CB Radio Base Stations of Yesterday & Today
Back in the late 70s and early 80s, CB radios ruled the AM airwaves while commercial stations switched to the FM band. You could hear transmissions between big rig drivers and Ham radio broadcasts if you had a transceiver of some sort. Out of all of these, the clearest transmissions came from base stations.
Base stations of yesterday and today
Every community near a major highway normally had a base operator or two. They would provide emergency information, directions, and recommendations for rest and meal stops along the way. In addition, they would be a source of local information should there be problems or events within the community.
Today, base stations are even more important. Even though wireless communication networks crisscross the United States, they aren’t a reliable source. Should a cellular network go down for any period of time, or a wireless access point (WAP) fail, then important communications cannot go through.
Except for a base station. As these still rely on the transmission and receipt of radio waves on the AM band, needed data can go out to other base stations or those tuned to a specific Citizens Band channel. In the end, they are the first line of defense.
Base station design
A CB base station can be the size, or slightly larger, of a vehicle-installed model. Furthermore, it features most of the same options. For example, frequency counters, four-pin, front-panel microphone jacks, microphone and RF gain, noise blankers, and SWR meters.
The main difference is power and transportability. Inside, base stations can plug into any AC power outlet running at 120 volts. However, they also have a switchable option to be powered by Direct Current (DC). This gives owners the capability to use the base station out in the field during emergency situations or while away in another location.
You can be a base operator with a basic station and antenna setup. Learn more about the various models and installations by speaking with a specialist at CB Radio Supply. They will guide you through the steps and suggest the right base station for your needs.