CB radio frequencies operate within a specific band allocated for public use, enabling short-distance communication. The Citizen Band (CB) radio frequency range is 26.965 MHz to 27.405 MHz. This range is divided into 40 channels, with each channel spaced 10 kHz (0.010 MHz) apart.
Understanding CB Frequency Allocation
The allocation of frequencies for CB radio is standardized to ensure compatibility between different radios and users. The entire band is available for both AM and FM signals, although it has been traditionally used for AM and Single Side Band (SSB) modes.
The frequencies for each of the 40 channels are listed below:
CB Radio Channel Frequencies (26.965 MHz - 27.405 MHz)
| Channel | Frequency (MHz) | Channel | Frequency (MHz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 26.965 | 21 | 27.215 |
| 2 | 26.975 | 22 | 27.225 |
| 3 | 26.985 | 23 | 27.255 |
| 4 | 27.005 | 24 | 27.235 |
| 5 | 27.015 | 25 | 27.245 |
| 6 | 27.025 | 26 | 27.265 |
| 7 | 27.035 | 27 | 27.275 |
| 8 | 27.055 | 28 | 27.285 |
| 9 | 27.065 | 29 | 27.295 |
| 10 | 27.075 | 30 | 27.305 |
| 11 | 27.085 | 31 | 27.315 |
| 12 | 27.105 | 32 | 27.325 |
| 13 | 27.115 | 33 | 27.335 |
| 14 | 27.125 | 34 | 27.345 |
| 15 | 27.135 | 35 | 27.355 |
| 16 | 27.155 | 36 | 27.365 |
| 17 | 27.165 | 37 | 27.375 |
| 18 | 27.175 | 38 | 27.385 |
| 19 | 27.185 | 39 | 27.395 |
| 20 | 27.205 | 40 | 27.405 |
Note the slight frequency jumps between channels 3 & 4, 7 & 8, 11 & 12, 15 & 16, 19 & 20, 22 & 23. These are due to the historical allocation of specific frequencies (like 27.255 MHz for Channel 23) that break the strict 10 kHz step pattern across the entire band, though the step is still 10 kHz between adjacent channels.
Important Channels
While all 40 channels are available for general use, some channels have become conventionally used for specific purposes:
- Channel 9: Designated for emergency communications and assistance.
- Channel 19: Often used by truckers on highways for traffic information and general conversation.
- Channel 17: Sometimes used as an alternative highway channel, particularly in specific regions.
- Channel 6: Known for long-distance (DX) communication under favorable conditions, often using high power.
Understanding these frequencies allows CB users to tune into the appropriate channel for their needs, whether it's general chat, checking road conditions, or seeking help in an emergency.
