CB
From HFUnderground
Citizen's Band Radio, or "CB Radio" for short. Known by pejorative names such as "Chicken Band", "Children's Band" and several others. Short-range license free (or simple license requirement) two-way radio service for personal or business purposes in the 25-30 MHz (25000-30000 kHz) range that makes up the shortest wavelength portions of the HF band. For local communications, it tends to behave more like a short-range VHF / UHF Radio service. De facto standard frequency allocation based on 40 channel American CB band 26.965-27.405 MHz. In radio hobbyist circles, the CB band and adjacent frequencies are often referred to as "11 meters".
CB is one of the most commonly used two-way and land mobile radio services worldwide, although for handheld walkie-talkie purposes it has mostly been depreciated in favor of VHF/UHF services such as FRS/GMRS and MURS. CB is still heavily used by trucking companies, hunting clubs, farmers, rednecks, doomsday preppers, for local and/or unlicensed paging or data link/telemetry systems,etc and as an inexpensive short-range alternative to licensed services such as the licensed Business Radio Services. Hunters are such a prolific user of CB equipment that export radio companies such as RCI/Ranger have produced radios designed specifically for hunters, such as the Connex Deer Hunter (26.065-27.405 MHz), Connex Coyote Hunter (25.615-27.405 MHz) and Superstar 121 (26.515-27.855 MHz) which cover the lower freeband frequencies often used by hunters.
Many ham radio operators look down on CB with absolute disdain, while others view it as a useful tool...or at the very least, a source of entertainment.
CB (and the 11-meter freeband frequencies above and below CB) are making a resurgance as one of many communications methods used by so-called "preppers" and survivalists, in addition to amateur radio and VHF/UHF services such as FRS, GMRS, VHF marine, etc.
A large radio subculture relating to illegally modifying CB equipment to access "freeband" frequencies, transmit higher than legal power levels, and or make DX contacts, exists worldwide. A large market for "export radios" (often sold under the guise of being 10 meter amateur radios) exists. CB is an old service, with its roots dating back to the 1950s and its spiritual roots dating back to the Second World War.
Origins and Historical Babble - Second World War
The origins of CB can be traced further back, to World War II. Both the US and Germany developed mobile two-way radios for use in tanks, trucks and other vehicles that used similar frequency ranges, power output levels, and the familiar 9 foot long 1/4 wave "whip" antenna associated with CB. These frequencies the 20-27.9 MHz and 27.0-38.9 MHz ranges (SCR-508 and SCR-608 tank and artillery radios) and the 22.0-33.4 MHz range (Germany, standard 10W.S.c Panzer radio transmitter). The complete German UKW "ultra short wave", another way of saying VHF was known as the Fu 5 or FuG 5. Later German tank radios transmitted high power levels (20 watts vs. 10 watts). This improved radio set was known as the Fu 6 or FuG 6. The German high-HF/low-VHF AM/CW networks provided a communication range of 2-3 km on low power (10w) and 4-6 km on high power (20w).
The American counterparts (SCR-508 family) provided narrower frequency coverage but higher power output and use of FM which significantly reduced impulse noise interference found in vehicles. The SCR-508 tank radio was rated at 25 watts (communication range of 7 miles or 11 km) and the SCR-608 artillery radio was rated at 35 watts (communication range of 15 miles or 24 km). The American radios provided crystal control and channeling at 100 kHz steps (26400, 26500, 26600, etc). The US military also produced lower-powered versions of FM radios that covered the same 20.0-27.9 MHz coverage, designed for mobile command (tank) purposes and landing craft communications.
German AM equipment operated at 50 kHz channel steps (27.050 MHz, 27.100 MHz, 27.150 MHz, etc). The US Army also pioneered the concept of using channel numbers in place of frequencies. For example, 27500 kHz would be referred to as "channel 275". American military equipment provided for 10 crystals to be installed at once and selected "on-the-fly" to allow for rapid frequency agility.
Like the United States and other countries, the German Army operated various versions of these radios, including automatic relay equipment (compare the American SCR-300/BC-1000 VHF-FM 40-48 MHz manpack radio with the German KL.Fuspr.d VHF-AM 32-38 MHz manpack radio) and segregated frequency bands for command and control (in this case, the Germans used a combination of VHF AM/CW tank and command vehicle radios in the 42.0-48.3 MHz range and AM/CW equipment in the 1000-3000 kHz range. Reconnaissance and artillery networks used 24-25 MHz and 23-24.95 MHz AM/CW systems similar in operation to the 22-33.4 MHz panzer tank communications systems. The success of these higher-frequency (above 20 MHz) radio systems for land mobile communications paved the way for the adoption of (what were then considered) higher frequencies for mobile radio.
However, the frequencies used by these military systems was discovered to prone to skywave propagation during the right conditions, including American amateur radio operators intercepting panzer communications while the Germans were operating in North Africa. In addition to being used for tactical communications, the frequency band that would eventually become CB was also used by radar networks such as Chain Home (20-50 MHz) and various radio navigation systems such as the German Lorenz blind landing system (33 MHz), the German "Knickebein" system (30-33 MHz) and others. The British Chain Home system transmitted a continuous "floodlight" radar signal, blanketing the airspace out Great Britain and in many ways, being the first over the horizon radar systems. Chain Home normally operated closer to the lower edge of its frequency capability, often referenced in sources as "12-10 meters" (25-30 MHz).
Origins and Historical Babble - 1950s and beyond
The CB service as we know it today started in the United States in the 1950s as a licensed service in the 26.965-27.255 MHz band (23 channels). When the service was created, the original 26.96 - 27.23 MHz band was taken from the 11 meter amateur radio band in 1947 Because of this, CB and its adjacent frequencies are often referred to as "11 meters". CB was expanded in 1977 to 40 channels. It is this 40 channel plan that became the "standard" CB plan that most countries have since adopted.
On September 11th, 1958, the old 11 meter amateur band was re-allocated by the FCC to the Citizen's Band Radio Service (CB Radio) as "Class D" CB service using FCC verbage. The legislation called for 27 channels between 26.96 MHz and 27.26 MHz with 10 kHz channel spacing, including the five R/C channels spaced 50 kHz apart. The FCC moved the channel centers +5 kHz from the band edge and 26.965 MHz, CB channel 1, was born. Overlaying the 50 kHz R/C channel spacing provided the original 23 channels. Channel 23 was/is 27.255 MHz, while 27.235 and 27.245 remained allocated for business purposes, and while 27.255 MHz/CH 23 became the 5th R/C channel it retained its role in high power paging and continues to do so to this day. It is because of this historical quirk that the CB channels 23, 24 and 25 appear to be out of sequence. When the service was expanded to 40 channels in 1977, 27.235 MHz was added as channel 24 and 27.245 MHz was added as 25. By sheer coincidence (or maybe not), channel 27.265 MHz was added as channel 26 all the way up to 27.405 MHz being channel 40. Thus, from channels 26-40, the first two digits after the decimal in MHz frequency notation are the same as the channel number.
CB is a HF (generally 26-28 MHz) short-range radio service designed for personal or business use by the general public. Although CB occupies the upper portion of HF, it is intended as a short-range service. 27 MHz generally provides VHF low band-like local propagation characteristics during periods of low sunspot numbers and a lack of sporadic-E propagation. During band openings, however, skip propagation is quite common on CB frequencies, and DXing at modest power levels can be realized.
CB is generally license free worldwide, although frequency allocations, modes and power limits vary from country to country. However, these limits are often ignored and enforcement is extremely lax. Use of "10-meter" or "export" radios is common. These radios offer the user the option of 40 channels plus a band switch, the band switch going up or down 450 kHz (0.450 MHz, or 45 channels). Common export radio frequency coverage includes 25.615-28.305 MHz (standard 6-band export plan), 25.165-28.755 MHz (Galaxy DX radios 8-band plan), 25.615-30.105 MHz ("RU" or "export" plan, often included in European radios and Chinese 10 meter rigs such as the Anytone AT-5555 and its various clones), and 24.265-29.655 MHz (12 meter/10 meter coverage radios such as the Superstar SS-158EDX and its various clones).
Many countries follow the US 40-channel plan, with most of Europe allowing for use of FM on these frequencies in addition to AM. SSB is legal in some parts of the world, in others only AM/FM or even just FM are allowed. The US CB frequency plan has been standardized Europe-wise as the "CEPT" band (or "mid band") in FM mode. Some countries (Germany, Czech Republic, Russia, the UK, New Zealand, etc) have additional channels authorized in addition to the standard 26.965-27.405 MHz US FCC/CEPT "mid band" allocation. Other countries (for example, South Africa, Japan) have entirely different allocations and/or use only a portion of the US FCC/CEPT mid band channel plan. See charts below for CB channel plans.
Legal Users of 25-30 MHz Spectrum
Aside from legal CB allocations and freebanding (or outbanding), there are several legal licensed services allocated to this interesting chunk of spectrum. This includes paging services, government, military, HF marine and FM land mobile. In the United States, the following bands are allocated for licensed use:
Frequency Range | Remarks |
---|
A search of the FCC database reveals the following:
Frequency | Remarks |
---|---|
29.790 MHz | 4 active licenses, including one repeater system belonging to Van Pool Transportation (WQMA652) |
29.770 MHz | 4 active licenses, including one repeater system and one high power car service dispatch system in New York City |
29.750 MHz | 4 active licenses, including two repeater systems and one high power school bus dispatch system |
29.730 MHz | 1 active license (WQQX896) |
29.710 MHz | 6 active licenses, including a 1000w repeater system and several high power forestry systems |
27.860 MHz | 0 active licenses, no previous (expired, canceled, etc) licenses found |
27.765 MHz | 0 active licenses, no previous (expired, canceled, etc) licenses found |
27.655 MHz | 0 active licenses, no previous (expired, canceled, etc) licenses found |
27.635 MHz | 0 active licenses, no previous (expired, canceled, etc) licenses found |
27.615 MHz | 0 active licenses, no previous (expired, canceled, etc) licenses found |
27.555 MHz | 0 active licenses, no previous (expired, canceled, etc) licenses found |
27.530 MHz | 3 active licenses, all less than 5 watts power output |
27.510 MHz | 2 active licenses, all less than 5 watts power output |
27.490 MHz | 63 active licenses, high power is authorized on this frequency |
27.470 MHz | 5 active licenses, specified for itinerant use only per FCC rules |
27.450 MHz | 5 active licenses, high power is authorized on this frequency |
27.430 MHz | 5 active licenses, high power is authorized on this frequency |
25.870 - 26.470 MHz | Hundreds of Remote Broadcast Pickup licenses, often only used for short periods |
25.990 MHz | 3 active licenses, including WBAP-AM's STL on 25.99 MHz WQGY434 transmitting 300 watts |
25.950 MHz | 5 active licenses |
25.910 MHz | 3 active licenses, including WBAP-AM's STL on 25.91 MHz WQGY434 transmitting 300 watts |
25.320 MHz | 1 active license (WQVJ608) |
25.300 MHz | 2 active licenses, KA6935 and WPTN464 |
25.280 MHz | 1 active license (WQVJ608) |
25.260 MHz | 1 active license (SHELL COMMUNICATIONS, INC callsign: KA6935) |
25.240 MHz | 1 active license (WQVJ608, also licensed for 25.28 MHz, 25.32 MHz, 27.45 MHz, 27.47 MHz) |
25.220 MHz | 1 active license (SHELL COMMUNICATIONS, INC callsign: KA6935) also 25.26, 25.30 |
25.200 MHz | 0 active licenses |
25.180 MHz | 4 active oil company licenses, 1 marine HF-SSB shore station license (WPTM574) |
25.160 MHz | 0 active licenses |
25.140 MHz | 4 active licenses, all oil companies, all for mobile operations only |
25.120 MHz | 0 active licenses |
25.100 MHz | 5 active licenses, oil companies and spill response companies (base stations and mobiles) |
25.080 MHz | Same licenses as 25.040 MHz / 25040 kHz |
25.060 MHz | 5 active licenses, all oil companies, all for mobile operations only |
25.040 MHz | 4 active licenses, including Marine Spill Response Corp WNYA617 |
25.020 MHz | 5 active licenses, all oil companies, all for mobile operations only |
CB Channel Plans
The so-called "A channels" are also heavily used, especially when a band opening makes finding a clear frequency difficult. The A channels are assigned to R/C and telemetry purposes in most countries (the USA included). These six frequencies fall under a different section of Part 95 of the FCC rules. 27.255 MHz (CB Channel 23) is also one of the R/C channels, but it is shared with CB.
See the bottom of this page for R/C, radio control, remote control, RC, telecommand, telemetry, etc frequencies.
US "FCC" "CEPT" or "mid band" CB Frequencies
AM and SSB Modulation in the Americas, Australia, Asia, FM allowed in Europe and elsewhere
CB Channel | Frequency |
---|---|
Channel 1 | 26.965 MHz |
Channel 2 | 26.975 MHz |
Channel 3 | 26.985 MHz |
Channel 4 | 27.005 MHz |
Channel 5 | 27.015 MHz |
Channel 6 | 27.025 MHz |
Channel 7 | 27.035 MHz |
Channel 8 | 27.055 MHz |
Channel 9 | 27.065 MHz |
Channel 10 | 27.075 MHz |
Channel 11 | 27.085 MHz |
Channel 12 | 27.105 MHz |
Channel 13 | 27.115 MHz |
Channel 14 | 27.125 MHz |
Channel 15 | 27.135 MHz |
Channel 16 | 27.155 MHz |
Channel 17 | 27.165 MHz |
Channel 18 | 27.175 MHz |
Channel 19 | 27.185 MHz |
Channel 20 | 27.205 MHz |
Channel 21 | 27.215 MHz |
Channel 22 | 27.225 MHz |
Channel 23 | 27.255 MHz |
Channel 24 | 27.235 MHz |
Channel 25 | 27.245 MHz |
Channel 26 | 27.265 MHz |
Channel 27 | 27.275 MHz |
Channel 28 | 27.285 MHz |
Channel 29 | 27.295 MHz |
Channel 30 | 27.305 MHz |
Channel 31 | 27.315 MHz |
Channel 32 | 27.325 MHz |
Channel 33 | 27.335 MHz |
Channel 34 | 27.345 MHz |
Channel 35 | 27.355 MHz |
Channel 36 | 27.365 MHz |
Channel 37 | 27.375 MHz |
Channel 38 | 27.385 MHz |
Channel 39 | 27.395 MHz |
Channel 40 | 27.405 MHz |
UK CB "27/81" Frequencies
FM (Frequency Modulation)
The UK allows use of the CEPT "mid band" allocation (same as US frequencies) in addition to the frequencies listed below. AM, FM and SSB are allowed on 26.965-27.405 MHz. FM is the only mode allowed on 27.60125-27.99125 MHz. In the UK, these frequencies are shared with the Community Audio Distribution Service (CADS) and the Republic of Ireland's similar service the Wireless Public Address System (WPAS). There does not appear to be specific rules regarding FM deviation or bandwidth. Given the 10 kHz channel steps used on both the mid band FM band and UK 27/81 FM band, having too much deviation could cause interference issues on adjacent frequencies. Modern FM CB radios use narrowband FM deviation while older sets continue to use 5 kHz "wideband" FM.
See below for the WPAS and CADS frequency listing.
The 27.6 MHz to 28.0 MHz allocation overlaps with CADS/WPAS and other services in various countries outside the UK, including paging/telemetry.
CB Channel | Frequency |
---|---|
Channel 1 | 27.60125 MHz |
Channel 2 | 27.61125 MHz |
Channel 3 | 27.62125 MHz |
Channel 4 | 27.63125 MHz |
Channel 5 | 27.64125 MHz |
Channel 6 | 27.65125 MHz |
Channel 7 | 27.66125 MHz |
Channel 8 | 27.67125 MHz |
Channel 9 | 27.68125 MHz |
Channel 10 | 27.69125 MHz |
Channel 11 | 27.70125 MHz |
Channel 12 | 27.71125 MHz |
Channel 13 | 27.72125 MHz |
Channel 14 | 27.73125 MHz |
Channel 15 | 27.74125 MHz |
Channel 16 | 27.75125 MHz |
Channel 17 | 27.76125 MHz |
Channel 18 | 27.77125 MHz |
Channel 19 | 27.78125 MHz |
Channel 20 | 27.79125 MHz |
Channel 21 | 27.80125 MHz |
Channel 22 | 27.81125 MHz |
Channel 23 | 27.82125 MHz |
Channel 24 | 27.83125 MHz |
Channel 25 | 27.84125 MHz |
Channel 26 | 27.85125 MHz |
Channel 27 | 27.86125 MHz |
Channel 28 | 27.87125 MHz |
Channel 29 | 27.88125 MHz |
Channel 30 | 27.89125 MHz |
Channel 31 | 27.90125 MHz |
Channel 32 | 27.91125 MHz |
Channel 33 | 27.92125 MHz |
Channel 34 | 27.93125 MHz |
Channel 35 | 27.94125 MHz |
Channel 36 | 27.95125 MHz |
Channel 37 | 27.96125 MHz |
Channel 38 | 27.97125 MHz |
Channel 39 | 27.98125 MHz |
Channel 40 | 27.99125 MHz |
Wireless Public Address Service WPAS Community Audio Distribution System CADS Frequencies
CADS operates on the 80 UK CB channels (standard CB channels 1-40 and UK FM CB channels 1-40) so 26965-27405 and 27601.25-27991.25 FM mode only. Ireland's WPAS service operates on two sets of 40 interleaved channels for a total of 80 channels. Although not technically authorized in Ireland, Churches often use the standard 40 "mid band CB" or "CEPT CB" channels as well. Ireland allows use of AM and FM on all 80 channels, while FM is the only mode allowed in the UK. Most CADS and WPAS transmissions are in FM, AM is the exception.
Note that the UK FM CB channels and LW01-LW40 WPAS channels are often offset, for example, instead of 27.60125 MHz, a church using an "export radio" with frequency agility will transmit on 27.601 MHz or even 27.600 MHz. With the local audience of these transmissions, a difference of 1 kHz or so makes very little, if any, difference...as the intended listeners are rarely more than a couple miles away from the transmitter. A small minority of churches broadcast outside the 26.965 MHz to 27.405 MHz and 27.6 MHz to 27.995 MHz regions, including the area below CB channel 1 (generally the "low band" frequencies of 26.515 MHz to 26.955 MHz, including the German CB extra channel allocation 26.565 MHz to 26.955 MHz) and the "freeband" frequency space between 27.405 MHz and 27.600 MHz.
For prldx's excellent list of WPAS/CADS 27 MHz Church Radio stations/broadcasts and logs, see this link:
WPAS Channel | Frequency MHz | Frequency kHz |
---|---|---|
Channel LW01 | 27.60125 MHz | 27601.25 kHz |
Channel LW02 | 27.61125 MHz | 27611.25 kHz |
Channel LW03 | 27.62125 MHz | 27621.25 kHz |
Channel LW04 | 27.63125 MHz | 27631.25 kHz |
Channel LW05 | 27.64125 MHz | 27641.25 kHz |
Channel LW06 | 27.65125 MHz | 27651.25 kHz |
Channel LW07 | 27.66125 MHz | 27661.25 kHz |
Channel LW08 | 27.67125 MHz | 27671.25 kHz |
Channel LW09 | 27.68125 MHz | 27681.25 kHz |
Channel LW10 | 27.69125 MHz | 27691.25 kHz |
Channel LW11 | 27.70125 MHz | 27701.25 kHz |
Channel LW12 | 27.71125 MHz | 27711.25 kHz |
Channel LW13 | 27.72125 MHz | 27721.25 kHz |
Channel LW14 | 27.73125 MHz | 27731.25 kHz |
Channel LW15 | 27.74125 MHz | 27741.25 kHz |
Channel LW16 | 27.75125 MHz | 27751.25 kHz |
Channel LW17 | 27.76125 MHz | 27761.25 kHz |
Channel LW18 | 27.77125 MHz | 27771.25 kHz |
Channel LW19 | 27.78125 MHz | 27781.25 kHz |
Channel LW20 | 27.79125 MHz | 27791.25 kHz |
Channel LW21 | 27.80125 MHz | 27801.25 kHz |
Channel LW22 | 27.81125 MHz | 27811.25 kHz |
Channel LW23 | 27.82125 MHz | 27821.25 kHz |
Channel LW24 | 27.83125 MHz | 27831.25 kHz |
Channel LW25 | 27.84125 MHz | 27841.25 kHz |
Channel LW26 | 27.85125 MHz | 27851.25 kHz |
Channel LW27 | 27.86125 MHz | 27861.25 kHz |
Channel LW28 | 27.87125 MHz | 27871.25 kHz |
Channel LW29 | 27.88125 MHz | 27881.25 kHz |
Channel LW30 | 27.89125 MHz | 27891.25 kHz |
Channel LW31 | 27.90125 MHz | 27901.25 kHz |
Channel LW32 | 27.91125 MHz | 27911.25 kHz |
Channel LW33 | 27.92125 MHz | 27921.25 kHz |
Channel LW34 | 27.93125 MHz | 27931.25 kHz |
Channel LW35 | 27.94125 MHz | 27941.25 kHz |
Channel LW36 | 27.95125 MHz | 27951.25 kHz |
Channel LW37 | 27.96125 MHz | 27961.25 kHz |
Channel LW38 | 27.97125 MHz | 27971.25 kHz |
Channel LW39 | 27.98125 MHz | 27981.25 kHz |
Channel LW40 | 27.99125 MHz | 27991.25 kHz |
Channel UW01 | 27.605 MHz | 27605 kHz |
Channel UW02 | 27.615 MHz | 27615 kHz |
Channel UW03 | 27.625 MHz | 27625 kHz |
Channel UW04 | 27.635 MHz | 27635 kHz |
Channel UW05 | 27.645 MHz | 27645 kHz |
Channel UW06 | 27.655 MHz | 27655 kHz |
Channel UW07 | 27.665 MHz | 27665 kHz |
Channel UW08 | 27.675 MHz | 27675 kHz |
Channel UW09 | 27.685 MHz | 27685 kHz |
Channel UW10 | 27.695 MHz | 27695 kHz |
Channel UW11 | 27.705 MHz | 27705 kHz |
Channel UW12 | 27.715 MHz | 27715 kHz |
Channel UW13 | 27.725 MHz | 27725 kHz |
Channel UW14 | 27.735 MHz | 27735 kHz |
Channel UW15 | 27.745 MHz | 27745 kHz |
Channel UW16 | 27.755 MHz | 27755 kHz |
Channel UW17 | 27.765 MHz | 27765 kHz |
Channel UW18 | 27.775 MHz | 27775 kHz |
Channel UW19 | 27.785 MHz | 27785 kHz |
Channel UW20 | 27.795 MHz | 27795 kHz |
Channel UW21 | 27.805 MHz | 27805 kHz |
Channel UW22 | 27.815 MHz | 27815 kHz |
Channel UW23 | 27.825 MHz | 27825 kHz |
Channel UW24 | 27.835 MHz | 27835 kHz |
Channel UW25 | 27.845 MHz | 27845 kHz |
Channel UW26 | 27.855 MHz | 27855 kHz |
Channel UW27 | 27.865 MHz | 27865 kHz |
Channel UW28 | 27.875 MHz | 27875 kHz |
Channel UW29 | 27.885 MHz | 27885 kHz |
Channel UW30 | 27.895 MHz | 27895 kHz |
Channel UW31 | 27.905 MHz | 27905 kHz |
Channel UW32 | 27.915 MHz | 27915 kHz |
Channel UW33 | 27.925 MHz | 27925 kHz |
Channel UW34 | 27.935 MHz | 27935 kHz |
Channel UW35 | 27.945 MHz | 27945 kHz |
Channel UW36 | 27.955 MHz | 27955 kHz |
Channel UW37 | 27.965 MHz | 27965 kHz |
Channel UW38 | 27.975 MHz | 27975 kHz |
Channel UW39 | 27.985 MHz | 27985 kHz |
Channel UW40 | 27.995 MHz | 27995 kHz |
German, Czech and Hungarian "Auxiliary" channels 41-80
FM modulation only in Germany, Czech Republic and Hungary. Digital modes allowed on specified channels in Germany. Designated channels 41-80 (channels 1-40 are the US/CEPT standardized channels).
CB Channel | Frequency |
---|---|
Channel 41 | 26.565 MHz |
Channel 42 | 26.575 MHz |
Channel 43 | 26.585 MHz |
Channel 44 | 26.595 MHz |
Channel 45 | 26.605 MHz |
Channel 46 | 26.615 MHz |
Channel 47 | 26.625 MHz |
Channel 48 | 26.635 MHz |
Channel 49 | 26.645 MHz |
Channel 50 | 26.655 MHz |
Channel 51 | 26.665 MHz |
Channel 52 | 26.675 MHz |
Channel 53 | 26.685 MHz |
Channel 54 | 26.695 MHz |
Channel 55 | 26.705 MHz |
Channel 56 | 26.715 MHz |
Channel 57 | 26.725 MHz |
Channel 58 | 26.735 MHz |
Channel 59 | 26.745 MHz |
Channel 60 | 26.755 MHz |
Channel 61 | 26.765 MHz |
Channel 62 | 26.775 MHz |
Channel 63 | 26.785 MHz |
Channel 64 | 26.795 MHz |
Channel 65 | 26.805 MHz |
Channel 66 | 26.815 MHz |
Channel 67 | 26.825 MHz |
Channel 68 | 26.835 MHz |
Channel 69 | 26.845 MHz |
Channel 70 | 26.855 MHz |
Channel 71 | 26.865 MHz |
Channel 72 | 26.875 MHz |
Channel 73 | 26.885 MHz |
Channel 74 | 26.895 MHz |
Channel 75 | 26.905 MHz |
Channel 76 | 26.915 MHz |
Channel 77 | 26.925 MHz |
Channel 78 | 26.935 MHz |
Channel 79 | 26.945 MHz |
Channel 80 | 26.955 MHz |
Australian 27 MHz Marine CB
AM mode. 4 watt carrier TX power limit. No limit on antenna size or gain. Same specifications as AM CB radio. Modern Australian "27 Meg" 27 MHz marine radio equipment usually includes regular US 40-channels in addition to the frequencies below. This sort of dual-use dual radio service equipment appears to be legal in Australia.
27.88 MHz (CH 88) and 27.86 MHz (CH 86) are monitored by coast stations for emergency/distress traffic. 27 MHz marine equipment - often referred to as 27 Megs or 27 Meg radios in Australia - still remain popular for recreational boaters due to licensing and registration requirements to operate on the standard VHF marine band. Many vessels are equipped with dedicated HF-SSB equipment, a stand-alone 27MHz marine radio, and VHF marine equipment, with the 27 MHz gear being used for backup or supplementary purposes. It is due to favorable propagation characteristics over open water that low power 26-30 MHz marine systems remain popular. See the other sections of this article for information regarding 11 meter marine radio bands in other countries.
27 MHz marine gear sold in Australia is often "dual-use" equipment with the capability to be converted to the 29 MHz South African CB frequencies, several of which are used as a supplementary 29 MHz marine band in South Africa.
CB Channel | Frequency |
---|---|
Channel 68 | 27.680 MHz Commercial Boats/Fishing |
Channel 72 | 27.720 MHz Commercial Boats/Fishing |
Channel 82 | 27.820 MHz Commercial Boats/Fishing |
Channel 86 | 27.860 MHz Supplementary Distress/Safety/Calling |
Channel 88 | 27.880 MHz Distress/Safety/Calling |
Channel 90 | 27.900 MHz Non-commercial Boats |
Channel 91 | 27.910 MHz Non-commercial Boats |
Channel 94 | 27.940 MHz Non-commercial Boats, Yacht clubs |
Channel 96 | 27.960 MHz Non-commercial Boats |
Channel 98 | 27.980 MHz Rescue calling/working (supplementary to 27.880 and 27.860 MHz) |
New Zealand "CBL" and "CBH" channels
AM and SSB modulation. The CBH channels are the same as the US channels, giving New Zealand a total of 80 HF CB channels. Often referred to as "AM CB" to avoid confusion with the 476-477 MHz "FM CB" UHF CB allocation also in use in New Zealand.
CB Channel | Frequency |
---|---|
Channel 1 | 26.330 MHz |
Channel 2 | 26.340 MHz |
Channel 3 | 26.350 MHz |
Channel 4 | 26.370 MHz |
Channel 5 | 26.380 MHz |
Channel 6 | 26.390 MHz |
Channel 7 | 26.400 MHz |
Channel 8 | 26.420 MHz |
Channel 9 | 26.430 MHz |
Channel 10 | 26.440 MHz |
Channel 11 | 26.450 MHz |
Channel 12 | 26.470 MHz |
Channel 13 | 26.480 MHz |
Channel 14 | 26.490 MHz |
Channel 15 | 26.500 MHz |
Channel 16 | 26.520 MHz |
Channel 17 | 26.530 MHz |
Channel 18 | 26.540 MHz |
Channel 19 | 26.550 MHz |
Channel 20 | 26.570 MHz |
Channel 21 | 26.580 MHz |
Channel 22 | 26.590 MHz |
Channel 23 | 26.620 MHz |
Channel 24 | 26.600 MHz |
Channel 25 | 26.610 MHz |
Channel 26 | 26.630 MHz |
Channel 27 | 26.640 MHz |
Channel 28 | 26.650 MHz |
Channel 29 | 26.660 MHz |
Channel 30 | 26.670 MHz |
Channel 31 | 26.680 MHz |
Channel 32 | 26.690 MHz |
Channel 33 | 26.700 MHz |
Channel 34 | 26.710 MHz |
Channel 35 | 26.720 MHz |
Channel 36 | 26.730 MHz |
Channel 37 | 26.740 MHz |
Channel 38 | 26.750 MHz |
Channel 39 | 26.760 MHz |
Channel 40 | 26.770 MHz |
Russian CB Channel Frequencies
Russia as two sets of 120 channels for a total of 240 channels. Unlike most countries, Russia has 5 kHz channel steps. Frequency coverage is 26.510 MHz to 27.855 MHz. Like most other countries, 24-30 MHz is filled with CB and CB-like traffic. Russian taxi cab dispatchers are heard all over Europe in 12 meters through 10 meters during band openings.
AM and FM modulation. SSB used on some frequencies but not allowed. Channels are referred using an alphanumeric designation that provides the band, channel number, and "raster" (last digit of frequency, 5 or 0) plus the mode. Most radios used in Russia use the band letter + channel number format to display channels, and/or include a frequency display due to the complexity of the system. The "E" channels are more commonly used in Russia compared to the older-generation "R" channels (original Russian/Polish/Eastern European CB channel plan).
Common band designations:
B band: 26.515-26.955 MHz (E raster) 26.510-26.950 MHz (R raster) 40 channels 5 kHz offset + 40 channels 0 kHz offset C band: 26.965-27.405 MHz (E raster) 26.960-27.400 MHz (R raster) 40 channels 5 kHz offset + 40 channels 0 kHz offset D band: 27.415-27.855 MHz (E raster) 27.410-27.850 MHz (R raster) 40 channels 5 kHz offset + 40 channels 0 kHz offset + channel number + mode (AM or FM, often written as "A" or "F")
For example, 27.185 MHz FM is designated
C19EF (band C, channel 19, E raster/channeling, FM mode)
Modern CB radios sold in Europe and Asia often include "RU" mode as a country setting. More often than not, this opens up the radio to 25.615 MHz to 30.105 MHz in 5/10 kHz steps AM/FM mode. Russia suffers from heavy interference on the 10 meter amateur radio band due to the high number of radios operating above and below the legal CB frequencies and nil enforcement on the behalf of Russian authorities. Therefore, the "Russia CB band" can be difficult to pin down as far as the actual frequencies, some sources now simply state "25 to 30 MHz"
Note: Compared to the table below, most export radios sold in the Americas and Western Europe have the CB band as Band D, not Band C. Therefore Channels B01-B40 would be C01-C40, channels C01-C40 would be channels D01-D40 and so on and so forth.
Channel | "zeros" (R) channel | "fives" (E) channel |
---|---|---|
Channel B01 | 26.510 MHz | 26.515 MHz |
Channel B02 | 26.520 MHz | 26.525 MHz |
Channel B03 | 26.530 MHz | 26.535 MHz |
Channel B04 | 26.550 MHz | 26.555 MHz |
Channel B05 | 26.560 MHz | 26.565 MHz |
Channel B06 | 26.570 MHz | 26.575 MHz |
Channel B07 | 26.580 MHz | 26.585 MHz |
Channel B08 | 26.600 MHz | 26.625 MHz |
Channel B09 | 26.610 MHz | 26.615 MHz |
Channel B10 | 26.620 MHz | 26.625 MHz |
Channel B11 | 26.630 MHz | 26.635 MHz |
Channel B12 | 26.650 MHz | 26.655 MHz |
Channel B13 | 26.660 MHz | 26.655 MHz |
Channel B14 | 26.670 MHz | 26.675 MHz |
Channel B15 | 26.680 MHz | 26.685 MHz |
Channel B16 | 26.700 MHz | 26.705 MHz |
Channel B17 | 26.710 MHz | 26.715 MHz |
Channel B18 | 26.720 MHz | 26.725 MHz |
Channel B19 | 26.730 MHz | 26.735 MHz |
Channel B20 | 26.750 MHz | 26.755 MHz |
Channel B21 | 26.760 MHz | 26.765 MHz |
Channel B22 | 26.770 MHz | 26.775 MHz |
Channel B23 | 26.800 MHz | 26.805 MHz |
Channel B24 | 26.780 MHz | 26.785 MHz |
Channel B25 | 26.790 MHz | 26.795 MHz |
Channel B26 | 26.810 MHz | 26.815 MHz |
Channel B27 | 26.820 MHz | 26.825 MHz |
Channel B28 | 26.830 MHz | 26.835 MHz |
Channel B29 | 26.840 MHz | 26.845 MHz |
Channel B30 | 26.850 MHz | 26.855 MHz |
Channel B31 | 26.860 MHz | 26.865 MHz |
Channel B32 | 26.870 MHz | 26.875 MHz |
Channel B33 | 26.880 MHz | 26.885 MHz |
Channel B34 | 26.890 MHz | 26.895 MHz |
Channel B35 | 26.900 MHz | 26.905 MHz |
Channel B36 | 26.910 MHz | 26.915 MHz |
Channel B37 | 26.920 MHz | 26.925 MHz |
Channel B38 | 26.930 MHz | 26.935 MHz |
Channel B39 | 26.940 MHz | 26.945 MHz |
Channel B40 | 26.950 MHz | 26.955 MHz |
Channel C01 | 26.960 MHz | 26.965 MHz |
Channel C02 | 26.970 MHz | 26.975 MHz |
Channel C03 | 26.980 MHz | 26.985 MHz |
Channel C04 | 27.000 MHz | 27.005 MHz |
Channel C05 | 27.010 MHz | 27.015 MHz |
Channel C06 | 27.020 MHz | 27.025 MHz |
Channel C07 | 27.030 MHz | 27.035 MHz |
Channel C08 | 27.050 MHz | 27.055 MHz |
Channel C09 | 27.060 MHz | 27.065 MHz |
Channel C10 | 27.070 MHz | 27.075 MHz |
Channel C11 | 27.080 MHz | 27.085 MHz |
Channel C12 | 27.100 MHz | 27.105 MHz |
Channel C13 | 27.110 MHz | 27.115 MHz |
Channel C14 | 27.120 MHz | 27.125 MHz |
Channel C15 | 27.130 MHz | 27.135 MHz |
Channel C16 | 27.150 MHz | 27.155 MHz |
Channel C17 | 27.160 MHz | 27.165 MHz |
Channel C18 | 27.170 MHz | 27.175 MHz |
Channel C19 | 27.180 MHz | 27.185 MHz |
Channel C20 | 27.200 MHz | 27.205 MHz |
Channel C21 | 27.210 MHz | 27.215 MHz |
Channel C22 | 27.220 MHz | 27.225 MHz |
Channel C23 | 27.250 MHz | 27.255 MHz |
Channel C24 | 27.230 MHz | 27.235 MHz |
Channel C25 | 27.240 MHz | 27.245 MHz |
Channel C26 | 27.260 MHz | 27.265 MHz |
Channel C27 | 27.270 MHz | 27.275 MHz |
Channel C28 | 27.280 MHz | 27.285 MHz |
Channel C29 | 27.290 MHz | 27.295 MHz |
Channel C30 | 27.300 MHz | 27.305 MHz |
Channel C31 | 27.310 MHz | 27.315 MHz |
Channel C32 | 27.320 MHz | 27.325 MHz |
Channel C33 | 27.330 MHz | 27.335 MHz |
Channel C34 | 27.340 MHz | 27.345 MHz |
Channel C35 | 27.350 MHz | 27.355 MHz |
Channel C36 | 27.360 MHz | 27.365 MHz |
Channel C37 | 27.370 MHz | 27.375 MHz |
Channel C38 | 27.380 MHz | 27.385 MHz |
Channel C39 | 27.390 MHz | 27.395 MHz |
Channel C40 | 27.400 MHz | 27.405 MHz |
Channel D01 | 27.410 MHz | 27.415 MHz |
Channel D02 | 27.420 MHz | 27.425 MHz |
Channel D03 | 27.430 MHz | 27.435 MHz |
Channel D04 | 27.450 MHz | 27.455 MHz |
Channel D05 | 27.460 MHz | 27.465 MHz |
Channel D06 | 27.470 MHz | 27.475 MHz |
Channel D07 | 27.480 MHz | 27.485 MHz |
Channel D08 | 27.500 MHz | 27.505 MHz |
Channel D09 | 27.510 MHz | 27.515 MHz |
Channel D10 | 27.520 MHz | 27.525 MHz |
Channel D11 | 27.530 MHz | 27.535 MHz |
Channel D12 | 27.550 MHz | 27.555 MHz |
Channel D13 | 27.560 MHz | 27.565 MHz |
Channel D14 | 27.570 MHz | 27.575 MHz |
Channel D15 | 27.580 MHz | 27.585 MHz |
Channel D16 | 27.600 MHz | 27.605 MHz |
Channel D17 | 27.610 MHz | 27.615 MHz |
Channel D18 | 27.620 MHz | 27.625 MHz |
Channel D19 | 27.630 MHz | 27.635 MHz |
Channel D20 | 27.650 MHz | 27.655 MHz |
Channel D21 | 27.660 MHz | 27.665 MHz |
Channel D22 | 27.670 MHz | 27.675 MHz |
Channel D23 | 27.700 MHz | 27.705 MHz |
Channel D24 | 27.680 MHz | 27.685 MHz |
Channel D25 | 27.690 MHz | 27.695 MHz |
Channel D26 | 27.710 MHz | 27.715 MHz |
Channel D27 | 27.720 MHz | 27.735 MHz |
Channel D28 | 27.730 MHz | 27.735 MHz |
Channel D29 | 27.740 MHz | 27.745 MHz |
Channel D30 | 27.750 MHz | 27.755 MHz |
Channel D31 | 27.760 MHz | 27.765 MHz |
Channel D32 | 27.770 MHz | 27.775 MHz |
Channel D33 | 27.780 MHz | 27.785 MHz |
Channel D34 | 27.790 MHz | 27.795 MHz |
Channel D35 | 27.800 MHz | 27.805 MHz |
Channel D36 | 27.810 MHz | 27.815 MHz |
Channel D37 | 27.820 MHz | 27.825 MHz |
Channel D38 | 27.830 MHz | 27.835 MHz |
Channel D39 | 27.840 MHz | 27.845 MHz |
Channel D40 | 27.850 MHz | 27.855 MHz |
Japan CB Radio Frequencies
AM modulation only. 0.5 watt (500mw) power limit. Often included as part of the Japanese "DSB Fishery Radio Service" (27 MHz fishery radio system) that covers 26.760 MHz to 27.988 MHz in odd steps. Some fishery radio marine frequencies in-between CB channels. Illegal CB operations on the American/Australian frequencies is apparently common in Japan, despite the potential for interference with marine radio service allocations. These frequencies are often used in conjunction with the "standard" 10 kHz CB channeling for fishing, marine transport and other maritime purposes in Japan, Taiwan, China, and several other Asian countries.
CB Channel | Frequency |
---|---|
Channel 1 | 26.968 MHz |
Channel 2 | 26.976 MHz |
Channel 3 | 27.040 MHz |
Channel 4 | 27.080 MHz |
Channel 5 | 27.088 MHz |
Channel 6 | 27.112 MHz |
Channel 7 | 27.120 MHz |
Channel 8 | 27.144 MHz |
Frequency Range (kHz) | Service Allocation |
---|---|
26760-26944 kHz | 1W DSB Fishery Radio Service |
26968-26976 kHz | Japanese CB channels 1-2 |
27016 kHz | 1W DSB Fishery Radio Service |
27040-27144 kHz | Japanese CB channels 3-8 |
27310.5-27470.5 kHz | 25W SSB Fishery Radio Service |
27524-27980 kHz | 1W DSB Fishery Radio Service |
Japanese 27MHz Double Side Band DSB Marine Fishery Radio
1W-DSB FISHERY RADIO SERVICE JAPAN
26.760-27.988 MHz. 1 watt maximum carrier power, often overlaid with standard 10 kHz step "marine CB" channeling. See 0.5 watt Japanese CB frequencies above. Not designated channel numbers per Japanese law, referred to by frequency. Radios display frequency and often feature selective calling features. Similar services exist in other Asian countries, with varying frequency allocations. Radios sold in Taiwan covering 26.475-27.275 MHz, others covering 26.065-28.755 MHz, 24.265-29.655 MHz, the de facto standard export 25.615-30.105 MHz or other obvious "overlays" from the standard CB channels. Radios for the 1 watt DSB Fishery Radio Service are still sold as of 2017, despite issues the widespread proliferation of cheaper "export", "10 meter" and "marine CB" equipment. Ranger Communications (RCI) sells "Marine CB" equipment that covers 26.065-28.755 MHz out of the box. The 10 meter band is often plagued by fishery radio interference because of this.
CB Channel | Frequency |
---|---|
Channel 26760 | 26.760 MHz |
Channel 26768 | 26.768 MHz |
Channel 26776 | 26.776 MHz |
Channel 26824 | 26.824 MHz |
Channel 26840 | 26.840 MHz |
Channel 26848 | 26.848 MHz |
Channel 26856 | 26.856 MHz |
Channel 26864 | 26.864 MHz |
Channel 26872 | 26.872 MHz |
Channel 26880 | 26.880 MHz |
Channel 26888 | 26.888 MHz |
Channel 26896 | 26.896 MHz |
Channel 26912 | 26.912 MHz |
Channel 26920 | 26.920 MHz |
Channel 26928 | 26.928 MHz |
Channel 26936 | 26.936 MHz |
Channel 26944 | 26.944 MHz |
Channel 27016 | 27.016 MHz |
Channel 27524 | 27.524 MHz |
Channel 27532 | 27.532 MHz |
Channel 27540 | 27.540 MHz |
Channel 27548 | 27.548 MHz |
Channel 27556 | 27.556 MHz |
Channel 27572 | 27.572 MHz |
Channel 27580 | 27.580 MHz |
Channel 27628 | 27.628 MHz |
Channel 27636 | 27.636 MHz |
Channel 27644 | 27.644 MHz |
Channel 27652 | 27.652 MHz |
Channel 27660 | 27.660 MHz |
Channel 27668 | 27.668 MHz |
Channel 27676 | 27.676 MHz |
Channel 27724 | 27.724 MHz |
Channel 27732 | 27.732 MHz |
Channel 27740 | 27.740 MHz |
Channel 27748 | 27.748 MHz |
Channel 27756 | 27.756 MHz |
Channel 27764 | 27.764 MHz |
Channel 27772 | 27.772 MHz |
Channel 27780 | 27.780 MHz |
Channel 27828 | 27.828 MHz |
Channel 27836 | 27.836 MHz |
Channel 27852 | 27.852 MHz |
Channel 27860 | 27.860 MHz |
Channel 27884 | 27.884 MHz |
Channel 27892 | 27.892 MHz |
Channel 27908 | 27.908 MHz |
Channel 27916 | 27.916 MHz |
Channel 27932 | 27.932 MHz |
Channel 27940 | 27.940 MHz |
Channel 27956 | 27.956 MHz |
Channel 27964 | 27.964 MHz |
Channel 27980 | 27.980 MHz |
Channel 27988 | 27.988 MHz |
Japanese 27MHz Single Side Band SSB Marine Fishery Radio
In addition to the 26 / 27 MHz double side band 1W-DSB (1 watt AM) fishery radio service available in Japan, a higher power SSB service exists in the same frequency band. J3E emission, 25 watt power limit (per Japanese regulation). Like the 1W DSB 27MHz marine service, many of these frequencies overlap with the traditional CB bands in use outside of Japan. Frequencies licensed to individual fisheries, just like the 1 watt DSB service, the MF/HF services, the standard VHF marine band, and other UHF bands only available in Japan.
Frequency (kHz) | Frequency (MHz) |
---|---|
27310.5 kHz | 27.3105 MHz |
27334.5 kHz | 27.3345 MHz |
27338.5 kHz | 27.3385 MHz |
27342.5 kHz | 27.3425 MHz |
27346.5 kHz | 27.3465 MHz |
27350.5 kHz | 27.3505 MHz |
27354.5 kHz | 27.3545 MHz |
27358.5 kHz | 27.3585 MHz |
27362.5 kHz | 27.3625 MHz |
27366.5 kHz | 27.3665 MHz |
27370.5 kHz | 27.3705 MHz |
27378.5 kHz | 27.3785 MHz |
27382.5 kHz | 27.3825 MHz |
27386.5 kHz | 27.3865 MHz |
27388.5 kHz | 27.3885 MHz |
27398.5 kHz | 27.3985 MHz |
27404.5 kHz | 27.4045 MHz |
27418.5 kHz | 27.4185 MHz |
27426.5 kHz | 27.4265 MHz |
27434.5 kHz | 27.4345 MHz |
27442.5 kHz | 27.4425 MHz |
27452.5 kHz | 27.4525 MHz |
27458.5 kHz | 27.4585 MHz |
27466.5 kHz | 27.4665 MHz |
27470.5 kHz | 27.4705 MHz |
Republic of Korea / South Korea Fishery Radio 27 MHz
South Korea allows use of the 26.965-27.405 MHz "Citizen Radio" allocation in addition to 27.400 MHz (27.402 MHz offset also allowed), 27.410 MHz, 27.420 MHz (27.422 MHz offset frequency also permitted) and 27.440 MHz for paging purposes.
Frequency (kHz) | Frequency (MHz) | Designated Use in Korea |
---|---|---|
27508 kHz | 27.508 MHz | Fishery Radio - Ship to Ship Maritime Mobile |
27516 kHz | 27.516 MHz | Fishery Radio - Ship to Ship Maritime Mobile |
27544 kHz | 27.544 MHz | Fishery Radio - Ship to Ship Maritime Mobile |
27552 kHz | 27.552 MHz | Fishery Radio - Ship to Ship Maritime Mobile |
27560 kHz | 27.560 MHz | Fishery Radio - Ship to Ship Maritime Mobile |
27581 kHz | 27.581 MHz | Fishery Radio - Ship to Ship Maritime Mobile |
27598 kHz | 27.598 MHz | Fishery Radio - Ship to Ship Maritime Mobile |
27768 kHz | 27.552 MHz | Fishery Radio - Ship to Ship Maritime Mobile |
27776 kHz | 27.776 MHz | Fishery Radio - Ship to Ship Maritime Mobile |
27895 kHz | 27.895 MHz | Fishery Radio - Ship to Ship Maritime Mobile |
27911 kHz | 27.911 MHz | Fishery Radio - Ship to Ship Maritime Mobile |
27919 kHz | 27.919 MHz | Fishery Radio - Ship to Ship Maritime Mobile |
27927 kHz | 27.927 MHz | Fishery Radio - Ship to Ship Maritime Mobile |
27935 kHz | 27.935 MHz | Fishery Radio - Ship to Ship Maritime Mobile |
27943 kHz | 27.943 MHz | Fishery Radio - Ship to Ship Maritime Mobile |
27789 kHz | 27.789 MHz | Fishery Radio - Fisheries Radio Shore-to-Ship |
27805 kHz | 27.805 MHz | Fishery Radio - Fisheries Radio Shore-to-Ship |
27821 kHz | 27.821 MHz | Fishery Radio - Distress Safety Calling Emergency Frequency |
27837 kHz | 27.837 MHz | Fishery Radio - Fisheries Radio Shore-to-Ship |
27856 kHz | 27.856 MHz | Fishery Radio - Fisheries Radio Shore-to-Ship |
27869 kHz | 27.869 MHz | Fishery Radio - Fisheries Radio Shore-to-Ship |
27885 kHz | 27.885 MHz | Fishery Radio - Fisheries Radio Shore-to-Ship |
South Africa (27 MHz CB)
AM and SSB (USB only). 9 channels, 27.185-27.275 MHz.
CB Channel | Frequency |
---|---|
Channel 19 | 27.185 MHz |
Channel 20 | 27.205 MHz |
Channel 21 | 27.215 MHz |
Channel 22 | 27.225 MHz |
Channel 23 | 27.255 MHz |
Channel 24 | 27.235 MHz |
Channel 25 | 27.245 MHz |
Channel 26 | 27.265 MHz |
Channel 27 | 27.275 MHz |
South Africa (29 MHz CB)
AM on all channels. SSB only allowed on specified channels. 23 channels, 29.710 MHz - 29.985 MHz. 12.5 kHz steps. Some channels have multiple designations depending on their intended use. Used by boating clubs, 4x4 groups, farmers, etc. South African 4x4 groups are starting to migrate to VHF/UHF services but a 29 MHz CB appears to still be required equipment for many of these clubs (much like a 27 MHz CB is required by Jeep and 4x4 clubs in the US and UK).
29 MHz CB marine usage in South Africa is analogous to 27 MHz marine CB usage in Australia. It remains in use by recreational boats, often in conjunction with VHF marine equipment on recreational and fishing boats. Only 3 channels are available for marine use under South African law, 29.935 MHz (29 MHz marine channel 1 or channel A), 29.7725 MHz (29 MHz marine channel 2 or channel B) and 29.9725 MHz (29 MHz marine channel 3 or channel C).
CB Channel | Frequency |
---|---|
Channel 1 | 29.7100 MHz AM - General Purpose |
Channel 2 | 29.7225 MHz AM - General Purpose |
Channel 3 | 29.7350 MHz AM - General Purpose |
Channel 4 | 29.7475 MHz AM/SSB - Civil Defense Channel 2 |
Channel 5 | 29.7600 MHz AM - General Purpose |
Channel 6 | 29.7725 MHz AM - Marine Channel 2/B |
Channel 7 | 29.7850 MHz AM - General Purpose |
Channel 8 | 29.7975 MHz AM - General Purpose |
Channel 9 | 29.8100 MHz AM - General Purpose |
Channel 10 | 29.8225 MHz AM/SSB - Civil Defense Channel 2 |
Channel 11 | 29.8350 MHz AM - General Purpose |
Channel 12 | 29.8475 MHz AM/SSB - Civil Defense Channel 1 |
Channel 13 | 29.8600 MHz AM - General Purpose |
Channel 14 | 29.8725 MHz AM - General Purpose |
Channel 15 | 29.8850 MHz AM - General Purpose |
Channel 16 | 29.8975 MHz AM - General Purpose |
Channel 17 | 29.9100 MHz AM - General Purpose |
Channel 18 | 29.9225 MHz AM/SSB - Civil Defense Channel 5 |
Channel 19 | 29.9350 MHz AM - Marine Channel 1/A |
Channel 20 | 29.9475 MHz AM/SSB - Civil Defense Channel 3 |
Channel 21 | 29.9600 MHz AM - General Purpose |
Channel 22 | 29.9725 MHz AM - Marine Channel 3/C |
Channel 23 | 29.9850 MHz AM/SSB - Civil Defense Channel 6 |
India 27 channel 27MHz CB
AM and FM modes allowed. 5 watt maximum transmit power, no limit on antenna gain. Unclear if SSB is permitted. 26.96-27.28 MHz. Several VHF and UHF services are allowed in India for two-way radio, making 26 MHz/27 MHz CB radio a bit of a niche. However, so-called multi-norm AM/FM CB radios are beginning to be shipped with the Indian band programmed in as one of the country modes the user may select.
CB Channel | Frequency |
---|---|
Channel 1 | 26.965 MHz |
Channel 2 | 26.975 MHz |
Channel 3 | 26.985 MHz |
Channel 4 | 27.005 MHz |
Channel 5 | 27.015 MHz |
Channel 6 | 27.025 MHz |
Channel 7 | 27.035 MHz |
Channel 8 | 27.055 MHz |
Channel 9 | 27.065 MHz |
Channel 10 | 27.075 MHz |
Channel 11 | 27.085 MHz |
Channel 12 | 27.105 MHz |
Channel 13 | 27.115 MHz |
Channel 14 | 27.125 MHz |
Channel 15 | 27.135 MHz |
Channel 16 | 27.155 MHz |
Channel 17 | 27.165 MHz |
Channel 18 | 27.175 MHz |
Channel 19 | 27.185 MHz |
Channel 20 | 27.205 MHz |
Channel 21 | 27.215 MHz |
Channel 22 | 27.225 MHz |
Channel 23 | 27.255 MHz |
Channel 24 | 27.235 MHz |
Channel 25 | 27.245 MHz |
Channel 26 | 27.265 MHz |
Channel 27 | 27.275 MHz |
Brazilian "high band" channels 41-80
AM and SSB allowed. Up to 25 watts output power. 27.415-27.855 MHz high band or "uppers". Channels 1-40 are the same as the US FCC/CEPT channels. The frequencies 27.445 MHz, 27.495 MHz, 27.545 MHz, 27.595 MHz and 27.645 MHz are skipped in this channel plan. They are, however, still heavily used in Brazil and elsewhere in Latin America.
CB Channel | Frequency |
---|---|
Channel 41 | 27.415 MHz |
Channel 42 | 27.425 MHz |
Channel 43 | 27.435 MHz |
Channel 44 | 27.455 MHz |
Channel 45 | 27.465 MHz |
Channel 46 | 27.475 MHz |
Channel 47 | 27.485 MHz |
Channel 48 | 27.505 MHz |
Channel 49 | 27.515 MHz |
Channel 50 | 27.525 MHz |
Channel 51 | 27.535 MHz |
Channel 52 | 27.555 MHz |
Channel 53 | 27.565 MHz |
Channel 54 | 27.575 MHz |
Channel 55 | 27.585 MHz |
Channel 56 | 27.605 MHz |
Channel 57 | 27.615 MHz |
Channel 58 | 27.625 MHz |
Channel 59 | 27.635 MHz |
Channel 60 | 27.655 MHz |
Channel 61 | 27.665 MHz |
Channel 62 | 27.675 MHz |
Channel 63 | 27.685 MHz |
Channel 64 | 27.695 MHz |
Channel 65 | 27.705 MHz |
Channel 66 | 27.715 MHz |
Channel 67 | 27.725 MHz |
Channel 68 | 27.735 MHz |
Channel 69 | 27.745 MHz |
Channel 70 | 27.755 MHz |
Channel 71 | 27.765 MHz |
Channel 72 | 27.775 MHz |
Channel 73 | 27.785 MHz |
Channel 74 | 27.795 MHz |
Channel 75 | 27.805 MHz |
Channel 76 | 27.815 MHz |
Channel 77 | 27.825 MHz |
Channel 78 | 27.835 MHz |
Channel 79 | 27.845 MHz |
Channel 80 | 27.855 MHz |
27 MHz 11 meter band CB Repeaters
25-30 MHz simplex echo parrot CB repeaters, mostly operating in the 26 MHz and 27 MHz CB bands (Russian bands). Commonly referred to as "parrots" or "echo repeaters" these are simplex repeaters (store-and-forward). Due the easy availability and low prices of these devices, 11-meter repeaters are becoming more and more popular, especially in parts of the world where FM mode is allowed/used in addition to AM/SSB. Russia is the heaviest user of CB repeaters, due to its large size, heavy reliance on CB for the taxi, delivery, trucking and roadside assistance industries.
All listed repeaters operate in FM mode. The vast majority are carrier squelch, however some require a CTCSS tone (usually 77.0Hz or 88.5Hz) to open the repeater and/or access cross-band links. If any CTCSS/PL tone is known, it is included with the repeater listing.
CB Repeater Networks Crossband Link to VHF/UHF Systems and Internet Services
Several of these repeaters operate as part of larger "networks" or "systems" linked together via the Internet or VHF / UHF Radio services such as PMR446, LPD433, FRS, GMRS, MURS or other country-specific systems. It appears that the most popular crossband links are in the 433.075-434.775 MHz LPD433 service in Russia and the 446.0-446.2 MHz PMR446 service elsewhere in Europe In the Americas, both the UHF FRS and GMRS services and the VHF MURS services have been used to link CB repeaters.
Cross band repeat and links sometimes operate on unlicensed frequencies and/or operate with higher-than-legal power levels within legal frequencies. For example, maximum power output on LPD433 is 10mW, however several Russian 27 MHz repeaters are using modified high power amateur radios on the LPD433 frequencies as part of their linking system. Other linking systems used modified 43 MHz Italian "VHF CB" equipment such as the Alan HM43, Intek/Dragon SY-5430 which is popular in Russia and the CIS nations for its capability to be easily modified to cover 42.3000 MHz to 45.0875 MHz at 25w output power.
CB Repeater Listing
Three repeaters on this list are true split-frequency systems:
Output Frequency | Input Frequency | Location | Remarks |
---|---|---|---|
26.565 MHz | 27.405 MHz | Germany | CH41 output/CH40 input (German 80-channel CB) |
27.085 MHz | 27.175 MHz | Netherlands | Multiple TX/RX sites, each site assigned a CW ID transmitted at the end of transmission |
27.620 MHz | 27.820 MHz | Jamaica | Optional CTCSS tone: 88.5Hz (was part of a linked system, unknown if still on the air) |
Due to the nature of these simplex repeaters being hobbyist owned/operated, this list is likely, and is likely to remain, incomplete. the repeaters listed below may switch frequencies or temporarily go off the air please update this list with any new information regarding frequencies, transmit location or transmit power for entries missing this information.
Below is a list of confirmed [as of December 2016] CB repeaters and their location (if known).
Frequency | Location | Remarks | |
---|---|---|---|
26.565 MHz | Germany | Output (input 27.405 MHz) | |
26.575 MHz | Germany | ||
26.675 MHz | |||
26.685 MHz | Western Russia | ||
26.715 MHz | Chelyabinsk, Russia | ||
26.915 MHz | |||
26.925 MHz | |||
26.935 MHz | |||
26.970 MHz | Poland (multiple sites) | ||
26.970 MHz | Russia (multiple sites) | ||
26.970 MHz | Lithuania | ||
26.975 MHz | Samara, Russia | 10 watt TX power | |
26.985 MHz | Samara, Russia | 10 watt TX power | |
26.985 MHz | Tver, Russia | ||
26.985 MHz | Sweden | At least two sites (see also 27.205 MHz FM) | |
27.000 MHz | Kiev, Ukraine | ||
27.005 MHz | Yekaterinburg (Ekaterinburg), Russia | ||
27.015 MHz | Moscow, Russia (multiple sites) | ||
27.015 MHz | Samara, Russia | 10 watt TX power | |
27.015 MHz | Naro-Fominsk, Russia | ||
27.030 MHz | Minsk, Belarus | ||
27.030 MHz | Shymkent, Kazakhstan | ||
27.035 MHz | Kiev, Ukraine | 4 watt TX power | |
27.040 MHz | Minsk, Belarus | ||
27.060 MHz | Kiev, Ukraine | ||
27.070 MHz | |||
27.075 MHz | Eastern Russia | ||
27.085 MHz | Altai Region, South-Central Russia | ||
27.085 MHz | Netherlands (several locations) | Simplex, each location ends transmission with single letter CW ID | |
27.085 MHz | Netherlands (several locations) | Output (input 27.175 MHz), each location has unique end of transmission CW ID | |
27.100 MHz | Gomel, Belarus | 100 watt TX power | |
27.100 MHz | Krasnodar, Russia | ||
27.105 MHz | Ulyanovsk, Russia | 4 watt TX power | |
27.105 MHz | Astana, Kazakhstan | ||
27.110 MHz | Poland | ||
27.110 MHz | Russia | ||
27.135 MHz | Moscow, Russia | ||
27.150 MHz | Poland | ||
27.165 MHz | Issyk, Kazakhstan | ||
27.170 MHz | Poland | ||
27.170 MHz | Russia (multiple sites) | ||
27.175 MHz | Taraz, Kazakhstan | ||
27.175 MHz | Netherlands (several locations) | Input (Output 27.085 MHz), each location has unique end of transmission CW ID | |
27.180 MHz | Multiple sites Eastern Europe/Russia | ||
27.185 MHz | Multiple sites Eastern Europe/Russia | ||
27.190 MHz | |||
27.200 MHz | Zaykova, Russia | ||
27.205 MHz | Sweden | DTMF-activated playback | |
27.205 MHz | Russia (multiple sites) | ||
27.210 MHz | Zhukovsky (Moscow Oblast), Russia | ||
27.215 MHz | Almaty, Kazakhstan | ||
27.215 MHz | Russia (multiple sites) | ||
27.220 MHz | |||
27.225 MHz | Altai Region, South-Central Russia | ||
27.230 MHz | |||
27.235 MHz | |||
27.240 MHz | Moscow, Russia | 10 watt TX power, 5/8 wave vertical antenna | |
27.245 MHz | Almaty, Kazakhstan | 12 watt TX power, 1/2 wave vertical antenna | |
27.250 MHz | Belarus | ||
27.255 MHz | Kiev, Ukraine | 4 watt TX power | |
27.260 MHz | Krivoi Rog (Kryvyi Rih), Ukraine | ||
27.260 MHz | Moscow, Russia | 10 watt TX power, 5/8 wave vertical antenna | |
27.270 MHz | Saratov, Russia | ||
27.270 MHz | Kiev, Ukraine | ||
27.275 MHz | Kemerovo, Russia | Cross-band link to 434.500 MHz | |
27.275 MHz | Russia (several other sites) | ||
27.290 MHz | Minsk, Belarus | ||
27.295 MHz | Tyumen, Russia | ||
27.300 MHz | |||
27.305 MHz | Western Europe | ||
27.315 MHz | Russia (multiple sites) | ||
27.325 MHz | |||
27.330 MHz | Saratov, Russia | Located on Sokolova Mountain (wide coverage area) | |
27.335 MHz | Almaty, Kazakhstan | ||
27.355 MHz | St. Petersburg, Russia | ||
27.370 MHz | Western Russia | ||
27.375 MHz | Vladivostok, Russia | ||
27.390 MHz | Kaliningrad, Russia | 10 watt TX power, 5/8 wave vertical antenna | |
27.395 MHz | Netherlands | President Grant II RX/TX Radio | |
27.405 MHz | Germany | Input to 26.565 MHz | |
27.415 MHz | Yekaterinburg (Ekaterinburg), Russia | ||
27.425 MHz | Rostov, Russia | CTCSS 88.5Hz Cross-band link to 434.575 MHz CTCSS 77.0Hz | |
27.430 MHz | |||
27.450 MHz | |||
27.455 MHz | Yekaterinburg (Ekaterinburg), Russia | ||
27.470 MHz | |||
27.505 MHz | Moscow, Russia | ||
27.515 MHz | Obninsk (Kaluga Oblast), Russia | ||
27.580 MHz | Moscow, Russia | ||
27.605 MHz | Kazan, Russia | CTCSS 88.5Hz, Alinco DR-03T 10 watt transmitter with UHF link | |
27.605 MHz | Moscow, Russia | ||
27.620 MHz | Jamaica | Output (input 27.820 MHz CTCSS 88.5Hz) | |
27.625 MHz | Russia (multiple locations) | ||
27.630 MHz | Moscow, Russia | ||
27.635 MHz | Moscow, Russia | ||
27.635 MHz | St. Petersburg, Russia | ||
27.650 MHz | Western Europe | ||
27.665 MHz | Moscow, Russia | 5/8 wave vertical antenna | |
27.675 MHz | Russia | ||
27.765 MHz | Germany | ||
27.820 MHz | Jamaica | Input CTCSS 88.5Hz (output 27.620 MHz) | |
27.840 MHz | Poland | ||
27.875 MHz | Rostov, Russia |
US "A" or "RC" channels
These frequencies are used throughout the world, often in conjunction with locally authorized frequencies. In the United States, 27.255 MHz (CB Channel 23) is shared with telecommand/telemetry systems in addition to RC. Paging and local telemetry systems often use 27.255 MHz because FCC rules permit high power transmission on this frequency. Ref FCC Rules Part 95 95.207 and 95.210 47CFR95.207 and 47CFR95.210 Local paging systems, on-site telemetry, lightning detector systems, and wireless PA systems have been reported to use 27.255 MHz. During band openings, paging and other FSK signals can often be heard on 27.255MHz. Most of these signals have a bandwidth of 6-8 kHz. FCC rules allow a maximum bandwidth of 8 kHz for data signals on frequencies from 26.995 to 27.255 MHz.
For example, the Linear Systems Xtended Range data transmitter system uses FM-FSK on 27.255 MHz with 10 watts carrier power and 8 kHz bandwidth under Part 95. Radioshack used to sell an on-site paging system that transmitted FM POCSAG on 27.255 MHz with 7 watts carrier power. 27.255 MHz (channel 23) offers surprisingly long range at higher power levels with quality antenna systems. With a 27255 kHz transmitter doing 10-20 watts carrier power and a strategically placed transmitter, one could cover a substantial portion of an urbanized area. Testing with 10 watt carrier power FSK transmitters on 27.255 MHz using base station CB antennas showed ranges of 20+ miles with very little loss in signal strength and no data loss.
FCC rules permit a maximum of 4 watts transmitter power on 26.995 MHz, 27.045 MHz, 27.095 MHz, 27.145 MHz and 27.195 MHz and 25 watts maximum transmitter power on 27.255 MHz FCC rules provide for FSK and FM modes (for data transmission) as well on 27.255 MHz. Due to the higher power allowed on 27.255 MHz, it is often used for unlicensed on-site paging and telemetry systems. FCC rules permit remote monitoring, status alerts, and one-way transmissions on the six RC frequencies, allowing for considerably more flexibility in designing license-free datalink systems that offer impressive range.
CB Channel | RC Channel | RC Color Code | Frequency |
---|---|---|---|
Channel "3A" | Channel 1 | Brown | 26.995 MHz |
Channel "7A" | Channel 2 | Red | 27.045 MHz |
Channel "11A" | Channel 3 | Orange | 27.095 MHz |
Channel "15A" | Channel 4 | Yellow | 27.145 MHz |
Channel "19A" | Channel 5 | Green | 27.195 MHz |
Channel 23 | Channel 6 | Blue | 27.255 MHz |
UK RC Channels
Maximum power output 100mW
RC Color Code | Frequency |
---|---|
Black | 26.975 MHz |
Brown | 26.995 MHz |
Brown-Red | 27.025 MHz |
Red | 27.045 MHz |
Red-Orange | 27.075 MHz |
Orange | 27.095 MHz |
Orange-Yellow | 27.125 MHz |
Yellow | 27.145 MHz |
Yellow-Green | 27.175 MHz |
Green | 27.195 MHz |
Green-Blue | 27.225 MHz |
Blue | 27.245 MHz |
White (or Purple) | 27.275 MHz |
Australian 27 MHz RC and 29 MHz RC Channels
Australia RC Channel | Frequency |
---|---|
Channel 1 | 26.995 MHz |
Channel 2 | 27.045 MHz |
Channel 3 | 27.095 MHz |
Channel 4 | 27.145 MHz |
Channel 6 | 27.195 MHz |
Channel 10 | 29.725 MHz |
Channel 11 | 29.735 MHz |
Channel 12 | 29.745 MHz |
Channel 13 | 29.755 MHz |
Channel 14 | 29.765 MHz |
Channel 15 | 29.775 MHz |
Channel 16 | 29.785 MHz |
Channel 17 | 29.795 MHz |
Channel 18 | 29.805 MHz |
Channel 19 | 29.815 MHz |
Channel 20 | 29.825 MHz |
Channel 21 | 29.835 MHz |
Channel 22 | 29.845 MHz |
Channel 23 | 29.855 MHz |
Channel 24 | 29.865 MHz |
Channel 25 | 29.875 MHz |
Channel 26 | 29.885 MHz |
Channel 27 | 29.895 MHz |
Channel 28 | 29.905 MHz |
Channel 29 | 29.915 MHz |
Channel 30 | 29.925 MHz |
Channel 31 | 29.935 MHz |
Channel 32 | 29.945 MHz |
Channel 33 | 29.955 MHz |
Channel 34 | 29.965 MHz |
Channel 35 | 29.975 MHz |
Channel 36 | 29.985 MHz |
New Zealand 27 MHz RC and 29 MHz RC Channels
Similar to American and Australian RC frequency allocations. Different channel numbering system. 26.975-27.280 MHz and 29.725-29.985 MHz. 20 kHz channel steps 29.7-30 MHz instead of 10 kHz steps like the Australian system. 100mW maximum output power under New Zealand law.
NZ RC Channel | Frequency |
---|---|
Channel 197 | 26.975 MHz |
Channel 199 | 26.995 MHz |
Channel 102 | 27.020 MHz |
Channel 104 | 27.045 MHz |
Channel 107 | 27.070 MHz |
Channel 109 | 27.095 MHz |
Channel 112 | 27.120 MHz |
Channel 114 | 27.145 MHz |
Channel 117 | 27.170 MHz |
Channel 119 | 27.195 MHz |
Channel 122 | 27.220 MHz |
Channel 124 | 27.245 MHz |
Channel 128 | 27.280 MHz |
Channel 272 | 29.725 MHz |
Channel 274 | 29.745 MHz |
Channel 276 | 29.765 MHz |
Channel 278 | 29.785 MHz |
Channel 280 | 29.805 MHz |
Channel 282 | 29.825 MHz |
Channel 284 | 29.845 MHz |
Channel 286 | 29.865 MHz |
Channel 288 | 29.885 MHz |
Channel 290 | 29.905 MHz |
Channel 292 | 29.925 MHz |
Channel 294 | 29.945 MHz |
Channel 296 | 29.965 MHz |
Channel 298 | 29.985 MHz |
This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Some links may be affiliate links. We may get paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking one of these.