In-Vehicle UHF

CB and UHF Communication

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.

Communication
When considering the type of communication system you need it is important to understand all the options available to you including their capabilities and limitations.

HF Radio
Information on HF Radios, their use in the ouback for emergencies and how they can link to the landline and mobile telephone networks.

Hand Held / Portable UHF CB
Hand held communications can be useful for caravanners to assist in parking their rigs.  They are also useful for camping, trekking, fishing and sporting events. 

Public Telephones and Phone Cards
Is it safe and practical to use public telephones or phone cards whilst travelling?

Internet Cafés & Wireless Internet via Laptops
What is available to travellers on the road to provide internet access and email communication.  Contains information on all options.

Mobile Phone Connection
Choosing the right mobile is important to enable you to "stay in touch" whilst travelling.  CDMA, 3G, Next G?  Which is the best one?

Satellite Phones
Do you need a one?  How do they work? Can you hire a Satellite phones?  Are Satellite phones expensive?

Distress Beacons and EPIRBS
What is an EPIRB?  When do you need to carry an EPIRB? 

Also see:

Best Tow Vehicle
Different Types of Caravans
Hitches, Anti-Sway Bars & Chains
Fifth Wheelers
Caravan Reversing