An excellent video Fred. I've been thinking of starting up again as I've more time on my hands nowadays (having retired). So this advice is welcome. It's good to know there are still folks out there on CB.
That sounds encouraging Fred. I remember you mentioning a blog in the video that's helpful in finding nets in various areas, so I'll look into that. Next, just a general (idiot) query about some of the rigs on sale new. I notice some am/fm/ssb radios are being offered with a higher power output (on request}, which sounds very attractive. Though I'm guessing the buyer takes responsibility for where they can legally be used.
Yes thats right. Legal power is 4 watts FM and AM and 12 watts SSB. Radios like the CRT 6900n can be provided with UK spec or export mode which gives you more power. Some radios can be put into export mode by simply holding down an extra button when you turn on. The legal side is down to the operator. In truth it is very rare for Ofcom to act against anyone using non approved equipment on the CB bands. About 95% of people i talk too are using non approved equipment.
My God! This takes me back to the good old days when I used to be on CB FM radio in Sussex. I had a Uniden Uniace 200 way back then. Used to go by the handle of Zanzibar!! Though I was often called Candybar for some odd reason!!?? :-)) I honestly thought CB radio died out all those years ago. From the 2nd November 1981 to Christmas day was wonderful. Then, of course, all the kids got their CB radios and it went a bit pear shaped. They hadn't a clue what or how to do anything and the language went pear shaped too. But we did have 53 great days on the CB before Christmas. How I miss those days...
Hi Yes i rem them days well. It was a golden time as you say before it all went pear shaped. A few of us about on the the old CB but it will never reach those heights again.
I run a Uniden Bearcat 980 SSB peaked tuned and aligned by Effingham radio. 7 watt dead key swinging 28 watts and a Wilson 5K antenna on my dump truck and that radio kills it guys are constantly telling me they can hear me 5 minutes before I get to the job and we work in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains! Sideband non-skip I've got out over 30 miles of course sideband is better at that but that 980 is awesome 👌 great video brother
I have just bought a full set up as I want to get back in to it.I'am going to buy a pole to hold my silver rod to and then going to get a man to bolt it to my house.I live in fife and there is another lady in my village on CB also thanks for all the information found it helpfully I don't drive so mines is a home set up I got a Rotel 40 ch and swr meter and a power pack and a silver rod which I hope to have up this week.Thanks again,
Interesting! I'm hearing CB groups on my receiver and thinking of getting a transceiver to join in. I just love radio...CB, SW, Marine, PMRS and maybe HF... I love it! Looking to do the foundation course to become licensed...and start my journey. Thanks for your video.
Sound advice and Info . Young gun... Hopefully.Back in the UK June 2020 depending on COVID 19 And the implications.. Will be doing a lot of wild camping , and will have a SS9900 Set up in the car during my travels.. Hope to QSO. With your station. 73"s best wishes 153-TM -001 .. Not sure what callsign I should use as a visitor. I will square that with 26 -TM -001 Enjoy the hobby...
Great Video, I was into CB during my teenage years set up in my Dads shed with a magmount (Super Modulator 2) on the roof! Ive just purchased a Uniden 200, and a thunderpole voyager ready to set up in my VW T4. I live in the west midlands so hopefully manage to contact some stations.
Very true. If the main power grid goes down most people will only have the battery in their cars. No internet, no mobile phone masts. CB will be the only way to find out whats going on.
fredintheshed1 , a Nuclear EMP, E1, E2 and E3 pulse will knock out much electronics in the event of a detonation Fred, older valve technology would stand a better chance but hey, im with you as a ham licensee id uses whatever i have even if it meant sending out sos using a wire antenna and a 9volt battery from the smoke alarm! Keep up the great work and vids my friend 👍
Nice video Fred. For anyone reading this in Australia, we use UHF CB radio, even out bush, with nobody on 28MHz anymore. There are multiple UHF repeaters all over the country and a decent one will get your signal out more than 100kms
fredintheshed1 here is one of many databases/sites of UHF repeaters all over Australia. As you can see from the map image there is lots of them secure.tropinet.com/uhf-repeaters/
Yep, yep, the folks here in the UK don't really understand what the advances are of the Australian UHF CB. They are stuck on 27 mc. I still got 6 UHF CB handy talkies I took when I left Penrith, NSW ;)
I do and always have loved the old radios and was an avid collector. I sold up around five years ago because most of the local radio community were unemployed and very anti-work, always swearing and plain lazy. It annoyed me and my girlfriend so much with the bad attitudes, swearing, in fighting and general childish behaviour that we sold the lot. Jumbo’s galaxy pluto, mustangs, Danita, cobra’s, midland and many more. All boxed and mint as new. I still miss the things and really enjoy your videos so keep it up and I’ll keep watching. Take care and keep it alive.
Great video. I have a base station CB (Johnson Messenger 250) in the Adirondacks in New York State, and I'm getting an A99 today. My great grandfather (Silver Fox) had a CB setup there and I believe his antenna was up on a pole that we still have.
cheers Fred there was loads of useful information in that video. i think that will b really helpful to people wanting to get either back into cb or even people wanting to try it for the first time. plenty of helpful hints and tips there.
Old skool my first radio was a midland 2010 with a sadelta echo chamber then a amstrad with a roger bleep all on with a silver then upgraded to a cobra 148 then went to a uniden 2830 with a antron 99 and a zetagi bv300 amp still have it some were in the loft I think
First thanks for all the advice you have given me.Now I finally got my Silver Rod on the side of the house which I have been told is really high a friend came to my house and set up my rig we found out that my mic had a damaged white wire so it would not work just as well I had a eco mic as a back-up which worked after I found out it needed a battery plus I had a swr meter which didn't work to well so my friend brought his one up to set my rig up.Looks like I do need a burner so that is my next item to buy which means I have spent £202 for my Rig,Aerial and pole and having it installed on my house and buying a burner which seems not to bad.I'am planning to buy a new CB but only if it makes sense in the future.I will keep you updated on how I do with my new hobbie and thanks.
An update video on this topic would be good? It was am when I started out in cb but it caused quite a few interference problems! I thought about going in for ham radio but cb sounds good to get back into the hobby! I used to do dxing on the side bands and got out to many countries around the world with a small burner (amp)!
I also like SSB 11 meters. Have been getting skip coming in all week. Examples are over on my sister channel ruclips.net/channel/UCneZ-OD97rGektrH7SwdadQ
Another good starter video Fred. I don't think you mentioned SSB though not good if you re mobile. That Radio nasty radio was sold by Amstrad as Amstrad 1000, the 2000 was a better radio as it had a Cybernetics chassis, good old Mr Sugar.
Brilliant, thankyou.Very excited about getting my first CB radio. You sold me on the Grant 2, so will probably spend that bit more,so I have a more multifunctional radio. Also a new Subscriber to your channel. Many thanks :)
I bought the Sharmans 5A power supply which was £35.95 from this company I hope this was the right one as I used the link you gave me.I have bought the Cobra 29LX for £112.97 from ebay and I bought the amplifier burner RM KL 203P at £48.99 from ebay which you recommended.It has cost me £197.91 in total but next year I will up-grade to a CRT SS990.Thanks for all your help I will keep you up-dated on how it goes.
Hi Karl. I fully replied on the other comment. The 5 amp supply is safe and perfect for the Cobra but it will not be able to run the 203 amp ;-( You going to need a bigger one for that. Have a look at the link below.
Yea I know that now but I will keep the Amp just in case I ever need it.Or if I buy a bigger power supply in the future.I'am planning to upgrade to the CRT SS9900 after I learn to use my CB again but I won't be buying tthat for at least a year or more.
Important to note the US and UK rules for CB radio may differ, in the US CB radio (11 meters) is limited to 4 watts AM with SSB optional and is widely used by long haul truck drivers. There may still be some groups around but most have gone away or are ham operators or GMRS users now. So in the US you are not allowed to use actual Ham radios on the 40 CB radio channels because those radios are not type accepted and are over the power limits.
NP, you'd be surprised how many people here order "export" radios and use them illegally because they output 30 watts or have "extra channels". Same problem we have with those Baofeng handhelds and people using them on those FRS channels
The same in the UK / EU, only approved CB transceivers can be used on the CB bands. A quick look at the shack of Fred means that most kit he uses is illegal (FT-450, DX77 and SS-9900). Also to note is that your NOT allowed to use other modes then EU / UK in the UK. So using the PL (Poland) mode in the UK is illegal.
Hi, I see the last comment was a year ago. I've just bought a handheld to get back into it. No-one's out there these days.I'm doing a little motorway driving tomorrow, so we'll see if even truckers still use them. sad really.
Yes its not what it once was in its hey day. I live not to far from a motorway and you can hear trucker chat on the FM 19 during the day. Nowadays its often arranged meets on air at certain times of the day. Ive just done an hour on 27.305 USB and they still talking now.
I haven't spoken to anyone yet. I'm not even sure I'm using the right settings. When I had one years ago and there was only an on/off, channel and squelch. these hand heads are fully digital theres too many options. Don't quite know what to do now.
Hi Fred I’ve watched a few of your videos now and see you often recommend the 6900, does it have any benefits over the president grant or is it just personal choice / value? Cheers
Hard to say if its worth it as it depends on your area. CB has picked up over lockdown. I made a later video on equipment. ruclips.net/video/QYq2tl2QW7w/видео.html
if your high up and get high winds you can not go wrong with a silver rod if you still can get one sigma 4 i could talk midlands to wales on 4 watt 4 am in the morning s9 no trouble but im high up
Hello, I have never used a CB but I have just bought one and no idea what I am doing lol. AM/FM ? I now live in Spain and unsure wether to use fm or am. It has 40 EU and 40 UK
I am not really sure what the Spanish use but its more likely to be AM. Best to flick around the EU channels. Might be worth looking into picking up a cheap used Spanish radio. Do you have Ebay Spain ?
Nice on Fred. Rig wise I know it's not strictly kosher but a pre programmed CRE8900 or superstar 6900N for £130 are superb value. Might be worth also covering how to setup mobile and how to power a rig in a mobile set up in a future video? 73s Tim
The 6900N has great reports. Pukka Dave (TM061) just got one himself and sounds great. You can hear him on my video here. ruclips.net/video/QepmAFPNakE/видео.html
when i decided to get back into the hobby i got all the little bits but tbh uk40 cb is rubbish around here and the antenna might aswell been a coat hanger. i wish i would of saved the extra cash and went for the multimode but hey you learn. and as i said earlier you would get most you money back of a multimode anyway if cb aint for you.
Yeah i kinda wish i started with the Grant 2 and SSB. However it was a learning curve getting back on the air so i prob was not ready. People want to dip their toes in the water without massive outlay and the little CRT One radio is a great buy for around £46 del on the Bay.
i bought one of those for 38 quid. wasnt when i first got back into radio. it was further down the line and just liked the look of it. tbh it was one of the best 40s ive ever used.
Not really sure. It may around sold under a different make like Siro etc. Bit like the old GPA now a silver rod. Most popular are the Gainmaster and Antron 99.
Yes you can put up a mobile antenna in a attic if its tall enough. You would need some metal sheet to act as a ground plane. Some people have made an inverted V dipole to run on the roof beams and they work well.
Hi Fred, just found one of my old CB radios, and after watching you RUclips videos need to see if I can get anything out of it. Could you advise on a base station twig?
I need our help BIG TIME..I bought that cobra 29LX and the Sharmans power pack as recommended by you.Now the problem is the Cobra came with a power cord for a car lighter but I wanted it for home so my friend cut the lighter adaptor off then we cut and twisted the wires to fit around the terminals on the power pack and we switched it on now the CB powers up for a second the it goes off.Every time we put the power pack on the CB lights up for a second then goes off can you help need help what happening.
I sent back the Cobra t'onight by recorded delivery cost me £14.75 which the seller will refund he is also replacing the CB with another when it arrives.I will keep you updated when I get my replacement.
He sounds a decent sort. Hopefully he will run a test on the new one before sending it. I think once you get a fully working radio you will be pleased. Its a lot of radio for the money, looks good as well. Dont forget to tune around the euro bands when the skip is in.
I put on my CB today but nothing the power pack was on but no power to the CB there is a fuse in the back of the power pack and I wonder if that is the problem anyway I have decided to buy all NEW so I have just saw your comment about a Multiband SSB Rig can you suggest one and a power pack to honest I should have bought new from the start.I will try and find if it is the fuse which is causing the problem.Once again thanks for all your advice.OR should I buy a better power pack as the one I have looks old with no information on it.
Hi Mate. When you choose a SSB radio you need to decided if your going to run a small in line amp (burner) or if you are going to use straight power from the radio. Also most SSB radio's are not UK legal so thats another choice. Either way your going to be looking at around £200 - 300 with a new PSU. Staying legal and buying new is harder than you think. Prob the President Grant 2 is the best choice. Its gives just 4w FM and AM but 12 Watts SSB. In truth to get the best out of this set up your prob going to need a small amp (illegal) which will set you back another £50. Thats top end. A good started radio is the CRT 6900N or the Alinco 135. These are 10 meter radio's but have useful channel displays. They are powerful enough not to need a additional amp. Finally the most powerful is the CRT SS9900 or Anytone 6666. As in my latest video you will see that these are more of a 10 meter ham radio than a cb so there is a learning curve. Finally you could go "all out" and spend your £300 on a used HF radio like the Alinco DX77 in my videos. No channels but you can save the 40 channel freq in memory.
No problem. I would say that one of the best starting legal CB,s is the Cobra 29 LX-EU. As well as FM AM it has all the euro channels programmed in as well. Only down side is that being legal you will find that you will need an amp at some point. I will send you some links on the next few comments.
Hey there, Denver Colorado here. I have the Cobra LX Camo. I have an Antron99 being delivered Monday. Could you tell me what diameter pipe you mounted yours on? I like your vids. Your setup looks awesome!.
When the A99 arrived the box was damaged and the U-bolt kit was gone. I had to wait a week for Solarcon to send a new set. I called the city about height rules. 35 feet at the tip is all I am allowed. A friend is coming next Sunday to put it on my roof. I'm in a wheelchair so I wait and I wait and I ect.........
LOL i meant Buddy on the last comment LOL. Sounds like your on your way. My first Antron had a badly made middle section and i had to send that back so i feel your pain. If your height restricted you may want to consider the FireUp firestick upgrade top section as it makes the Antenna slightly shorter, improves stability in wind and increases signal range on DX. All best from the UK.
Ha ha. I thought the nickname was a silly British thing. I know they can be quite strange, because I are one :). My grandfather came to the states from Carlisle. My last name is Pound (see?) I've always been very proud of my English heritage. I did see your vid about the damaged A99. Thats always been my luck too. I looked for a Fire Up after I saw your vid. I only saw them in the U.K. I need to search further. I am going to make a vid of my old whip ant. I built and the new A99. Prolly get me little radio in there too. I will keep you posted. 73 from The Mile "High" City. Gitz.
OK buddy. The fire up kit is only a basic 11m firestick antenna thats been slightly cut back. Before Thunderpole began selling them people made there own and that where the idea came from.
Hi Fred yes they sent me a link i’ve managed to login but they said I should put a little bit of information about myself but I cannot do this for some reason thank you forgetting back to me.Ivan
Ok i guess i may take a while for the reg to be activated. I think they like a bit of information before they issue a CT number. I seem to recall that taking a few days to come through.
Hi Fred I’m hoping you may be up to help me I’ve registered on the Charlie Tango website and I message back asking me to introduce myself and told him little bit about me but for some reason I can find a way of entering the text sent can you help me please mate thanks in advance.
really useful vid mate..... two questions. you recommended that i get the voyager. i went to order it and then found the red devil!! is it worth the extra couple of quid? also as you may recall i currently have a mini springer, that is constantly getting whacked by overhead objects would a shock spring help avoid damage on the voyager or red devil or does it need removing everytime i drive under a low flying pigeon? thanks again for a great vid 73s and 88s
I think the Red Devil is worth the little bit extra with its larger bottom loading coil. The springer will help take the worse out of a knock. The other two's whip will flex but getting hit all the time will eventually snap the threaded mount.
Following your Maxcom 7E videos, I've since picked one up myself, and have a real urge to get hold of an old Midland Portapak, but not found one yet. I am toying with the idea of building my own 21st century Portapak using a CRT One as seen in this video, somewhat inspired by your mate's bike set up. I am pretty sure all the parts (battery case for 10 AA's, antenna connections etc) can be bought for a few quid on eBay, and the hardest part would be a case to put it all in...but then my wife is a seamstress. Would be interested to hear if you think this would work?
@@CB-RADIO-UK Really That would be perfect, thought I was going to have to make do with one of those 53cm handheld whips! Think I will have a go at this just for fun.
Hi Fred! Thanks for the information. Great help . I to would like to get back into the CB scene . I am a licensed amature radio op but find it too crusty for my liking and a bit pricey too. Looks like you get a lot of CB radio for your cash. Anyway thanks 73
Hi David. Many of the people on my video's are licensed but like to drift on to the dark side. Its a lot more relaxed but we still try to make it proper radio on SSB without all swearing you can pick up on FM. Multiband 10m radio's like the CRT 6900 and 9900 offer a big bang for the buck and work surprisingly well on DX.
fredintheshed1 I used to be on back in the 90's and 2000's / I had multibands I used to go mobile up on the hills around Macclesfield and Stockport and towards Bolton way all over there , u showed a home base fidelity I had one lol , I've had kenwood multiband, ,reacently I had a land rover a couple years ago but saved my cb radio am in Suffolk now ,it is a CRT S MINI am & fm and basic when I used to do green laneing
Oh I also I had a siror I think a 3000 , very good , back in the day ,I am thinking of putting it into my van just need a mag mount I have a small spring Ariel , but might get another siriro lol good videos amazing set up
The 4000 and 5000 are the pick of the bunch for Sirio. The CRT SS6900N with full USB and LSB is a great budget radio. SSB is where the action is when the skip is in.
Well I got a full replacement CB and we had it up and running but all I'am getting is static and yes it was set the right way we are getting nothing we followed the instructions page by page and still nothing we thought it might be my metal shed so we took it in doors but still nothing .We think it must be where I stay I'am getting nothing so now I have all this brand new gear which I now have to sell at least I will get most of my money back I'am planning to sell it all on facebook cost me well over £200 but I will take a slight loss so selling for £200 and postage of £20.
It's a Silver Rod and it clears the house ok remember I bought it with the old Rotel CB.Plus I have found out there is not many people up here using CBs much.
Fred- loves the video. Thank you. My brother lives about 70 miles away. Is there a handheld CB device that I can use to talk with him. Also, could I have. Third handset for another person near me to join any conversations?
US use AM as their main CB band and UK use FM. Some US radio's do not come with the UK 40 FM band. President and Cobra make radio's for the UK but are normally branded EU.
I have not had a CB for more than 20 yrs and at the time I didn't have it long so I'am a complete novice you said about a small burner can you suggest one for me.Plus about getting a handle I joined the Official Charlie Tango DX group on facebook you spoke about applying for a CB handle.What happens if they give you a handle you don't like or want as I'am a big cigar smoker and well known on a few cigar pages on facebook so I was looking for a handle like CIGARMAN or the Mad Scotsman as I'am known as.Can you advise me on these two questions.Plus if I buy a burner do I still need the SWR meter.I will more than likely pick your brains further.Thanks.
No prob Karl. Firstly i would apply for a free Charlie Tango call sign number. Its not a handle buddy. If you want to use a handle then you can make one up yourself. A SWR meter is important to fine tune your antenna as if it is too high (say over 3.0) you can risk damage to the radio when you transmit. A small burner amp will boost your signal from 4 watts up to a claimed 100. However in reality prob more like 60 + . I will add an ebay link after this comment but look to spend around £50.
His talking crap. most new radios have a SWR meter built in but you have to fine tune the antenna for the best SWR. If it goes over 3 power will be feed back to the radio and can cause damage.
I am not sure on those. A SWR meter and patch lead is around £15 and well worth the money. Not only is it to protect your radio but if your setting up a mobile radio it will help you find the best place for the antenna. The lower the SWR the more power your transmitting.
@@CB-RADIO-UK can you recommend an antenna to go on my sprinter van and would i be best with a mag mount or a bracket ? would i also need a spring and would it be best on the roof or mirror etc ?
Hey Fred. This is a yank over here in United States. I wonder if you could steer me to someone that would send me a UK FM CB radio? Of course I would pay for the cost of the shipping if it’s even feasible. What are you call 27/81 I think
I’ve been a Cb fan from the 70s on the old am. I went and got my first legal radio I’ve been trying for a C T call sign but couldn’t get any sense from them and gave up I love Cb radio but it’s not very good in my area they’re just a lot of idiots who don’t take it seriously.
Hi my man I’m looking for some sound advise and you look clued in. I have never been in to cb but in this day and age of fines for using mobiles I want to install a cb in my MX5 for road trip coms car to car. I want something small like the crt one but have 0 clue on set up. Clear 2 mile range is my objective but I don’t want a massive areal turning my mx5 in to a radio control car😂. I know height is key but since range is not my objective I was thinking of concealing the thunder pole on the hollow spoiler of my car. John Mor if my fb and Mx5megajohn is my Instagram.
Hi. CB antennas need air space to work properly. If they are too close to a solid object part of the signal gets reflected back to the radio causing a high SWR. This will really shorten the range and can cause damage to the radio. Finally CB antennas work best vertical so in a spoiler not so good. For car to car over a short range ( not 2 miles though) you might get away with a PMR radio such as the Baofeng UV5R
Hi me again we think it's the CB to blame it's not powering up as the new power pack is working my old Rotel so we know it's not the power pack to blame.
I bought the cobra 29lx and the Sharmans power pack as recommend.Now the problem is the Cobra came with a power cord for a car lighter but I wanted It for my home so my friend cut the lighter adaptor off then he cut and twisted the wires to fit around the terminals on the power pack and we switched it on and the CB powers up for a second then it goes off and nothing.Have we done something wrong.
Yeah just seen the other message. This is not a common fault. Basic things first. You have a standard 3 pin Uniden style power plug that goes in the back. They can be stiff. Pull it out and check that the 3 pins on the radio are not bent and that the plug is going right in. As the radio is new i would contact the seller and tell them of the problem asap. It sounds like it may have a fault.
We thought there was a problem.Yes it was stiff the three pins are not bent so there must be a problem I have already contacted the seller he is phoning me tomorrow.
An excellent video Fred. I've been thinking of starting up again as I've more time on my hands nowadays (having retired). So this advice is welcome. It's good to know there are still folks out there on CB.
Hi David. Some areas are very quite but just turned on today and found 3 groups chatting around my area.
That sounds encouraging Fred. I remember you mentioning a blog in the video that's helpful in finding nets in various areas, so I'll look into that. Next, just a general (idiot) query about some of the rigs on sale new. I notice some am/fm/ssb radios are being offered with a higher power output (on request}, which sounds very attractive. Though I'm guessing the buyer takes responsibility for where they can legally be used.
Yes thats right. Legal power is 4 watts FM and AM and 12 watts SSB. Radios like the CRT 6900n can be provided with UK spec or export mode which gives you more power. Some radios can be put into export mode by simply holding down an extra button when you turn on. The legal side is down to the operator. In truth it is very rare for Ofcom to act against anyone using non approved equipment on the CB bands. About 95% of people i talk too are using non approved equipment.
Very informative for those starting out mate! Thanks a lot for putting this up!
My God! This takes me back to the good old days when I used to be on CB FM radio in Sussex. I had a Uniden Uniace 200 way back then. Used to go by the handle of Zanzibar!! Though I was often called Candybar for some odd reason!!?? :-))
I honestly thought CB radio died out all those years ago.
From the 2nd November 1981 to Christmas day was wonderful.
Then, of course, all the kids got their CB radios and it went a bit pear shaped. They hadn't a clue what or how to do anything and the language went pear shaped too.
But we did have 53 great days on the CB before Christmas. How I miss those days...
Hi Yes i rem them days well. It was a golden time as you say before it all went pear shaped. A few of us about on the the old CB but it will never reach those heights again.
when i staerted in cb way back when i used a walki talky with 4 watts output. for long range i used a coxial diapole antenna. fun.
Very helpful - just getting back into radio. Last into to in the 80’s.
I run a Uniden Bearcat 980 SSB peaked tuned and aligned by Effingham radio. 7 watt dead key swinging 28 watts and a Wilson 5K antenna on my dump truck and that radio kills it guys are constantly telling me they can hear me 5 minutes before I get to the job and we work in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains! Sideband non-skip I've got out over 30 miles of course sideband is better at that but that 980 is awesome 👌 great video brother
I have just bought a full set up as I want to get back in to it.I'am going to buy a pole to hold my silver rod to and then going to get a man to bolt it to my house.I live in fife and there is another lady in my village on CB also thanks for all the information found it helpfully I don't drive so mines is a home set up I got a Rotel 40 ch and swr meter and a power pack and a silver rod which I hope to have up this week.Thanks again,
Cheers Karl. The silver rod on the house should get you out just fine. The next step may be a small burner for a little more range. Have fun buddy.
Interesting! I'm hearing CB groups on my receiver and thinking of getting a transceiver to join in. I just love radio...CB, SW, Marine, PMRS and maybe HF... I love it! Looking to do the foundation course to become licensed...and start my journey. Thanks for your video.
What a fantastic video for a beginner, very helpful thank you
You're very welcome!
Sound advice and Info . Young gun... Hopefully.Back in the UK June 2020 depending on COVID 19 And the implications.. Will be doing a lot of wild camping , and will have a SS9900 Set up in the car during my travels.. Hope to QSO. With your station. 73"s best wishes 153-TM -001 .. Not sure what callsign I should use as a visitor. I will square that with 26 -TM -001 Enjoy the hobby...
Thanks and good luck for contacts
Great Video, I was into CB during my teenage years set up in my Dads shed with a magmount (Super Modulator 2) on the roof! Ive just purchased a Uniden 200, and a thunderpole voyager ready to set up in my VW T4. I live in the west midlands so hopefully manage to contact some stations.
Hope you get some action buddy.
14 a copy lol I think we should all obtain a cb radio just in case the net goes down when civil war happens it will be our only way to communicate ?
Very true. If the main power grid goes down most people will only have the battery in their cars. No internet, no mobile phone masts. CB will be the only way to find out whats going on.
fredintheshed1 , a Nuclear EMP, E1, E2 and E3 pulse will knock out much electronics in the event of a detonation Fred, older valve technology would stand a better chance but hey, im with you as a ham licensee id uses whatever i have even if it meant sending out sos using a wire antenna and a 9volt battery from the smoke alarm! Keep up the great work and vids my friend 👍
@@Macro-photographer LB8 ju m
I’m Starting out and you have gave me the advice and confidence required
Sounds like your possibly from the north east aswell! Many thanks!
Thanks Phillip. Glad to help you get started. I was born in North London :-)
good video and thanks for showing my post on C T I went for the ham licence first now that's completed going for the CB next ☺163CT171 73s
Nice video Fred. For anyone reading this in Australia, we use UHF CB radio, even out bush, with nobody on 28MHz anymore. There are multiple UHF repeaters all over the country and a decent one will get your signal out more than 100kms
Nice one on the repeaters. Pity we have none on 27 mhz here in Blighty. :-(
fredintheshed1 here is one of many databases/sites of UHF repeaters all over Australia. As you can see from the map image there is lots of them
secure.tropinet.com/uhf-repeaters/
Yep, yep, the folks here in the UK don't really understand what the advances are of the Australian UHF CB. They are stuck on 27 mc. I still got 6 UHF CB handy talkies I took when I left Penrith, NSW ;)
I do and always have loved the old radios and was an avid collector.
I sold up around five years ago because most of the local radio community were unemployed and very anti-work, always swearing and plain lazy.
It annoyed me and my girlfriend so much with the bad attitudes, swearing, in fighting and general childish behaviour that we sold the lot. Jumbo’s galaxy pluto, mustangs, Danita, cobra’s, midland and many more. All boxed and mint as new.
I still miss the things and really enjoy your videos so keep it up and I’ll keep watching.
Take care and keep it alive.
Got my callsign 26CT480, glad I did now, I use 3 radios, Danita Muilti 3000 opened up 400 channels, Any tone AT-5555, Icom-718
Great vid again Fred was surprised to see my little Midland rig I had for sale on ebay
Hi Paul. LOL was that yours. Photos grabbed from a Google search.
Great video. I have a base station CB (Johnson Messenger 250) in the Adirondacks in New York State, and I'm getting an A99 today. My great grandfather (Silver Fox) had a CB setup there and I believe his antenna was up on a pole that we still have.
Great stuff. Hope you get set up and have some contacts soon.
fredintheshed1 Thanks man!
I have ordered two CB radios a Midland and a thunderpole 1000 (van / car)
Thank you very much mate you’ve been a big help keep making videos there dam good and have a great weekend.😎
Pleasure mate. Have a good weekend also.
Thanks for this, learned a lot. I'm surprised how cheap things are, even those top end antenna
cheers Fred there was loads of useful information in that video. i think that will b really helpful to people wanting to get either back into cb or even people wanting to try it for the first time. plenty of helpful hints and tips there.
Thanks Gary. Hopefully it may help a few to get started and not fly out and order the first thing they see on Ebay.
fredintheshed1 i agree Fred i hope so too
fredintheshed1 hey Fred I'm sorry for not watching nice vid on time I was playing with my mates
Lost 1st place buddy. Nice to have you on board.
fredintheshed1 board what
Old skool my first radio was a midland 2010 with a sadelta echo chamber then a amstrad with a roger bleep all on with a silver then upgraded to a cobra 148 then went to a uniden 2830 with a antron 99 and a zetagi bv300 amp still have it some were in the loft I think
I used to have a yearly license back in day did the job perfectly
Yes i rem them.
Nice setup on the bike 🚲 ☺
If you do not want that piece of crap radio I would like it. A great video to help any one starting a new hobby Fred
First thanks for all the advice you have given me.Now I finally got my Silver Rod on the side of the house which I have been told is really high a friend came to my house and set up my rig we found out that my mic had a damaged white wire so it would not work just as well I had a eco mic as a back-up which worked after I found out it needed a battery plus I had a swr meter which didn't work to well so my friend brought his one up to set my rig up.Looks like I do need a burner so that is my next item to buy which means I have spent £202 for my Rig,Aerial and pole and having it installed on my house and buying a burner which seems not to bad.I'am planning to buy a new CB but only if it makes sense in the future.I will keep you updated on how I do with my new hobbie and thanks.
Sounds like your well on your way karl. Next step would be a multiband SSB rig :-)
An update video on this topic would be good? It was am when I started out in cb but it caused quite a few interference problems! I thought about going in for ham radio but cb sounds good to get back into the hobby! I used to do dxing on the side bands and got out to many countries around the world with a small burner (amp)!
I also like SSB 11 meters. Have been getting skip coming in all week. Examples are over on my sister channel ruclips.net/channel/UCneZ-OD97rGektrH7SwdadQ
Brilliant! Thanks so much for this 👍
Will start looking into it!
Glad it was helpful!
Another good starter video Fred. I don't think you mentioned SSB though not good if you re mobile. That Radio nasty radio was sold by Amstrad as Amstrad 1000, the 2000 was a better radio as it had a Cybernetics chassis, good old Mr Sugar.
Brilliant, thankyou.Very excited about getting my first CB radio. You sold me on the Grant 2, so will probably spend that bit more,so I have a more multifunctional radio. Also a new Subscriber to your channel. Many thanks :)
Glad I could help
Dont forget the President McKinley which is an upgrade on the Grant 2
@@CB-RADIO-UK Ok. Thanks very much. Will check it out also :)
Nice video Fred. Enjoy your videos. I'm in Ontario Canada near Niagara Falls
Hi Trevor.
Awesome. I like the Cobra LX EU. I may purchase one and ty it out.
I know I’ve commented on your setup before in the past, but wanted to compliment you on it, very nice indeed 👍🏻
Thanks Bobby. Made from cheap materials.
I bought the Sharmans 5A power supply which was £35.95 from this company I hope this was the right one as I used the link you gave me.I have bought the Cobra 29LX for £112.97 from ebay and I bought the amplifier burner RM KL 203P at £48.99 from ebay which you recommended.It has cost me £197.91 in total but next year I will up-grade to a CRT SS990.Thanks for all your help I will keep you up-dated on how it goes.
Hi Karl. I fully replied on the other comment. The 5 amp supply is safe and perfect for the Cobra but it will not be able to run the 203 amp ;-( You going to need a bigger one for that. Have a look at the link below.
ruclips.net/video/ryzclyBQixI/видео.html
Nice supply but more money. The meters are good. ruclips.net/video/-mU0JIR68PM/видео.html
Yea I know that now but I will keep the Amp just in case I ever need it.Or if I buy a bigger power supply in the future.I'am planning to upgrade to the CRT SS9900 after I learn to use my CB again but I won't be buying tthat for at least a year or more.
Sounds like a plan. Be sure to scan all the euro channels on the Cobra when the bands are open. The Itals are plain crazy LOL.
Important to note the US and UK rules for CB radio may differ, in the US CB radio (11 meters) is limited to 4 watts AM with SSB optional and is widely used by long haul truck drivers. There may still be some groups around but most have gone away or are ham operators or GMRS users now.
So in the US you are not allowed to use actual Ham radios on the 40 CB radio channels because those radios are not type accepted and are over the power limits.
Some good points. Thanks for the info.
NP, you'd be surprised how many people here order "export" radios and use them illegally because they output 30 watts or have "extra channels".
Same problem we have with those Baofeng handhelds and people using them on those FRS channels
The same in the UK / EU, only approved CB transceivers can be used on the CB bands. A quick look at the shack of Fred means that most kit he uses is illegal (FT-450, DX77 and SS-9900). Also to note is that your NOT allowed to use other modes then EU / UK in the UK. So using the PL (Poland) mode in the UK is illegal.
In the USA we are only allowed AM @ 4 watts and LSB or USB @ 12 watts PEP in the 11 meters CB band.
nice video mate,very interesting cheers
Very helpful video, thank you :)
Hi, I see the last comment was a year ago. I've just bought a handheld to get back into it. No-one's out there these days.I'm doing a little motorway driving tomorrow, so we'll see if even truckers still use them. sad really.
Yes its not what it once was in its hey day. I live not to far from a motorway and you can hear trucker chat on the FM 19 during the day. Nowadays its often arranged meets on air at certain times of the day. Ive just done an hour on 27.305 USB and they still talking now.
I haven't spoken to anyone yet. I'm not even sure I'm using the right settings. When I had one years ago and there was only an on/off, channel and squelch. these hand heads are fully digital theres too many options. Don't quite know what to do now.
Good VT there FRED, keep it up & you will have to start your own forum :-)All the best 1664 / 2037 👍
Hi Fred I’ve watched a few of your videos now and see you often recommend the 6900, does it have any benefits over the president grant or is it just personal choice / value? Cheers
Slightly more power from the 6900. The Grant is built better but my early version suffered from noise.
moved here from Australia we use uhf in the 4x4 but what is the best kit and is it worth it here in the uk?
Hard to say if its worth it as it depends on your area. CB has picked up over lockdown. I made a later video on equipment. ruclips.net/video/QYq2tl2QW7w/видео.html
if your high up and get high winds you can not go wrong with a silver rod if you still can get one sigma 4 i could talk midlands to wales on 4 watt 4 am in the morning s9 no trouble but im high up
Hello, I have never used a CB but I have just bought one and no idea what I am doing lol. AM/FM ? I now live in Spain and unsure wether to use fm or am. It has 40 EU and 40 UK
I am not really sure what the Spanish use but its more likely to be AM. Best to flick around the EU channels. Might be worth looking into picking up a cheap used Spanish radio. Do you have Ebay Spain ?
Nice on Fred. Rig wise I know it's not strictly kosher but a pre programmed CRE8900 or superstar 6900N for £130 are superb value. Might be worth also covering how to setup mobile and how to power a rig in a mobile set up in a future video? 73s Tim
Tim H im going to be looking out for a 6900.... where are they for 130?
Radiozing
Tim H cheers 👍
No probs currently £127.99 pre programmed with no USB or £137.99 pre prog with a USB sounds a good deal to me 👍
The 6900N has great reports. Pukka Dave (TM061) just got one himself and sounds great. You can hear him on my video here. ruclips.net/video/QepmAFPNakE/видео.html
Fred do you have a diagram of the actual 3/8 connector. Great vid 73s 26CT4015.
Hi no afraid not.
@@CB-RADIO-UK thanks Fred
I always suggest getting a myltimode straight off more chance of getting out and easier to re sell
Yes it makes sense if your going to stick with the hobby.
when i decided to get back into the hobby i got all the little bits but tbh uk40 cb is rubbish around here and the antenna might aswell been a coat hanger. i wish i would of saved the extra cash and went for the multimode but hey you learn. and as i said earlier you would get most you money back of a multimode anyway if cb aint for you.
Yeah i kinda wish i started with the Grant 2 and SSB. However it was a learning curve getting back on the air so i prob was not ready. People want to dip their toes in the water without massive outlay and the little CRT One radio is a great buy for around £46 del on the Bay.
i bought one of those for 38 quid. wasnt when i first got back into radio. it was further down the line and just liked the look of it. tbh it was one of the best 40s ive ever used.
Trying to find Fred in shed 2 where is it located
Hi Gary. ruclips.net/channel/UCneZ-OD97rGektrH7SwdadQ
fred ive been away from radio ham for over 20 years im a class 2 g7 can i use hf now i think laws have changed
Not legally. Many do but i would not transmit your callsign.
The antenna of choice when I was active (about 1978-1982) was the good old DV27. Do they exist anymore?
Not really sure. It may around sold under a different make like Siro etc. Bit like the old GPA now a silver rod. Most popular are the Gainmaster and Antron 99.
I still have my original DV27, a new never used Silver rod and radios.
Hell my homebase mount is still on the house wall
Hi I’ve got a side band radio a president grant I but I don’t have any room for a home base antenna cause I’d like to set up at home.
What about a T2LT on a fiberglass pole that you could set up and put away when not required. See video below.
ruclips.net/video/lwbT4ZX6514/видео.html
I just got my thunderpole 1000 and I terrified how to fit it in my car! so many videos
Do you need to drill holes then ?
Love your setup
Cheers
Thanks for the video. Some good tips there!
Welcome.
I've got a Midland 4001 had it since 1989 but I've no antenna I'll look up ct website
Hi Phil. Yes check out the CT website and Facebook page.
Lots of good information here about antennas:
charlietango.co.uk/aerials-rf-qrm-section-f52/
can these poles be put up in the attic . I have an attic in a one story house on a hill near a highway, would an antenna work well there?
Yes you can put up a mobile antenna in a attic if its tall enough. You would need some metal sheet to act as a ground plane. Some people have made an inverted V dipole to run on the roof beams and they work well.
come to yorkshire, everyone has CB radios there mostly on car and tractors and for agricultural use but its funny when you get lots of people on it.
Hi. Yes a bit like in Norfolk where i heard lots of farm traffic on FM. However they were not keen an chatting much :-(
aye not too often there much going on but sometimes especially in summer and there contractors about it can be manic
Good to listen though. Tractor chat is is great when iam on hols. :-)
Hi Fred, just found one of my old CB radios, and after watching you RUclips videos need to see if I can get anything out of it. Could you advise on a base station twig?
Budget choice a "Silver Rod" will serve you well. In a video i did a while back the Sirio 2016 came out fav. I use a Antron 99
fredintheshed1 thanks for getting back to me, ordering now
Great video ta
I need our help BIG TIME..I bought that cobra 29LX and the Sharmans power pack as recommended by you.Now the problem is the Cobra came with a power cord for a car lighter but I wanted it for home so my friend cut the lighter adaptor off then we cut and twisted the wires to fit around the terminals on the power pack and we switched it on now the CB powers up for a second the it goes off.Every time we put the power pack on the CB lights up for a second then goes off can you help need help what happening.
karl conterio
Probably a very poor connection to the power supply
Cheers bud. Very helpful. :)
great vid as always Fred
Thanks mate :-)
Interesting video, thanks.
Cheers Dell. I put out a shout for your Blog.
Yes many thanks for that, it's appreciated. Famous at last!
Welcome. You work hard on that blog a deserve a few more views.
I sent back the Cobra t'onight by recorded delivery cost me £14.75 which the seller will refund he is also replacing the CB with another when it arrives.I will keep you updated when I get my replacement.
He sounds a decent sort. Hopefully he will run a test on the new one before sending it. I think once you get a fully working radio you will be pleased. Its a lot of radio for the money, looks good as well. Dont forget to tune around the euro bands when the skip is in.
Would a steel roof interfer with the performance of the anttenna.?
No it should help as it will act as a ground plane.
I put on my CB today but nothing the power pack was on but no power to the CB there is a fuse in the back of the power pack and I wonder if that is the problem anyway I have decided to buy all NEW so I have just saw your comment about a Multiband SSB Rig can you suggest one and a power pack to honest I should have bought new from the start.I will try and find if it is the fuse which is causing the problem.Once again thanks for all your advice.OR should I buy a better power pack as the one I have looks old with no information on it.
Hi Mate. When you choose a SSB radio you need to decided if your going to run a small in line amp (burner) or if you are going to use straight power from the radio. Also most SSB radio's are not UK legal so thats another choice. Either way your going to be looking at around £200 - 300 with a new PSU. Staying legal and buying new is harder than you think. Prob the President Grant 2 is the best choice. Its gives just 4w FM and AM but 12 Watts SSB. In truth to get the best out of this set up your prob going to need a small amp (illegal) which will set you back another £50. Thats top end. A good started radio is the CRT 6900N or the Alinco 135. These are 10 meter radio's but have useful channel displays. They are powerful enough not to need a additional amp. Finally the most powerful is the CRT SS9900 or Anytone 6666. As in my latest video you will see that these are more of a 10 meter ham radio than a cb so there is a learning curve. Finally you could go "all out" and spend your £300 on a used HF radio like the Alinco DX77 in my videos. No channels but you can save the 40 channel freq in memory.
A good value 30 amp supply. ruclips.net/video/-mU0JIR68PM/видео.html
No problem. I would say that one of the best starting legal CB,s is the Cobra 29 LX-EU. As well as FM AM it has all the euro channels programmed in as well. Only down side is that being legal you will find that you will need an amp at some point. I will send you some links on the next few comments.
www.kcb.co.uk/shop2/contents/en-uk/d132_cobra.html
I would suggest you get your radio up and running before you invest in a amp. www.kcb.co.uk/shop2/contents/en-uk/d7.html
Hey there, Denver Colorado here. I have the Cobra LX Camo. I have an Antron99 being delivered Monday. Could you tell me what diameter pipe you mounted yours on? I like your vids. Your setup looks awesome!.
Hi bubby. Your going to need a 1.5 inch pole.
When the A99 arrived the box was damaged and the U-bolt kit was gone. I had to wait a week for Solarcon to send a new set. I called the city about height rules. 35 feet at the tip is all I am allowed. A friend is coming next Sunday to put it on my roof. I'm in a wheelchair so I wait and I wait and I ect.........
LOL i meant Buddy on the last comment LOL. Sounds like your on your way. My first Antron had a badly made middle section and i had to send that back so i feel your pain. If your height restricted you may want to consider the FireUp firestick upgrade top section as it makes the Antenna slightly shorter, improves stability in wind and increases signal range on DX. All best from the UK.
Ha ha. I thought the nickname was a silly British thing. I know they can be quite strange, because I are one :). My grandfather came to the states from Carlisle. My last name is Pound (see?) I've always been very proud of my English heritage. I did see your vid about the damaged A99. Thats always been my luck too. I looked for a Fire Up after I saw your vid. I only saw them in the U.K. I need to search further. I am going to make a vid of my old whip ant. I built and the new A99. Prolly get me little radio in there too. I will keep you posted. 73 from The Mile "High" City. Gitz.
OK buddy. The fire up kit is only a basic 11m firestick antenna thats been slightly cut back. Before Thunderpole began selling them people made there own and that where the idea came from.
Hi Fred yes they sent me a link i’ve managed to login but they said I should put a little bit of information about myself but I cannot do this for some reason thank you forgetting back to me.Ivan
Ok i guess i may take a while for the reg to be activated. I think they like a bit of information before they issue a CT number. I seem to recall that taking a few days to come through.
Hi Fred I’m hoping you may be up to help me I’ve registered on the Charlie Tango website and I message back asking me to introduce myself and told him little bit about me but for some reason I can find a way of entering the text sent can you help me please mate thanks in advance.
Hi Ivan. Are you saying you cant post on the Forum itself ?
really useful vid mate..... two questions. you recommended that i get the voyager. i went to order it and then found the red devil!! is it worth the extra couple of quid? also as you may recall i currently have a mini springer, that is constantly getting whacked by overhead objects would a shock spring help avoid damage on the voyager or red devil or does it need removing everytime i drive under a low flying pigeon? thanks again for a great vid 73s and 88s
I think the Red Devil is worth the little bit extra with its larger bottom loading coil. The springer will help take the worse out of a knock. The other two's whip will flex but getting hit all the time will eventually snap the threaded mount.
fredintheshed1 cheers mate... red devil it is then :)
Following your Maxcom 7E videos, I've since picked one up myself, and have a real urge to get hold of an old Midland Portapak, but not found one yet. I am toying with the idea of building my own 21st century Portapak using a CRT One as seen in this video, somewhat inspired by your mate's bike set up. I am pretty sure all the parts (battery case for 10 AA's, antenna connections etc) can be bought for a few quid on eBay, and the hardest part would be a case to put it all in...but then my wife is a seamstress. Would be interested to hear if you think this would work?
I think it should work. You can get a 1/4 wave telescopic whip which would work.
@@CB-RADIO-UK Really That would be perfect, thought I was going to have to make do with one of those 53cm handheld whips! Think I will have a go at this just for fun.
This is the type of mast. ruclips.net/video/epNhSYlWFzU/видео.html I cannot find a UK link but i seem to recall they were around £25
Hi Fred!
Thanks for the information. Great help . I to would like to get back into the CB scene . I am a licensed amature radio op but find it too crusty for my liking and a bit pricey too. Looks like you get a lot of CB radio for your cash.
Anyway thanks
73
Hi David. Many of the people on my video's are licensed but like to drift on to the dark side. Its a lot more relaxed but we still try to make it proper radio on SSB without all swearing you can pick up on FM. Multiband 10m radio's like the CRT 6900 and 9900 offer a big bang for the buck and work surprisingly well on DX.
thats one decent set up wow
Thanks John.
fredintheshed1 I used to be on back in the 90's and 2000's / I had multibands I used to go mobile up on the hills around Macclesfield and Stockport and towards Bolton way all over there , u showed a home base fidelity I had one lol , I've had kenwood multiband, ,reacently I had a land rover a couple years ago but saved my cb radio am in Suffolk now ,it is a CRT S MINI am & fm and basic when I used to do green laneing
Oh I also I had a siror I think a 3000 , very good , back in the day ,I am thinking of putting it into my van just need a mag mount I have a small spring Ariel , but might get another siriro lol good videos amazing set up
The 4000 and 5000 are the pick of the bunch for Sirio. The CRT SS6900N with full USB and LSB is a great budget radio. SSB is where the action is when the skip is in.
ive had south america when the skips in , few secs lol .
Well I got a full replacement CB and we had it up and running but all I'am getting is static and yes it was set the right way we are getting nothing we followed the instructions page by page and still nothing we thought it might be my metal shed so we took it in doors but still nothing .We think it must be where I stay I'am getting nothing so now I have all this brand new gear which I now have to sell at least I will get most of my money back I'am planning to sell it all on facebook cost me well over £200 but I will take a slight loss so selling for £200 and postage of £20.
Ok what antenna are you using and are you homebase or mobile.
It's a Silver Rod and it clears the house ok remember I bought it with the old Rotel CB.Plus I have found out there is not many people up here using CBs much.
That may be the problem. Have you tried SSB ?
Fred- loves the video. Thank you.
My brother lives about 70 miles away. Is there a handheld CB device that I can use to talk with him. Also, could I have. Third handset for another person near me to join any conversations?
A CB handset will not cover 70 miles iam afraid. Maybe you could use Zello on your phone ?
Great upload
Thank you. Plenty more CB radio video's on the channel
At least cb isn't licensed as such no exams or any moneymaking etc
great video mate
Cheers.
I have a roof top antana that uses coax. can this be used on my cb?
Not TV coax as that is 75 Ohms and CB needs 50 Ohms.
Is there a difference of some sort between UK radios and US radios? Anyone?
US use AM as their main CB band and UK use FM. Some US radio's do not come with the UK 40 FM band. President and Cobra make radio's for the UK but are normally branded EU.
Fred, i cant find the Herts/Beds/Bucks facebook group?
Here you go. facebook.com/groups/cbradioeurope/
Im on this one already! Thanks, mate. Hopefully speak to you on the CB sometime. Im not far from you, but i have more DX contacts than locals.....
OK rab. Yes DX is great at the moment. Hope to catch you on air buddy.
Good video
How did you mount the radio to the bike?
Hi it was Jez TM062 with the radio on the bike. ruclips.net/video/3RMDlcry71M/видео.html
I have not had a CB for more than 20 yrs and at the time I didn't have it long so I'am a complete novice you said about a small burner can you suggest one for me.Plus about getting a handle I joined the Official Charlie Tango DX group on facebook you spoke about applying for a CB handle.What happens if they give you a handle you don't like or want as I'am a big cigar smoker and well known on a few cigar pages on facebook so I was looking for a handle like CIGARMAN or the Mad Scotsman as I'am known as.Can you advise me on these two questions.Plus if I buy a burner do I still need the SWR meter.I will more than likely pick your brains further.Thanks.
No prob Karl. Firstly i would apply for a free Charlie Tango call sign number. Its not a handle buddy. If you want to use a handle then you can make one up yourself. A SWR meter is important to fine tune your antenna as if it is too high (say over 3.0) you can risk damage to the radio when you transmit. A small burner amp will boost your signal from 4 watts up to a claimed 100. However in reality prob more like 60 + . I will add an ebay link after this comment but look to spend around £50.
www.ebay.co.uk/itm/CB-AMPLIFIER-BURNER-PREAMP-RM-KL-203P-AMP-100-W-FM-200W-SSB-HF-UK-CHEAPEST-/161241561117?epid=1531690458&hash=item258abef81d:g:1XoAAOSw4CFY27NX
I was told by chap in shop local to me that I don't need swa meter as everything is set up from factory these days ? Or is he talking crap ?
His talking crap. most new radios have a SWR meter built in but you have to fine tune the antenna for the best SWR. If it goes over 3 power will be feed back to the radio and can cause damage.
Thanks for that reply althougj the ones i am looking at dont have inbuilt swa as far as i know ? Crt one ? Or tti tcb900 ?
I am not sure on those. A SWR meter and patch lead is around £15 and well worth the money. Not only is it to protect your radio but if your setting up a mobile radio it will help you find the best place for the antenna. The lower the SWR the more power your transmitting.
www.ebay.co.uk/itm/CB-Radio-Small-and-Handy-SWR-Meter-with-1m-Patch-Lead/260725120081?epid=1423156444&hash=item3cb46d9c51:g:sPgAAOSwAuNW7VhY:rk:6:pf:0
@@CB-RADIO-UK can you recommend an antenna to go on my sprinter van and would i be best with a mag mount or a bracket ? would i also need a spring and would it be best on the roof or mirror etc ?
Hey Fred. This is a yank over here in United States. I wonder if you could steer me to someone that would send me a UK FM CB radio? Of course I would pay for the cost of the shipping if it’s even feasible. What are you call 27/81 I think
I personally dont know of anyone which would send you a radio. Best bet would to search Ebay.co.uk. Many will sent abroad.
Great job.... !!!!!!
I’ve been a Cb fan from the 70s on the old am. I went and got my first legal radio I’ve been trying for a C T call sign but couldn’t get any sense from them and gave up I love Cb radio but it’s not very good in my area they’re just a lot of idiots who don’t take it seriously.
Sorry that your local CB is a bit rough. I assume thats on the UK FM ? Have you tried or thought about trying Sideband.
are you still in your shed fred
Well not at the moment as the shed is stacked with another project that iam slowly working on :-)
Hi my man I’m looking for some sound advise and you look clued in. I have never been in to cb but in this day and age of fines for using mobiles I want to install a cb in my MX5 for road trip coms car to car.
I want something small like the crt one but have 0 clue on set up. Clear 2 mile range is my objective but I don’t want a massive areal turning my mx5 in to a radio control car😂.
I know height is key but since range is not my objective I was thinking of concealing the thunder pole on the hollow spoiler of my car.
John Mor if my fb and Mx5megajohn is my Instagram.
Hi. CB antennas need air space to work properly. If they are too close to a solid object part of the signal gets reflected back to the radio causing a high SWR. This will really shorten the range and can cause damage to the radio. Finally CB antennas work best vertical so in a spoiler not so good. For car to car over a short range ( not 2 miles though) you might get away with a PMR radio such as the Baofeng UV5R
Thank you, Fred!
Pleasure Lee
I want an antenna that I can drive around with
Depends on your budget but the higher end Sirio antennas get high praise.
dont touch a midland radio back in the day they was rough
They have gone way down hill recently :-(
THANKS GREAT POST..WELL DONE..68CT022..DES CREAN BELFAST..IRELAND,NORHT
I’ve had to search through all the frequency to find someone worth taking to they’re all muppets in my area.
Just need to keep an ear out on SSB. 27.555 etc for when the bands open.
Hi me again we think it's the CB to blame it's not powering up as the new power pack is working my old Rotel so we know it's not the power pack to blame.
What CB are you running karl.
I bought the cobra 29lx and the Sharmans power pack as recommend.Now the problem is the Cobra came with a power cord for a car lighter but I wanted It for my home so my friend cut the lighter adaptor off then he cut and twisted the wires to fit around the terminals on the power pack and we switched it on and the CB powers up for a second then it goes off and nothing.Have we done something wrong.
Yeah just seen the other message. This is not a common fault. Basic things first. You have a standard 3 pin Uniden style power plug that goes in the back. They can be stiff. Pull it out and check that the 3 pins on the radio are not bent and that the plug is going right in. As the radio is new i would contact the seller and tell them of the problem asap. It sounds like it may have a fault.
We thought there was a problem.Yes it was stiff the three pins are not bent so there must be a problem I have already contacted the seller he is phoning me tomorrow.
Yes it does sound like fault on the radio. Hopefully the exchange will be swift.
Channel rejection!!!!!!!!!!!😵😵😵😵😵