cell phones, 40-channel CB radios continue to have a loyal following. Here are some of the many reasons you might like to own a CB radio:

• Off-road and Hiking: 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 advice on navigating specific trails. Hikers appreciate the radio’s ability to request help when needed.
• Traffic alerts: 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.
• Weather channels: A CB radio keeps you informed about weather alerts, storms, environmental catastrophes, and other threats.
• Boating: Because cell service is virtually non-existent on the open water, boaters depend on CB radios to keep them safe; multi-band radios can access marine channels as well.
• Hunting: CB radios work in remote areas, allowing communication between groups. 
• Travel: CB radios will function in lousy weather or mountainous terrain; easy communication in a group of vehicles traveling together makes them popular with RV travelers, motorcyclists, and truck drivers.
• Emergencies: CB radios can contact emergency services even in remote areas, and they can run on battery power for communication after a natural disaster. Emergency channels 9 and 19 are reserved for emergency transmissions only.

Types of CB Radios

Mobile CB Radios

Mobile CB radios are the most popular type; they are installed in vehicles either on the dashboard or floor and are powered by the vehicle battery. Designed to be used on road trips, a mobile CB has a relatively small box with several dials and an attached microphone. They are available in several sizes; be sure to measure your vehicle’s interior so you can choose a Model that will fit without blocking leg room. 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. Truck drivers, off-roaders, and RV owners use Mobile CB models.

Base Station

A Base Station CB radio is operated from a stationary location, such as a home or office, and is powered by an AC wall outlet. Base stations typically have more features than other types of CB radios so they tend to be more expensive. For example, the Midland MicroMobile MXT500 base radio for home or vehicle use is priced over $400.00. 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 a base station antenna.

Handheld Radios

Handheld CB radios are also known as walkie-talkies; they’re designed to be compact and portable so they’re ideal for traveling by foot, horseback, motorcycle, or bicycle. The small size also makes them convenient for smaller vehicles or when a permanent CB radio installation is not practical. They are battery-powered and usually have a cigarette-lighter cord for vehicle use. Some models have rechargeable battery packs or incorporate rechargeable AA batteries. Handheld CB radios can be converted for use in vehicles by connecting a magnetic or fixed-mount CB antenna; simply remove the radio’s rubber antenna and attach a connector for the car-mounted antenna.

All-In-Handset CB Radio

All-In-Handset 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. Their compact size and easy installation make them a good choice for installation in smaller vehicles.

Amateur (Ham) Radios

While a Ham radio is not the same as a CB radio, it is worth considering if you want a radio for long-range communication. Ham radios are part of the Amateur Radio Service and can transmit and receive communication from much larger ranges; with the right equipment, a Ham operator can broadcast for thousands of miles. Each Ham radio is a specialized multiband receiver that can utilize FRS, HF, UHF, VHF, SHF, and EHF frequencies. While other multiband radios only have the ability to receive, a Ham radio enables a licensed operator to transmit as well. However, Ham radio users must be licensed by the FCC. If you want the power of a Ham or 10 meter radio, Stryker’s SR-955HPC is an excellent choice. 

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:

Size

One of the most important radio features to consider is size. 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 pick a CB radio model that will fit. 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.

Single SideBand or SSB Mode

In addition to AM frequencies, CB service operates on the same 40 channels in Single SideBand (SSB) mode. SSB has two additional frequency bands, Upper Sideband and Lower Sideband. 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. The FCC allows 12 watts of transmit power for SSB; however, both sending and receiving CB radios need to be SSB-capable to communicate on those channels. SSB CB offers more channels, more power, and greater range than AM mode and is usually found on high-end CB radios.

Multi-Band Capability

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 merges VHF, UHF, CB, HAM, AM, and FM all into 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 radio, users who are licensed with the FCC can broadcast on Ham radio channels. 

Useful Operating Features

CB radios offer so many different features, it’s important to decide which are important to you before you shop. Here are some of the features to consider:

• • Talkback: This feature allows you to hear your voice when you transmit. If you have one installed, your voice will come either through the CB speaker or an external speaker.
  • Roger beep: The roger beep is a tone—short, long, or any combination—that sounds when the radio operator un-keys their microphone. The beep lets others know that the person talking is finished.
  • NOAA Weather alerts: When the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) identifies a weather emergency, it transmits a unique tone and the CB radio sounds an alarm to warn of the danger.  
  • Frequency counter: This feature is useful when you are operating on single sideband mode and need to adjust the frequency on which your radio is receiving or transmitting.
  • Automatic noise limiter: The ANL reduces the amount of interference from external sources, including ignition noise, power lines, and inverters.
  • Channel scan: On a CB radio, channel scan finds a channel where people are talking and automatically stops there. This safety feature keeps the driver’s eyes on the road while searching for conversations.
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth-equipped radios allow you to connect your cell phone and have cell conversations using your CB radio.
  • Backlit color displays: LCD display backlighting makes it easier to see essential controls during night driving or bad weather. Drivers can then make necessary adjustments for clear communication.

• SWR or standing wave ratio meter: While a separate SWR meter is best for tuning a CB antenna, many CB radios have a built-in meter to help with troubleshooting.

CB Radio Rules & Regulations

CB radio services are intended for short-range, low-power communications. Virtually anyone may operate a CB station for personal or business purposes.

Here are some of the FCC rules and regulations concerning CB radios:

• An individual license is not required to operate a CB station, and the FCC does not renew formerly issued CB Radio Service licenses
• CB service operates on 40 shared channels on a “take-turns” basis, meaning no CB channel is assigned to a specific individual or organization.
• CB users are limited to 5 minutes of continuous talk with another station and must wait at least one minute before starting another communication on the same channel
• CB equipment used in the United States must be FCC-certified and labeled as such by the manufacturer
• The FCC does not allow raising the power output of a CB unit, attaching a power amplifier, or modifying the unit internally
• The FCC prohibits communication attempts with CB stations over 155.3 miles away, although some users have found ways around this regulation

Personal radio service devices typically do not rely on transmission towers or other equipment. Some types, especially those using VHF and UHF radio spectrum, will have less static, noise, and fading than CB radios or walkie-talkies.

Choosing The Best CB Radio Brand

There are so many CB radio brands on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is best for you. Online reviews can lead you to the best CB radios from brands with outstanding reputations.

One important thing to look for is durable construction because mobile CB radios are subject to vibrations from the road. With every radio they sell, Stryker’s commitment to quality is unwavering. They offer top-of-the-line audio clarity, enhanced durability, and the latest features, including:

• AM/FM/SSB
• Loud & Clear Receiver
• High Power 60+ watts PEP
• Excellent Stock Mic
• Variable Transmit Frequency Response
• Receive Noise Reduction uses DSP
• 3-Year Warranty

Because a CB antenna is such an essential part of the radio’s functioning, it makes sense to buy the very best. Stryker offers an exceptional CB antenna called the Stryker SR-A10. This is one of the most powerful CB Antennas available, designed for CB enthusiasts who require a high-performance antenna to handle high-power radios.

Take a look at these features:

• High-Quality Performance
• Reduced Static Interference
• High-Impact Plastic
• Greater Efficiency
• Higher Power Handling Capability (10,000 Watts)
• Stainless Steel Shaft
• Coil Wound (Solid Copper Wire)
• Higher “Q” Value
• 2-Year Warranty

Choose your new CB antenna from three Stryker models

Stryker Radios is all about taking good care of our customers, and our lineup of high-quality radios, antennas, and accessories is proof. To get the best performance out of your CB radio, choose a high-quality CB Antenna from Stryker online, or locate a store near you.