Reference

AM (Amplitude Modulation) is the standard mode used by most CB radios. It is simple, widely compatible, and used on all 40 CB channels. AM works well for short- to medium-range communication and is what most truckers and local users use. If you're new to CB, AM is the correct mode to start with.

SSB (Single Sideband) is a more efficient mode than AM and allows longer-range communication. LSB (Lower Sideband) is used on CB channels 1–40 when operating SSB. USB (Upper Sideband) is mainly used on amateur (ham) radio, not CB. SSB requires fine tuning using the clarifier to make voices sound natural.

NOAA weather channels provide continuous weather information from the National Weather Service. Many CB radios include a WX button to quickly access these channels. Some radios also support weather alerts, which automatically switch to the weather channel when severe weather warnings are broadcast.

Channel 19 is the most commonly used CB channel for highway communication. Truck drivers use it to share traffic conditions, accidents, speed traps, and road hazards. If you're traveling, monitoring channel 19 is usually the best place to hear activity.

High SWR causes RF power to reflect back into the radio instead of going into the antenna. This reflected power creates heat and electrical stress that can damage output transistors, reduce performance, and shorten radio lifespan. Many modern radios reduce power or shut down to protect themselves when SWR is too high.

FWD (Forward) measures power going from the radio to the antenna. REF (Reflected) measures power bouncing back toward the radio. SWR is calculated by comparing these two values. Higher reflected power means higher SWR and lower efficiency.