How Do You Peak And Tune A CB Radio?
The factory settings for CB radios ensure that the frequency, output wattage and modulation fall within the regulations of the Federal Communication Commission. Settings may be on the low side to meet those regulations; for example, the legal limit for CB radio transmission is 4 watts. This article will explain how to peak and tune a CB radio and antenna, though frequencies in newer radios don’t drift and so the radios don’t need to be tuned. • Buy or borrow a standing wave ratio (SWR) meter and a coaxial jumper cable. You should be able to buy them for less than $20. • Drive your vehicle to a large open area, away from buildings and trees, to test your CB radio. 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. • Ensure that the unit is well-grounded before you try to peak and tune a CB radio. • Manually unscrew the cable that runs from the radio to the antenna and connect it to the input marked
