CB Radio Frequencies: What You Should Know About Them

What are CB radio frequencies? What should you know about them?

CB radio (Citizen’s Band Radio) is a license-free radio service that allows private individuals to communicate with each other on designated frequencies. It is especially popular among hobby radio operators, truck drivers, and in rural areas.

The origins of CB radio date back to the 1940s in the USA. The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) created a frequency spectrum that was released for non-commercial radio traffic. In the 1970s, CB radio experienced a strong upswing, particularly through its spread in the transportation industry and among hobby radio operators. In many countries, CB radio was officially regulated and received designated frequency ranges that are still used today.

A major difference between CB radio and amateur radio lies in the flexibility of frequency usage and the permitted transmission power. Amateur radio operators can transmit worldwide on various frequency bands and use complex antenna systems. CB radio operators are much less flexible in this regard. CB radio frequencies are limited to a restricted range. CB radio mainly operates on the 11-meter band at 27 MHz. In comparison, PMR radio (Private Mobile Radio) operates on UHF frequencies around 446 MHz and offers an even simpler system, but with significantly less range.

Very important for CB radio are the CB radio frequencies and channels, which are precisely defined. Radio devices naturally use a specific frequency, just like regular radios. The channels are a kind of “preset” that allows for easy selection. It’s much easier to say:

“Let’s go to channel 1” instead of: “Let’s switch to frequency 26.965 megahertz.”

This article discusses the differences between frequencies and channels, but that’s not all. Legal regulations in Germany and other European countries, as well as technical basics like AM and FM are topics that will be covered here.

Differences Between Frequencies and Channels

Many beginners wonder what exactly the difference is between frequencies and channels. So here’s an illustrative explanation that clarifies the direct relationship between the two terms.

The frequency indicates on which electromagnetic wave a radio device transmits and receives. It is measured in megahertz (MHz) and, simply put, determines how fast the waves oscillate.

In CB radio, the permissible frequency range is between 26.560 MHz and 27.410 MHz. Within this range, there are numerous individual frequencies that can be used for communication.

To make radio devices easier to operate, fixed channels have been assigned to these frequencies. A channel is therefore nothing more than a specific frequency that has been assigned a number. Instead of manually setting the frequency, you can simply select a channel. For example, channel 1 corresponds to the frequency 26.965 MHz and channel 40 corresponds to the frequency 27.405 MHz.

The 11-Meter Band – What Does That Mean?

The term 11-meter band describes the wavelength of CB radio frequencies. The wavelength of an electromagnetic wave is derived from the speed of light divided by the frequency. Simply put: the lower the frequency, the longer the wavelength.

CB radio operates in the frequency range around 27 MHz, which corresponds to a wavelength of about 11 meters – hence the name 11-meter band. This wavelength has some special characteristics:

• It can spread relatively far, especially over open landscapes.
• Under certain conditions, it can be reflected by the ionosphere, enabling connections over hundreds or even thousands of kilometers. People often say “The band is open” in such cases.
• It is less susceptible to shielding by buildings than higher frequency ranges, but obstacles like mountains or dense buildings can still reduce the range.

The propagation of radio waves in the 27 MHz band follows several principles:

• First, there’s the ground wave. In the near field, the signal spreads along the earth’s surface. This enables a range of a few kilometers, depending on obstacles such as buildings or forests.
• A direct connection (also called line-of-sight) is also possible. The radio waves move in a direct line of sight between the radio devices. In open areas or with elevated antennas, the range can be up to 30 kilometers.
• Then there’s ionospheric reflection (Sporadic-E). Under certain conditions, radio signals are reflected by the ionosphere, allowing ranges of several hundred to a thousand kilometers. This phenomenon occurs especially during high solar activity.

In comparison, PMR446 radio uses a frequency of 446 MHz, which corresponds to a much shorter wavelength of around 70 centimeters. These radio waves have a shorter range and propagate more in a direct line of sight.

In summary:

The frequency determines on which electromagnetic wave a radio signal is transmitted, while the channel number is a simple way to use a set frequency. The 11-meter band of CB radio offers a good mix of range and flexibility, which is why it has proven itself for decades.

An example:

• Channel 1 corresponds to the frequency 26.965 MHz.
• Channel 40 is at 27.405 MHz.

But beware: Higher channels don’t necessarily mean higher frequencies.

CB Radio Frequencies and Channels (1-80)

First, let’s look at the standard channels 1 to 40.

The classic CB radio channels 1 to 40 are widely used internationally and cover the frequency range from 26.965 MHz to 27.405 MHz. Here are some channels and their corresponding CB radio frequencies:

Then come the extended channels between 41 and 80 in Germany.

In Germany, an additional 40 channels were released in 1996. These are in the frequency range between 26.565 MHz and 26.955 MHz and are mainly used for private communication.

An important note: In other European countries, these additional channels are not always permitted.

Modulation Types: AM, FM, and SSB

CB radio uses different modulation types that differ in sound quality and range:

• AM (Amplitude Modulation): Older technology, often noisy, but with good range.
• FM (Frequency Modulation): better sound quality, shorter range than AM.
• SSB (Single Sideband Modulation): best range, but only available for special devices.

The maximum permissible transmission powers in Germany are as follows:

• AM/FM: maximum 4 watts
• SSB: maximum 12 watts

CB Radio Frequencies: Legal Regulations in Germany

The use of CB radio in Germany is license-free but subject to certain regulations:

• The approved frequencies are: 26.560 MHz – 27.410 MHz
• The maximum transmission power is: 4 watts (AM/FM), 12 watts (SSB)
• Permitted modulation types are: AM, FM, SSB
• For antennas, there is basically no limit as long as no external amplifier is used. Due to the wavelength (lambda), they can be up to 11 meters long; rod antennas are often around five and a half meters (corresponding to half the wavelength, therefore often referred to as half-lambda)

Regulations in Other European Countries

Every country has its own regulations for CB radio. Here is an overview:

Note: Those traveling abroad should inform themselves about current regulations in advance.

Special Channels in Germany

Besides the regular channels, there are some special channels:

• Channel 9 (27.065 MHz): Emergency channel
• Channel 19 (27.185 MHz): Trucker channel
• Channel 15 (27.135 MHz): SSB calling channel
• Data channels: Channels 6, 7, 24, 25, 52, 53, 76, 77 for digital transmissions

Legal and Illegal CB Radio Operation

For years, people worldwide have been privately operating on radio frequencies outside the CB radio range between 26 and 28 MHz. In Germany, however, using these unassigned frequencies is a regulatory offense that can be punished with a fine.

The use of transmission power amplifiers (often referred to as “burners” or “final stages”) is also illegal. Modified amateur radio equipment from the 10-meter band that does not comply with CB radio allocation requirements is also frequently used. There are operators who work with transmission powers of up to more than 100 watts instead of the permitted 4 watts.

The Federal Network Agency is responsible for investigating and prosecuting such violations. However, the legal situation is not so simple, and proceedings for violations of radio regulations are rather rare except for some extreme cases. Nevertheless, they should of course be observed.

Differences to PMR446 and Freenet Radio

Besides CB radio, there are other license-free radio services:

• PMR446 (446 MHz, UHF range): shorter range, handy devices, good for cities.
• Freenet radio (149 MHz, VHF range): Better range than PMR, but less widespread.

CB radio has the advantage of being able to bridge greater distances due to the 27 MHz frequency, especially with a good antenna.

CB Radio Frequencies and the Use of Radio on up to 80 Channels

CB radio is a proven means of communication without a mobile network that has been around for many years and is ideal for hobby radio operators, truckers, and even for emergency use. Familiarizing yourself with CB radio frequencies, channels, modulation types, and legal regulations will help you get the most out of this radio service.

For beginners, a simple CB radio with FM and AM that can be operated on the approved 80 channels in Germany is worthwhile. Those who also want to use radio abroad should inform themselves about the respective regulations in advance. Many modern CB radios can be set to different country standards, thus adapting the channels and transmission power to the legal regulations of the respective country, which is very practical if you want to use CB radio abroad.