Antenna installation, Factors affecting cb range, Noise – MIDLAND CB1 User Manual

Page 6: Tuning your antenna

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Antenna Installation

Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions carefully�

Warning: Never operate your CB radio without attaching an antenna or with a broken

antenna cable� This will result in damage to transmitter circuitry�

Safety notice: The antenna used for this radio must be installed to provide a

separation distance of at least 8 in� (20cm) from all persons and must not be

co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter�

Tuning Your Antenna

Some antennas are factory tuned� However, performance can usually be improved by

slightly lengthening or shortening the antenna using a Standing Wave Radio (SWR)

meter� For the exact procedures to be used, refer to the antenna manufacturer’s

installation manual�

You can buy an SWR meter separately or have your antenna checked by your Midland

CB Dealer’s service department�

Factors affecting CB range

Essentially, they are the same influences that optimize or limit AM and FM broadcast

signals�

Terrain: Hills, valleys and buildings naturally interrupt and shorten CB signals� In short,

anything that is between you and the person you want to talk to can shorten your CB

range� You can expect to maintain maximum transmitting/receiving performance in

flat, open country.

Weather: You can expect that CB range will be reduced – perhaps drastically – in times

of atmospheric disturbance, such as in a thunderstorm or heavy snow� Sunspots too

are known to adversely affect CB performance�

Noise

A common source of excessive noise is the ignition system� In many vehicles today the

electric fuel pump is another possible source of noise� If you suspect this is true, turn

off the ignition� With the CB in receive mode if the noise is no longer present then

this is the source of the noise� In some cases the noise can be reduced or eliminated

by making sure the CB radio chassis is grounded� This is in addition to the power

cord� In extreme cases, additional grounding of components may be necessary�

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