CB antenna stands for citizen band antenna. It is a radio antenna that is designed mainly to perform two functions
It receives radio frequency signals and converts them into electrical signals by the receiver and it also takes electrical signals from the transmitter and converts them into radio frequency signals. This is done with the help of tuning.
This antenna has a longer length of 28 inches . The long length of the antenna helps to receive and transmit signals to a large range of distance.
The antenna comes in a complete kit and includes the following :- magnet mount , 10 ft co axial cable, whip stainless steel and coil load.
This antenna has a magnetic base which harnesses large metal surfaces hence it provides improved reception. The antenna covers every frequency and works in all weather conditions.
You may need to attach an adapter.
ADVANTAGES
Works in all weather conditions.
The antenna has a strong magnet and stays fixed in the position.
Easy to install.
Little tuning required
DISADVANTAGES
Not height adjustable.
The cord may be short in some cases.
2. ARIES 10822 SINGLE 4` FOOT 500 WATT CB RADIO ANTENNA – best mobile cb antenna
The antenna comes with a 4ft whip made of fiberglass. The antenna has a heavy duty mount with double groove aluminium mirror . It has a 6 ft coaxial cable of superior quality. The antenna has an output power rating of 500 watts. Depending upon the setup and the signal obstructions the range of antenna can be between 5 to 10 miles.
ADVANTAGES
Inexpensive and affordable
Great quality.
Easy to tune.
Allows easy communication.
DISADVANTAGES
The length of the cord is short in some cases when they want to use it at the back of the vehicle.
3. TRAM 703-HC Center Load CB Antenna Kit – best for semi truck
The antenna is 2″ tall .It has a magnet mount 3.5″ in length .The antenna contains shock spring . With this you get a cable that is 17 ft long with PL-259 . It includes a stainless steel whip.
The antenna easily covers all the cb radio frequencies. It has an adjustable top which you can adjust using a set screw. You can test your connection using a voltmeter.
This antenna has a slim and sleek built and it is very easy to use. The antenna comes with coaxial cable that is 9 ft in length providing proper length to be used even in larger vehicles. It has a magnetic mount which contains strong magnet keeping it fixed at its position. Can be used on a boat. It has an adjustable tip.
ADVANTAGES
Easy to install and tune.
Sticks to its position even at high speed.
Great reception.
DISADVANTAGE
You May need to buy an additional coaxial cable.
5. FireStik FS-4BK 4 (r) Ii Fs Series Tunable Tip Cb Antenna
The antenna has an output power rating of 900 watts. You can use the antenna in both configurations dual as well as single. To work well with the antenna it needs fine tuning. It comes with a loading coil providing high performance. The antenna is compatible. Heavy duty and works with all CB frequencies. It is easily installed and is durable. Do buy a heavy duty spring to buy it.
ADVANTAGES
Great performance.
Easy to install.
Easy to tune with little effort.
Offers great range.
Great reception.
DISADVANTAGE
Does not work on aluminium truck.
Not too flexible.
6. Browning BR-28 High-Performance Broad Band 63- Inch CB Antenna
This antenna has a length of 63″. The kit includes the following
A copper coil (triple chrome-plated)
A stainless steel whip.
And a stainless steel shaft.
It has an output power rating of 10,000 watts . The whip has a length of 49″ and shaft is 6 inches
Has a frequency range of 25 megahertz to 30 megahertz.
ADVANTAGES:-
The antenna delivers a great performance.
Excellent reception.
Easy to tune.
With tuner ot offers range of upto 17 to 20 metres.
Great output power rating.
When you decide to buy a Cb antenna you need to take various things into consideration
Some of the factors while buying a CB antenna includes
The length of the antenna. Tall antennas provide better performance than shorter antennas. The higher the antenna , you can deliver messages to more distance and receive from a more distance.The ideal length of the Cb antenna is around 102 inches and about one-fourth of the wavelength. The other thing is it should be of ideal height to let your car fit in the garage when placed at the roof of the car.
If the brand of your antenna is good and reliable you can easily go for a cheaper CB radio and still enjoy great performance
The location can be any one of the following:- top loaded, base loaded, and center loaded.The base loaded antennas have a magnet at the bottom of the antenna to mount
It on the roof of the cars. In the center loaded the coil is at the bottom but not at the base of the antenna. The top loaded antennas are the cheapest yet the most effective antennas.
Antennas can be mounted using either magnet or by using screws . Magnetic mounting is preferred as it is easy to change its position to find better reception.
Here are some of the antennas that easily meet the above requirements and can provide you with the best performance with your radio.
These antennas are affordable and provide great reception. They are all you need for your CB radio. The antennas are easy to install and make communication easier while you are driving. Decide which suits your requirements best and go for it without a second thought.
