The Simple Guide To CB Radio. Everything You'll Need To Know To Get On The Air And Talking Made Easy

[@HouseOfThe8Strings]

CB is alive and well. Spend a day setting up a good antenna system and you’ll realize how much is actually happening on the air! -209

[@FarpointFarms]

Totally! A good antenna setup right makes the world wide open.

[@JasonCooper-em4gt]

Right ham fest finds fingerhut cb radio 📻

[@blackhawk65589]

This is one of the best beginner videos lately. Your radio videos have improved so much the past 5 or so years. I really like using a trail cam battery instead of a car battery.

[@FarpointFarms]

Good idea! Trail cam battery setups are light weight and still have the power to run stuff!

[@davidg4081]

A great basic& simple explanation for new people getting intonCB/ 11 meter radios.

[@FarpointFarms]

That was the aim. To give a person interested in radio a good place to start.

[@unitedstatesirie7431]

​@@FarpointFarmsis that you singing in the introduction of your KZbin channel ? 🎶

[@88corinutza]

@@FarpointFarms Just bought the Uniden 980 SSB Thanks for the tips

[@justinrayguitars6024]

Great video! I am glad to see people getting back into CB. No subscriptions are user fees. The one thing you forgot to mention is the fact that once you get everything you need then you start wanting more. More channels,bigger antenna, more power and the list go's on. LOl 73's from 828 Guitarman.

[@FarpointFarms]

Shhhh! We don't want to scare people away! Ha! Yes, it's a great hobby and it can and sometimes does get a bit addicting.

[@MillerOubre]

COuld you do a video on the best handheld CB antennas? like your top three antennas !

[@FarpointFarms]

Not a lot of options there, but I'll see what I can find.

[@bro.weaver1282]

Here it´s either 19 or Lower 29, all the base stations went down there to escape the skip. So really only two channels around here locally. Kinda a shame cause you would think the CB is dead if you only have regular 40 channels.

[@FarpointFarms]

It is an issue for AM only users. A lot of base station operators use SSb most of the time.

[@bro.weaver1282]

@@FarpointFarms Yeah, the local guys been using AM since the 70´s, so it just will not change. It would be cool to have FM locally, but we are all on AM, and once in a while a ¨"new" radio will pop up, like a Golden Eagle. Also many of the old timers only have AM with an expansion mod.

[@WhiteCavendish]

16 and 4 are traditionally the off road channels (4x4=16) and are mostly used for off roading. Overland Bound officially uses 16 as the CB calling channel. Another great vid!

[@FarpointFarms]

Thank you for sharing the 16 4 channels. good to know

[@tahoma6889]

16 is a SSB (Sideband) channel. Has been since the 1960's. Using it on AM is causing other people problems. Just an FYI.

[@WhiteCavendish]

@@tahoma6889 You're literally the only person I've ever seen say that and every single resource online agrees with me.

[@tahoma6889]

Are these radio resources you are looking into, or off road resources? Channels 15 and 16 were designated SSB channels to accommodate 23 channel SSB radios. They are still used today and I often hear a lot of overseas stations on 16 SSB. There are also regular net's that take place on 16 LSB. If you have been researching radio sources, then you know what a net is. Traditionally, these (15/16) were the only designated SSB channels there were until the introduction of 40 channel usage. At that point, 31 thru 40 were adopted in as well. Everyone knows, 15, 16, 31 thru 40, are sideband. @@WhiteCavendish

[@Louiscare]

​@@tahoma6889 I'm not very big into it, but here in EU 16 is offroad and 4 is general comm of Germany

[@TheCorybonuaf]

I am just getting into using a CB. And I have learned more from this video than the past four hours. I appreciate that. Thank you.

[@FarpointFarms]

Great to hear! That was my intent!

[@davepetro5676]

Do you have a recommendation on a 9 foot whip antenna where to buy 1 I found my 2 old CB radio I had when I was a kid have fun talking to local in morning for about 10 minutes a day. Keep on when I drive around

[@FarpointFarms]

If you can go back in time, Radio Shack. Maybe Ebay or Amazon for it.

[@TheRealRenn]

Signal bounces off the atmosphere...aka the firmament

[@FarpointFarms]

Right on!

[@bro.weaver1282]

I 102¨whip on the roof of that Mazda would look pretty cool.

[@FarpointFarms]

Heck yes!

[@KeepItMowed]

I'm glad someone is explaining this for the newbie's. Good video.

[@FarpointFarms]

I'm aiming to keep the hobby alive by drawing in new younger users.

[@markmcilroy3474]

I really envy you guys in the US, Here in Australia if you want to buy a used SSB 40ch 25yr old radio, you won't get one for under $230.

[@FarpointFarms]

Bummer! Sorry to hear it.

[@markmcilroy3474]

Me too! Australia is now one of the most expensive countries in the world to live. Everything is 3-4 times more expensive than what you guys pay.​@@FarpointFarms

[@adamboychuk8221]

One question are all those radios running off the same antenna

[@FarpointFarms]

There are different antennas

[@MJ-wk5lm]

You were the one who convinced me to get (back) into the hobby, and get a ssb McKinley radio. I had a ham license, but I let it lapse. I also really enjoy listening to shortwave.

[@FarpointFarms]

Glad to hear it. Shortwave gets way too little love these days.

[@tahoma6889]

Renew your ham, the bands are amazing right now.

[@tahoma6889]

If you go take the technician license test and pass it all your previous privileges will be restored.

[@timidater4803]

I cant find any uniden 980 ssb for under $120

[@jamescrabb8766]

Mine cost 169.00 with shipping included.

[@FarpointFarms]

Used? When I filmed this 2 months back they were new for 119 on Amazon. I know inflation sucks but dang.

[@waltsmith6515]

Don't buy that,the display WILL Not last long

[@CAGraphics576]

I had a few CB radios 40 years ago, so thank you for getting me refamiliarized. For my car, I see what looks like a decent radio for $50 and wonder what features I get with a $100?

[@FarpointFarms]

I like to tell people get one that is in your budget with the features that you want. Don;t forget a solid antenna-

[@torgomax]

I bought a Wilson 1000 for my Randy2.. gonna try to find someone local to tune it for Me.

[@FarpointFarms]

Get yourself a used SWR meter and save the $$. You can do it!

[@kurttuttle1817]

Enjoy your videos, but at the beginning you said AM/SSB and forgot FM, or was this a recycled video. :-)

[@FarpointFarms]

FM use is currently sitting at less than 1% of CB communication. So I didn't want to further confuse new users.

[@kurttuttle1817]

@@FarpointFarms I can see that, but this might have been a chance to actually be pro-active on using FM for clarity of the signal especially with more and more radios are coming out with it. Looking forward to your next video.

[@jaycharles9548]

Question please…….thinking of putting a “base” unit in my house so I can communicate 20-30 miles out to my children in case cell phones go out. They would have a mobile CB in their car ( Cobra 50 WXST ). Would this work ?

[@FarpointFarms]

I doubt that you will be able to get that far of reception. a GMRS radio might work better for you especially if there are repeaters in the surrounding areas

[@evi2083]

Channel 9 is not out of use in the USA the Sheriff in Yuma County, AZ is still using channel 9 using SSB. Most cars are using SSB now days not AM. Also most SSB will also have AM capabilities.

[@FarpointFarms]

that is good to know that they are still using it.

[@Edwinke11ey]

What if I’m a trucker driving to WA border of Canada trying to communicate to family in Utah? How can i make that happen with out using a cellphone?

[@FarpointFarms]

That would be more than a bit of a stretch. I'd say your more looking towards HAM radio for those ranges.

[@christophersmith1155]

we can still buy a GALAXY 2547DX base station brand new. see mine ?

[@FarpointFarms]

I forgot all about that one! It's the last one standing here in the states too.

[@christophersmith1155]

YES. TRUCKS CB RADIO sells and tunes them well. also BELLS CB.

[@reidtillery2856]

I have a 4-watt President Walker FCC and an A-99 antenna. Mostly all I'm hearing on am is a lot of garbage skip from far away put out by people probably using a whole lot of illegal power? Does CB ever get any better than this?

[@FarpointFarms]

Have you tried talking? They are out there, but if you never speak up, who will there ever be to talk to?

[@michaell7877]

Ole timer new to your channel. I used to be all into it, back in the early 70's. I even had a base station with a tower, set of beams, and a silver eagle D104. LOL.. I really can't get into the whole setup again, cause I lease now and don't own a place, or I would. I'm interested in hand held cb hand helds. Maybe even with ssb too. I basically want to use it for on the move via vehicle and traveling by feet lol... Got any suggestions?

[@FarpointFarms]

There is one called the Cherokee brand- (old school) that had SSB- It might be worth looking into

[@mikecricket113]

Wait you can ground your radio to your outlet ground? Please explain how to.

[@FarpointFarms]

Yup. The ground terminal on your outlet of just that, a ground. Run that to the chassis and there you go!

[@mikecricket113]

@@FarpointFarms any special equipment needed? Like a modified 3 prong plug , or use just the the ground prong and not the hot and neutral?

[@barneymm2204]

@@mikecricket113 I'd verify ground is good with a circuit checker, modify a three prong plug by cutting off the hot and neutral prongs, drag a rough file across the face to knock off the sharp stubs that will remain and, for good measure, use some good electrical tape and tape over where the prongs have been filed down. BUT FIRST!... After checking with a circuit checker, I'd use a meter and make sure that your ground is grounded. Back in days of yore, the old computers used to use ground voltage (zero) as reference for zeros (0V = 0, 5V = 1). Every rental I moved into the first thing I'd do is check voltage between all three prongs of an outlet (H-N, H-G, N-G). In order for an outlet to be safe for a computer, there had to be less than a third of a volt between N-G. It's possible a homes/buildings electrical grounding could be a floating ground. I've seen it. I've seen chassis grounds have higher voltages than earth grounds.

[@vampiregoat69]

I miss running a CB I used a mobile Cobra 29 LTD as a base station. NEVER seen those CBs for that cheap so not sure where you are getting those prices at not even on Ebay are they that good

[@FarpointFarms]

I look at local flea markets, ham fests, random thrift stores. They are getting harder to find, but they are still out there

[@chiefjoseph8154]

New again to the CB world. How do you get past all the noise and skips? I hear people a thousand miles away and no one local? My CB is tuned and matched to my antenna. If it makes a difference I’m in the Northeast.

[@FarpointFarms]

Local chat now usually happens only on a channel or two and only at certain times of day. If your radio has a scan function, let it roll until someone closer pops up!

[@HenryCalderonJr]

Great refresher thanks Eric! Have a fantastic weekend with your loved ones also! 👍🏼🙏🏼

[@FarpointFarms]

You to my friend!

[@kisho2679]

How can a smartphone be used as a CB radio if there is no internet connection available (e.g. with which additional hardware equipment or adapter/converter)?

[@FarpointFarms]

None. Sadly Cell phones are 100% locked into cell towers. When power goes down, so do the towers after the battery's run down. CB is a totally different system that operates as a single radio contacting other single radios so that the "System" can't fail.

[@tylerexperience8704]

Can a vehicle CB give off Harmful RF radiation, have you had any issues inside your vehicle?

[@FarpointFarms]

I have not noticed any thing

[@hash46176]

I have a cobra 2000gtl a motorola cb555 bases andd cobra 29ltd classic and uniden bc888

[@FarpointFarms]

The 2000 is a highly sought after radio these days. Good setup!

[@Pimporly]

Great CB Radio Content I'm Miami 305 on LSB Channel 37 38 Which it is 27.3750 27.3850 and sometime on 27,3950 Which is Channel 39. I'm sometime on it from 4:00 Pm sometime 5 PM. and so on Conditions are bad now but I can tell you guys this it going to be Great Starting Next Year or the Following one. we just have to Hang in there until this Happen. 73 to all of you guys from the Miami area

[@FarpointFarms]

Can't wait!

[@Pimporly]

@@FarpointFarms Can't Wait either. Take care my Friend

[@jamesvalenti9288]

What is your opinion on Wilson Antennas?

[@FarpointFarms]

I love TRAM/Wilson/K30 or 40 antennas. They are all made by the same parent company and all work great.

[@MowerJunkie]

Awesome video, hopefully it will help get more people on the air. In my area we are blessed with a lot of locals, Someone is out there just about anytime of the day. Take care Erik, Enjoy the hobby!

[@FarpointFarms]

Same to you my friend! I've got some old timers near me that spend their evenings chatting, so when I moved here I was in heaven. Since then, I've got a few younger guys to join the conversations as well. Love it!

[@Larry-j9b]

Hey Guy, watching and i know squat and im ignorant of the reference to,"if the skip working today?," plus im researching the FREE internet over CB radio!?!?!? Hardware & Etc, how-to PLZ!

[@FarpointFarms]

Can't help you with free internet, but Skip I can. search my channel for a video explaining all of it.

[@Larry-j9b]

@@FarpointFarms Okay, and I appreciate the assist too! A caveat; regarding CB internet access, it's real & I've discovered just (1) video on it but it's awesome!!!

[@denveradams4909]

In my area, several CB channels have been taken over by oil/gas exploration companies traffic control. They control vehicle movement on/off drilling pads. Then, there are the skip channels. On AM, channels 6, 9, 11, 19. On SSB, channels 37, 38, 39. And dare I mention the language? In my opinion, if a radio operator has to throw an "F" bomb every 3rd word, they don't have a very good command on the english language. And it is very offensive to this Christian. For these reasons, I rarely even listen to my mobile radio anymore. Since I don't have a cell phone, my main purpose of having the radio in my SUV, is to have a way to summon help, should I have a break down along the road. Since the CB band isn't regulated and monitored by the FCC, it has become very trashy and unpleasant.

[@FarpointFarms]

It is still Illegal for a company to use CB radio to communicate. Report it to the FCC and since companies actually have money to take, they will act.

[@williekaminski3705]

Can't they use the radio waves like we all do? I go to plenty of shippers and they keep their base stations on a specific channel so we can check in when we get there.

[@FarpointFarms]

@@williekaminski3705 So, yes and no. They can monitor and respond to drivers at ports, or terminals or whatnot, but they are not supposed to be using it for their primary communications between company cars, terminal to dispatch, that sort of thing. Think of a tow truck company, as this is where I found the law on this issue. A Tow truck company had 3 trucks and a main office. They used CB radios in all their trucks plus a Base at the main office to "Radio dispatch" the trucks to wrecks and what not. The problem arrived when they picked a channel and started to use it exclusively for their business. CB users in the area reported it and they were fined. There is a Business band for that type of work.

[@blazinSpike]

I've been looking for a really good base station antenna for my ranger RCI-6300f25

[@FarpointFarms]

I LOVE the Antron A99. It's a good price and works well for at least 20 years.

[@blazinSpike]

@@FarpointFarms will it handle 25 watts

[@crosisofborg5524]

I used to run a Realistic 23 channel base station with an Avanti AV-101 Astroplane antenna. Now I love in a condo so I can’t mount an antenna so no more radio.

[@FarpointFarms]

what a shame that you can't have one-

[@oldred2470]

So my question is what type of cb would recommend and how long of a attena for just hear everybody in and around my state

[@FarpointFarms]

Your best radio would be one that has SSB. The Uniden 980 and the President McKinley. As for antennas? The Antron A99 is a perfect pick!

[@jasonbabila6006]

During the 80's I used a 1st version President Lincoln with a 12' stainless steel whip and 18' of RG8, I had the antenna mounted at the top left corner of the bed of a 1965 C10 with a 1/4" thick steel 6" X 12" plate bent 90 degrees to form an L mounting bracket and mounted near the tailgate, no amps all barefoot, the SWR at all channels were 1.0 to 1.1, I was able to communicate worldwide on SSB, and numerous states on AM, it had good grounding and the 1/4" bracket acted as a ground plane. I definitely miss that set up and days of DXing with numerous QSL cards from around the world.

[@FarpointFarms]

I do miss the glory days of cb for sure. We had monthly meet ups back in Raleigh.

[@jasonbabila6006]

@@FarpointFarms Back then we had no clubs or meetings but we helped each other with their setups weather it's a mobile or base station, also there was hardly any obnoxious skips and commotion interference.

[@itsyaboimat2393]

So im a paid on call firefighter in the northeast and a ford police interceptor utility I'm looking at picking up has a Cobra Ultra iii in it can it be programmed for my fire department frequencies?

[@FarpointFarms]

No sadly you'd need both a CB and a scanner for that task.

[@jamesmatheson9624]

Hey is there an adjustable antenna that goes from 2 feet to 9 feet Thanks for letting me ask

[@FarpointFarms]

Not that I am aware of.

[@josephvoytus3694]

Put a Uniden 980 & 3ft antenna on a new Bronco. The antenna is mounted on back to the right of spare tire (say passenger seat) sticks above the roofline a foot-ish. My question is after talking to some truckers on I-80 and figuring MAYBE 2 mile range...could the Bronco's non metal roof be hampering my range ? I picked up an SWR meter but haven't gotten out away from town to see if i can adjust a bit to make better. Was hoping for 5-6 mile range, which I had achieved with a 2013 Wrangler with similar roof & setup. Thanks in advance for any thoughts/suggestions.

[@FarpointFarms]

Yes, the fiberglass roof on the broco is likely the issue. the SQR Meter will be the tell. You may have to rethink the antenna position to get a better signal.

[@josephvoytus3694]

@@FarpointFarms thank you. Super appreciate the quick reply !!

[@georgethayer3533]

Hi eric do you anybody that work on old Fenton courier model 40 ssb I have one like to get work on and get it tune up and working again please let me know if you do Eric

[@FarpointFarms]

I'm sorry, I don't.

[@BarnyDaddy]

I have an old K40 radio with K40 antenna. Any good? I don’t have a tuner to adjust the wave of the antenna.

[@FarpointFarms]

That should work, it was decent in the day

[@johnkelley6278]

Good inexpensive hobby to get back into, I have got 35 dollars invested in 3- forty channel CB radios and a magnet antenna. Thanks for keeping and revitalizing this hobby.

[@FarpointFarms]

Thanks for sharing! Those are good deals in 2023!!

[@gremlin7599]

Trickle chargers are not for long term use, that would be battery maintainers

[@FarpointFarms]

Got it!

[@johnc5450]

Prices have definitely gone up! I couldn’t find any decent radios on eBay at the prices you listed, not even remotely close at this time! I have had some luck on FB market place as well as Craigslist. eBay seems to think they are all collectors items! Great video and I look forward to seeing what comes next!

[@FarpointFarms]

It's sad that many of the hobbies that I enjoy are rapidly being priced out of the range where I can enjoy them.

[@strokerj878]

yooo, I got a little question: what does "11 meters" mean? also. if I wanted to use a TRC-503 for off-grid use (camping) with solar energy, what is the entire set-up i'd need? please include EVERYTHING (radio, microphone, antenna, etc)

[@FarpointFarms]

11 meters is the CB radio band. it's the length of the wave. I made a video on off grid setups take a look at that and see if you still have questions.

[@strokerj878]

@@FarpointFarms How cool, I'll make sure to check your off-grid video, thanks! Also, how good is a TRC-521 compared to a 503?

[@prayerwarrior424]

I’m in MA and one son is in FL… interested in home base… can you recommend what we (and him ) will need?

[@FarpointFarms]

I've made many videos on the subject. Look at my base station video and my power needs video to get more help.

[@jima5911]

Great for cars but, How can I improve the match of my home antenna?

[@FarpointFarms]

Good quality RG213 wire. A good grounding system and of course SWR adjustments on your Base antenna. I have my Antron A99 set down to 1.2 across all 40 or better. Height is also a plus when it comes to Base setups. The higher off the ground, the better the line of sight reception.

[@michaelroot6064]

You must have a lot of spanish speaking subscribers because I had to listen to a spanish speaking ford ad

[@francotirador7265]

I am one...

[@FarpointFarms]

Interesting. I wish I could speak it!

[@philipmiller9241]

You didnt mention FM on the newer radios

[@FarpointFarms]

As they represent a fraction of the cb use at this time, I didn't want to confuse new users with even more options. AM in in all the radios, and SSB is in use by around 25% of active cb users. FM? Less and 1%. That will hopefully change, but not for many years to come.

[@curtekstrom9531]

As the owner of 27 Cobra 29, 23 Channel CB Radios. Peaked and Tuned by a very knowledgeable Radio man. I will never touch a 40 Channel radio.

[@FarpointFarms]

Is your radio guy near me, I could use a good one

[@prayerwarrior424]

If I got a base unit and a base antenna… what would my 2 sons need (not starting with car units)

[@FarpointFarms]

Pretty much the same setup.

[@justinm8454]

My uncle gave me a CB radio and I have no idea how to use it lol or how to even talk

[@FarpointFarms]

Watch a few videos and play around. half the fun is learning

[@Lou-eye]

Dont they make hand held cb radios that look like a walkie talkie?

[@FarpointFarms]

They do- President makes one

[@williamhelliwell3060]

Great info for the beginner!! Four watts... how quaint (LOL) Been in the hobby for almost 50 years. It has changed a lot over the years but it does seem to be coming back. I find myself on 11 meters more than other bands, tends to be more friendly and down to earth.

[@FarpointFarms]

I agree that things seem to be on a large upswing. Lots more locals on the air at any given time around here.

[@spaceflight1019]

If you run legal power, you learn that the antenna is the most important part of a station. Antenna and coax. A great antenna turns the crappiest radio into King Kong. A bad antenna turns the best radio into a mudduck.

[@joshchilders-fy1pk]

​@@spaceflight1019who runs legal power anymore fcc does not care

[@spaceflight1019]

@@joshchilders-fy1pk Fundamentals.

[@Ratlins9]

This video is the most comprehensive and easy to understand for a newcomer (myself) to learn about CB radio. Thanks for making this video, I’m now a subscriber.

[@FarpointFarms]

Glad it was helpful! It is comments like this, that makes me glad I can make videos

[@Brantastic07]

5:23 A lithium ion battery would be better

[@FarpointFarms]

Agreed. They make 35AH batteries that take little room and would be perfect for this.

[@MillerOubre]

So can someone please help me asap. I ordered a trc 216 from a user in Canada and the manuel said the TRC can only be used in Canada not the US. Is that true? Canadian CB radios cannot be used in the USA?

[@FarpointFarms]

You are 100% fine to use that radio here in the states. The specs are identical.

[@MillerOubre]

@@FarpointFarms The manual I got with it says" Units manufactured for sale and use in Canada are not identical to units type accepted by the FCC. Canadian models have been approved by DOC and are to be used only Canada". Do I return it or keep it?

[@MillerOubre]

@@FarpointFarms after seeing this new comment, do I still keep it or should I return it? I have by AUG 7th to return it.

[@MillerOubre]

@@FarpointFarms This is the TRC- 216 manual I am talking about that said this.

[@MillerOubre]

@@FarpointFarms you c this new reply?

[@TheBigsouth08]

Can do you a video covering antennas for those of us in apartments that can't have outdoor antenns

[@FarpointFarms]

Working on one this week.

[@Michael-F4ul5kzbuck]

9 foot antanae?? Lol.. cant take that to the car wash....

[@FarpointFarms]

Ha- I don't think it would do too well in the automatic brushes

[@foxman362]

Getting macov5000 next month.......

[@FarpointFarms]

That is a GREAT antenna!

[@daviddennison4201]

Yard sale yesterday picked up 2 radios K40 ant. +old RS 12v supply 30$ made my day Great video as usual thanks!

[@FarpointFarms]

That is awesome! Those deals are still out there. I find antenna's to be a lot harder to find than radios.

[@bangzoom8180]

Perfect and succinct.👍🏽

[@FarpointFarms]

Thanks!

[@bangzoom8180]

Eric...I credit you in my quest for a mobile CB. Down to earth and informative videos regarding all subjects. Thank you 👍🏽

[@keatonmask1918]

i really want to set up a basic CB in my apartment, but the antennae on the roof is an issue since i don’t own the whole building :(

[@FarpointFarms]

You might consider the tram 1499 antenna or the saturn b100 will work out a window

[@keatonmask1918]

@@FarpointFarms Thanks for the recs, I appreciate it! I’ll look into those. I’m a total beginner

[@cbman4767]

Back a few years ago I use to run a Yaesu FT-101 into an Antron 99 Base antenna and kick ass. The thing is that if no one is listening what is the point. CB radio is dead and the only people on it are to dumb to get the Ham Radio licence.

[@FarpointFarms]

Rude, and of course wrong. Many Hams return to CB in order to get away from people with attitudes like yours.

[@cbman4767]

@@FarpointFarms Please enplane? You can't because you don't know.

[@FarpointFarms]

I just did explain. People don't like to talk to "know it alls" They'd rather find their way in no mans land than have a pretentious elmer constantly badgering them about some obscure rule no one cares about. @@cbman4767

[@aslanhicks3045]

I’ve never wanted to watch someone talk about anything more, you are very clear and have a wonderful voice

[@FarpointFarms]

Thank you

[@dontneedastupidname5012]

So where do you get these at these prices?

[@FarpointFarms]

Build a time machine and go back to before hyperinflation and the collapse of our country took place.

[@waynedoomad2573]

What is your handle on which channel

[@FarpointFarms]

Farpoint707 on SSB, still go by NorthStar on AM. hang out on 38,and 39 LSB and 14,16,19 on AM.

[@robertmethia7080]

standing wave ratio SWR

[@FarpointFarms]

Yes.

[@rp7326]

How do you connect the mobile CB to the power supply in your house?

[@FarpointFarms]

you need a 12v to 120v converter- Look for a radio shack power supply

[@ainttakenanyshit]

@@FarpointFarms Uh, more like a 120v to 12v, (typically 13.8volts), converter.... There, I fixed it for you ;-)

[@robertobrien4799]

Flipping AWESOME!

[@FarpointFarms]

Thank you

[@JohnnyMullet]

I have to disagree with the range of the President New Virginia antenna. I have the same antenna on the same car in the same location and can talk up to 14 miles on AM and 28 miles on sideband to base stations and about half the range mobile to mobile. You should range test it. You'll be surprised.

[@FarpointFarms]

Good to know! I have one on my Mirage and I was able to get 7 miles on it, but that's here in the mountains where range is greatly reduced. I put that number on it as I wanted to point out that antenna size does drastically change the range of these radios.

[@yisyvonne]

Thank you so much for this! I want to get into Cb radios and this was very helpful!

[@FarpointFarms]

Glad it was helpful!

[@svbluehighway]

If only the other cb ers were as chill and level headed as you…. Great job!

[@FarpointFarms]

I appreciate that!

[@bugzybalone9637]

How do I ground the radio using the outlet ground?

[@FarpointFarms]

You tie a ground wire into the grounded outlet.

[@bugzybalone9637]

@@FarpointFarms i’m sorry Just want to make sure I’m understanding correctly. so I would tie a ground wire from the chassis of the radio to the three prong plug where my power supply plugs in and connect that ground wire up to the ground on that power supply plug and plug that into my wall?

[@2Stroke_yourtje]

Whats the right blue lighted kind of radio?

[@FarpointFarms]

That is a Uniden 980 SSB CB Radio. A great radio!

[@2Stroke_yourtje]

@@FarpointFarms thanks👍

[@StormsRadiosCats]

I think it's ironic (or was it planned??) that your truck has the badge DX right next to the 102 " whip lol

[@FarpointFarms]

Ha! good point!

[@dopiejoe1258]

In the late 60's the Citizens Band radio was carved out of the Ham Radio Part of the frequency and given it's own band with 27 megahertz band. Pretty strict back then. Then the trucking industry adopted it for their use,(I was a trucker)to keep up with where the speed traps etc. were.Truckers still use them but not as much in the last few years.I know because I was a trucker for 20 yrs. A boyfriend of my sister was an electronic whiz and built me a Heathkit 5 channel CB back when I was 13 yrs. old. Later on I became a trucker and retired about 3 yrs. ago.Still got some CB's. 72 yrs.old now.

[@FarpointFarms]

Good info. Thanks!

[@joshchilders-fy1pk]

You did not say anything about the hundred to. thousand watts amplifiers that everyone are using. Fcc gave up on this year's ago. There worried about much bigger things. If you don't have a amp you don't have nothing. This is what you need to be talking about

[@FarpointFarms]

I disagree 100%. I don't use an amp and I talk all over the US and Canada.

[@rustyholt6619]

i have gotten and abandoned cb radios about once a decade or so since there was still a license for cbs... love the chatter ,hate the liniers and hars an discontent❤

[@FarpointFarms]

I don't hear much hate these days on air. Maybe it's my area.

[@bendeleted9155]

Is that intro a piece of a full song?

[@bendeleted9155]

Found it. I didn't realize it was yours. Nice work sir. 👍

[@FarpointFarms]

Glad you found it!

[@warchild57]

E an old realistic trc 415. My grandson is having a lot of fun with it. Is there a way to bump up modulation or just getting more out of it? Love your channel and thanks for good quality, family friendly content 👍

[@FarpointFarms]

There are people that can tune even those older radios, but I am no expert on it.

[@TREMERE1]

Great video. My main problem with my late 70's/early 80's Cobras (148 GTL AND 142 GTL) is finding someone who works on them. They've been sitting for quite a while, and need to be checked out for operation.

[@FarpointFarms]

Sadly it is becoming an issue with some of these older radios.

[@Tykoon]

Thanks for this intro to CB. I guess one needs a License to transmit on CB? If so, what do you recommend as a receiver-only for non-licensed users (listeners) to CB?

[@FarpointFarms]

No! There is no license for CB radio!! It's one of the best parts of the hobby. Buy one at a yard sale and get right on the air, no checks or codes needed.

[@georgethayer3533]

Hi Eric I like CB radio I am stil) using My cobra model 148 I've been using since the late 70s and a starduster antenna and I also have a radio in both of my vehicles have handhelds in both my vehicles thanks for all your good videos Eric keep up the good work I wish I was able to pick you up on the radio and be able to talk to you you're too far away I'm out in Northern California have a great day my brother God bless you and your family stay safe oldgeorge.

[@FarpointFarms]

Keep your radio on! I speak to folks in CA all the time!

[@psychonauthacker]

I apologize if you covered this material and I missed it I have watched so many videos on CB radios my brain is brimming with all sorts of information and disinformation. Do I need to have the amp connected when I test the SWR of my antenna? I purchased a CB and amp that have been tuned to each other but not the antenna. I am hooking it up to a 10 ft whip.

[@FarpointFarms]

yes you do- it will give you a more accurate result

[@psychonauthacker]

@@FarpointFarms thank you very much I appreciate the response

[@psychonauthacker]

I live in Springfield Oregon and I will be transmitting from up in the McKenzie. With any luck at all you might hear me. I just got back from camping up there and I was able to listen to people from Hawaii Texas Georgia and possibly New Zealand but I'm not sure if he was just joking.

[@FarpointFarms]

@@psychonauthacker Brother, you are not going to believe this, but I lived in Springfield and took my 1982 Chevy Citation up to McKenzie to talk on CB more than once. Great time in my life! That was back in 1994/5.

[@psychonauthacker]

@@FarpointFarms I love this area I keep getting drawn back. We camp directly across the reservoir from cougar Hot springs. The reservoir is empty now most of the time but at one point there was an island halfway between my camp spot and the trailhead for the hot springs. That area is my stomping ground.

[@Walker_328]

You are correct. Our local channel is 26.875 for whatever reason, and then 27.205 for the morning time group. Very aggravating for someone that cares about swr as much as me. A little more difficult to tune an antenna with that much spread in frequency.

[@FarpointFarms]

That is quite a spread. What are you able to get it down two on those channels?

[@rickymcdicky1469]

Hey this was really helpful. Probably the best video I’ve found! Thank you very much.

[@FarpointFarms]

Glad you found it helpful

[@edwardharrington678]

That was interesting especially how cheap the radios and kit are. In the UK where I live things are much more expensive. I was a self employed courier driving a small van all over the UK and had a CB because thee truckers would put out messages about delays or accidents quicker than what local radio stations did. In the UK CB is not as popular as it was but all heavy goods lorry drivers all have them.

[@FarpointFarms]

Thing are starting to spiral out of control here cost wise. Sad state we are in.

[@shyskeleton1665]

What! This will not help a beginner at all. Don t get me wrong its a very informational video but not for a beginner. I know some comments agreed it was. But you are talking about things a lot of new timers have no clue about. Like how do you talk to people or where would be the best place to put my antenna on my vehicle. Could it go on my hood or bumper or does it even matter. The main question is how do you use a cb once installed. What do the dials mean. Some of What you talked about most beginners won t understand. Not unless they have some kind of experience. Which is not a beginner.

[@FarpointFarms]

I have many other videos that go more in depth about those topics. To make a video that covers everything to it's conclusion would make for a mighty long video. This is an into to CB video.

[@whitepunch1392]

Was helping my uncle clean out a old mobile home and found a 102 stainless whip . I was pretty happy to say the least. Been using a lil Wilson on my f250 truck roof . Gonna put the whip on my ranger I think . Great video .

[@FarpointFarms]

That 102 is really going to impress you!

[@shanehough8439]

Thanks for this video and many others. I have a lot to learn but I just got my first cb today, a cobra 29 nw ltd classic from a junkyard for $15

[@FarpointFarms]

Glad I could help! You got a great deal on that CB!

[@jima5911]

😀thanks for all the great video

[@FarpointFarms]

You bet! I've got a whole series in the works.

[@duanebledsoe7566]

You can use a Jackery to power your radio also, and it is light weight and portable for off grid use, and can serve for other power needs as well (phone charging, lights, etc).

[@FarpointFarms]

great tip-

[@barneymm2204]

The antenna is no joke. I talked to a guy sixty miles away on four watts (because he couldn't see his radio clear enough to SSB) on the Antron before the wind claimed it.

[@FarpointFarms]

It's the number 1 reason for a good or bad signal. You can slap an amp on a crummy Antenna and still not match the performance of a good stock setup.

[@Caleb-et7js]

I have a 75 foot tall poured cement silo that is full of steel rerod and the ladder rungs are steel part of the structure could I just clamp a 102 whip on the top rung and use that for a base station antenna?

[@FarpointFarms]

It should work, but I would check the swr to make sure that it is low enough to use.