CB radio guides, straight answers and free tools
Everything we explain across the counter, written down: controls, antennas, SWR, wiring, licensing. No signup, no fluff — just what the radio is doing and what to do about it.
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Every guide lives in one of these.
Most read guides
Where most people start.
Business Band Frequencies
Discover the secret to seamless communication in your business with our guide on business band frequencies. Boost productivity and stay connected. Click now!.
CB Radio Frequencies
View all of the CB frequencies used in the USA
Checking and Setting SWR on a CB Radio
Learn what SWR means, why it matters, and how to correctly check and adjust SWR on your CB radio using built-in meters or external SWR meters. Simple explanations, step-by-step instructions, and antenna tuning tips.
Business Band Radio License
Unleash the Power of Communication: Learn How to Obtain a Business Band Radio License and Revolutionize Your Companys Connectivity.
What is the RF Gain Control on a CB Radio?
Understanding the RF Gain control and how it differs from the squelch. Learn to adjust your receiver sensitivity for optimal performance.
Police 10 Codes
Find out what all of the 10 codes mean, like 10-4.
01Radio Controls
Learn what each control on your CB radio does and how to set it properly
What is the RF Gain Control on a CB Radio?
Understanding the RF Gain control and how it differs from the squelch. Learn to adjust your receiver sensitivity for optimal performance.
What does the Mic Gain or Dynamike do on my radio?
Where do I put the Mic Gain or dynamike control on my CB radio? Get answers to your CB radio controls here, at Walcott Radio.
What is the Squelch Control on a CB Radio?
The squelch control is arguably the most important control on CB radios. Learn what it does and how to set it properly for clear communications.
What does the NB ANL switch do on my radio?
When do you turn off the NB/ANL switch? What purpose does the noise limiter serve? Get answers to your CB radio controls here, at Walcott Radio.
02Installation Guides
Step-by-step guides for installing CB radios, antennas, and accessories
AM PeP to RMS Converter
Convert your Dosy RMS power meter into AM PeP with this easy to use tool
How to install a CB radio in a tractor?
Getting a CB radio set up in a modern tractor can take some work - let us help walk you through the steps.
How to install a CB Radio
Whether it's parts or assistance, we've got you covered. Installation tips, advice for your CB system.
How do I repair a CB coax cable?
Quick and easy guide to installing a PL-259 CB radio coax connector
03Troubleshooting
Diagnose and fix common CB radio problems
SWR Antenna Tuning Tool Guide
Checking and Setting SWR on a CB Radio
Learn what SWR means, why it matters, and how to correctly check and adjust SWR on your CB radio using built-in meters or external SWR meters. Simple explanations, step-by-step instructions, and antenna tuning tips.
Why does my SWR change when I increase power output?
Increasing power doesn’t cause high SWR — it exposes existing flaws in the antenna system.
How to Clean Scratchy CB Radio Controls with Contact Cleaner
Got a scratchy or noisy volume knob on your CB? Dust and oxidation build up on the potentiometer contacts inside. Here's a quick how-to using canned electronics cleaner to bring those controls back to smooth, quiet operation.
04Reference
Frequency charts, wiring diagrams, and technical specifications
CB Radio Frequencies
View all of the CB frequencies used in the USA
Police 10 Codes
Find out what all of the 10 codes mean, like 10-4.
Top 4 Questions Asked at Walcott Radio: CB/HAM Radio Guide
There is no question that Walcott Radio cannot answer for you. Check out our FAQs and other CB/HAM radio guides. Online store ships same-day by 2 PM CST.
Microphone Wiring Diagrams
FREE Repair your CB microphone yourself with these mike wiring diagrams. Get CB microphone help here, at Walcott Radio.
05Ham Radio
Introduction to amateur (ham) radio and licensing
06Business Band & GMRS
Commercial radios, business band frequencies, and GMRS information
Business Band Frequencies
Discover the secret to seamless communication in your business with our guide on business band frequencies. Boost productivity and stay connected. Click now!.
Business Band Radio License
Unleash the Power of Communication: Learn How to Obtain a Business Band Radio License and Revolutionize Your Companys Connectivity.
Business Band vs GMRS
Discover the ultimate battle between Business Band and GMRS radios. Uncover the pros and cons, and find out which one reigns supreme in the world of communication.
Quick answers
The questions we get asked most, answered in a sentence or two.
What is the squelch control on a CB radio?
The squelch control filters out background static when no one is transmitting. Turn it clockwise until the static just disappears - this is the optimal setting. If set too high, you may miss weak signals. If set too low, you'll hear constant static.
How do I set the RF gain on my CB radio?
RF Gain controls receiver sensitivity. For most situations, set it to maximum. In heavy traffic or with strong nearby stations, reduce it to prevent distortion. Start at max and adjust down if signals sound overdriven.
How do I adjust the echo on my Stryker radio?
Echo controls are typically on the front panel or inside the radio. For Stryker radios: 1) Locate the ECHO knob, 2) Turn it to about 25-30% for a natural sound, 3) Avoid setting it too high as it can cause feedback and make your audio unintelligible. Some radios have internal adjustment pots for fine-tuning.
What should my SWR reading be?
Ideal SWR is 1.0:1 (perfect match), but anything under 1.5:1 is excellent. 1.5-2.0 is acceptable. Above 2.0, you should adjust your antenna. Above 3.0, do not transmit - it can damage your radio. Common fixes: adjust antenna length, check connections, improve ground plane.
How do I install a CB antenna on my truck?
For best performance: 1) Mount as high as possible, 2) Center of roof is ideal, mirror mounts are common alternatives, 3) Ensure good metal contact for ground, 4) Run coax away from power wires, 5) Use quality mounts and weatherproof connections. For semi trucks, dual antennas on mirrors work well.
Prefer to calculate instead of read?
Free interactive tools for antenna tuning, power wire sizing and more. Plug in your readings and get an answer in under a minute — no signup required.
Still stuck? Our techs answer the phone.
We run these radios ourselves. Call 1-844-925-2688 (M–F 10–5 CST), or send a question and we will write back.