Antennas and Bandwidth on CB Bands

When antennas are designed, they are all designed with a specific band at mind. Knowing the details of the bandwidths can bring a deeper understanding of how CB radio functions and in this article, we’ll cover just that. 

The term “bandwidth” is the frequency span from the lowest to the highest frequency in a service area. For the CB band, this starts at 26.965 MHz and is 440 KHz wide. For the 10 meter amateur band its bandwidth is 1.7 MHz, for the 2 meter amateur band 4 MHz, and the 70 cm band it is 30 MHz. When looking at antenna designs they ideally will have a sufficient bandwidth itself so when it is tuned and resonant at the center, it will have a favorable SWR of 2.0:1 or less.  

When designing antennas, the frequency and impedance are considered, with frequency meaning the transmitter’s design and impedance is based on the equipment's circuitry. When all is considered, on a suitable ground plane the SWR will likely be at 1:1 or very close, absorbing nearly all the energy coming from the transmitter.   

We hope you found this information helpful in understanding how antennas are designed and how the specification of bandwidths. At CB Radio Supply, we are here for all your radio needs and offer a wide range of customer service! Our free domestic US shipping and hassle-free returns is our guarantee you’ll be satisfied with your choices. Give us a call to speak with our expert staff today!