CB Radio, Past and Present

Citizens Band (CB) radios are short-range two-way units that have been widely used by hobbyists and truck drivers for communication, especially in the 1970s and '80s. This technology was invented in 1945 by Al Gross, an engineer from Canada who was raised in the U.S. state of Ohio.

In 1958, the Federal Communications Commission designated 23 channels for CB use. The next major change came almost two decades later. This was when the FCC expanded the number of channels to 40 because these radios had become very popular.

There were several reasons for CB's popularity. The first reason was the oil crisis that occurred in 1973 and caused shortages. As a result, the American government implemented a speed limit of 55 mph to save fuel. So, truck drivers learned how to use CB radios in order to communicate with each other about gas stations and speed traps set up by police.

Truckers even developed a special CB language to report roadside emergencies and warn of police officers. For example, "bear in the air" meant "police helicopter" and "meat wagon" was code for "ambulance." Another reason why CB became so popular was the pop culture of the time. For example, in the 1970s, movies like "Smokey and the Bandit" featured CB radios.

During the early days of CB, most radios were large and heavy. These relatively simple devices featured basic controls (channel, volume, squelch). Nonetheless, they were important communication devices that enabled many people to use radio waves for personal communication for the first time.

In 2021, the U.S. government began allowing manufacturers to add an optional FM mode to their CB radios. This mode's main advantage is that it improves audio quality and clarity. However, FM-mode communications usually can't be heard clearly on older AM-mode radios. The traditional AM mode is still best for transmitting longer distances. Both modes use the same frequencies.

Through the years, CB radios have transformed and improved in some ways. Thanks to advancements in technology, they've become more user-friendly, versatile and convenient. Modern radios are characterized by the combination of classic communication features and advanced technology. The majority of today's models offer the following...

Noise reduction: Modern devices can reduce noise and get rid of background interference. This improves the clarity of the audio.
Smaller size: Today, CB radios are not so bulky or heavy, especially compared to early models that contained vacuum tubes. Many are lightweight, compact devices that are easier to carry around.
Digital screens: Modern radios have lighted digital readouts that make it easier to use these devices and allow people to check the current mode or channel in the dark.

All of these features have helped CB radios become more practical for all types of users, including truckers, hobbyists, travelers and even emergency responders. You may wonder why CB is even relevant today, when people have mobile internet devices like smartphones. However, CB radios work more reliably during major emergencies, and they are easier to use than most high-tech devices.

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