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CB (Citizens Band) Radio
Provides short-range
radio communication. There is currently no license required to
operate. There are two types HF 27 MHz and UHF 477 MHz. The MHz
(megahertz) refers to the radio frequency on which the equipment operates.
First introduced in
1970, the government initially allocated 18 channels and an annual fee was
payable to obtain a license. In 1982 the band was extended to 40 channels,
and in 1994 the government abolished CB license fees.
When having a
conversation always remember CB radio communication is not private. Also,
CB is not like a telephone in that only one person can speak at a time.
For communication in ‘Outback’ Australia it is
recommended you buy or hire a satellite
telephone or HF transceiver.
See HF Radio article
AM
(27MHz) equipment is rarely used these
days as it only provided a small range (approx
1- 3 kilometers) and speech was difficult to
understand. Vehicle noise was also a
problem.
A UHF (FM) CB radio provides a clearer
communication with less interference from such
things as power lines or atmospheric noise. It
uses the 40 channels between 476.425 to 477.400
MHz .
The UHF CB came of age with the introduction of
repeater stations that retransmit signals
received on one channel onto another channel.
Channels 1- 8 are designated as repeater output
channels with channels 31 to 38 the
corresponding designated repeater input
channels. For example, a repeater that
transmits on Channel 1 will always receive on
Channel 31.
Modern transceivers can scan the 40 channels and
they lock in on a channel when a signal is
heard. UHF communication is often termed ‘line
of sight’ communication as good communication is
available where there are no obstructions such
as hills between yourself and say another
vehicle with whom you are communicating. UHF
has a range, in good conditions, of about 20-30
kilometers. When in areas where repeater
stations are installed this range can improve
the range up to about 300 kms.
Some brand names of radio transceivers are GME
Electrophone, Uniden and Icom.
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