CB radio is a very common form of communication. This is used in many countries for convenient communication. This is a technology that allows persons to communicate with each other across short distances via bidirectional voice communication. Two different CB radios operate up to 40 channels. From the professional to the amateur, everyone can use it.
CB radio is used on higher-end radios because it has less noise and a longer range than AM. the frequencies of the channels are not fixed, this can change from level to level.
But this may face considerable power loss over long runs. To address this issue SWR meter would be the right solution. A directional SWR meter uses directional couplers to measure the magnitude of the forward and reflected waves separately. After that, the SWR is calculated.
An antenna system with inadequate performance limits (receive and transmit) range and can damage the transceiver. When a signal does not travel correctly via the antenna system, the broadcast power is reflected back into the transceiver, reducing range and perhaps damaging internal components.
To do the test, an “SWR” meter is used in conjunction with a short coax wire between the radio and antenna system. If your radio includes a built-in SWR meter, you can also utilize it.
Tune a CB radio with a built-in SWR meter is very easy if you can follow some steps carefully. Here we would try to describe all the necessary steps that you need to take to tune the CB radio with a built-in SWR meter.
Step 1: Find a Location
The most important part is to find a suitable location which is taken lightly by many users. But the signal depends on it. The first step is to locate a good parking spot for your vehicle. Within 10 to 15 meters of your antenna, there should be no impediments such as trees or buildings. You and your friends should not be hanging out near the car, either. To get an accurate reading, make sure you’re inside with the doors and windows shut. Additionally, you can check our review on CB Radio Ever Made.
Step 2: Connect SWR
The SWR meter must now be connected. Remove the coaxial cable from the rear of the radio first. Connect the end of the cable that goes to the antenna to the SWR meter in the “antenna” or “ANT” connector. Then, using the jumper lead, connect your radio to the SWR meter via the “transmitter” or “XMIT” connection. Besides, you can choose some SWR Meter for Ham Radio.
Step 3: Measure SWR
Now the SWR is connected to CB radio, you are all set up. The only thing left is connecting to the channels which is a very easy step. As by now you’re now ready to test the SWR on several different channels, you need to start connecting to channels one by one. It’s vital to keep the microphone at the same distance from the meter for each test during this process. Make sure you also check our guide for FRS Radios.
Step 4: Tune the CB radio
Set the SWR meter switch to forwarding “FWD” and tune your CB radio to channel 1(one). By pressing the PTT button on the mike, keep the CB in transmit mode. Adjust the needle on the SWR meter using the Set or Adjust knob until it is aligned with the relevant mark on the meter. Toggle the switch to the “REF” (Reference) position. On channel one, the meter now displays your SWR. Make a mental note of the number and rapidly depress the mic PTT button. Check out the most essential Review for Vintage Shortwave Radio.
Step 5: Switch the SWR meter
Change the station to 1 on the radio. Turn on the microphone (depress the button and hold it).
Turn the “ADJUST” knob on the SWR meter until the needle reaches the “SET” position at the end of its range. Switch the SWR meter to the “SWR” position while still keying the microphone. Record the reading from your SWR meter as soon as possible, then release the broadcast key on your microphone. This process will now be repeated for channel 40. Follow the steps to tuning to each channel. Don’t forget to check the HAM Radio for Satellites reviews.
Step 6: Adjust the antenna according to the size
The antenna/antennas are electrically “short” if the SWR for channel 1 is higher than the SWR for channel 40. Adjusting the antenna or adding springs or fast disconnects, for example, will lengthen the CB antenna. When possible, make adjustments in 1/8′′ increments. Mark the original position of the antenna/antennas as well as the position of each adjustment along the route.
The antenna/antennas are electrically “Long” if the SWR for channel 40 is higher than the SWR for channel 1. By modifying the antenna/antennas, the CB antenna should be shortened. To make them shorter, some will need to be chopped or adjusted. When possible, make adjustments in 1/8′′ increments. Mark the original position of the antenna/antennas as well as the position of each adjustment along the route.
Final Words
By following some techniques anyone can easily tune a CB radio with a built-in SWR meter. Using SWR gives many advantages like providing a smooth communication system. But it is also important to use the CB radio in order to get the best performance. You can check the products from our list which are picked after drastic research.
I, Mike K. was born on August 25, 1992, in Abingdon Virginia. Our family relocated to Santa Monica, California after middle school.
I received an electrical engineering degree from U.C. San Francisco. While looking for work, he was guided by an engineering position at the company where he is working for. Besides working, David and I are started blogging about the latest developments of electrical stuff and enjoy sharing my thoughts with readers.