Chances are you hear the words “CB Radio” and you think of the 1970s. Those were the peak of CB use for sure, and a lot of folks think the technology is dead, replaced by cell phones and other more modern communications methods. Before I explain how CB is still going strong, let’s take a second to understand what CB is.
Citizens’ Band Radio
Since 1945, the US government has recognized a group of frequencies that can be used for regular old folks to pretty much say and do as they please. While a license was technically required for some of the 20th century, the licensing rules were largely unenforced. This led to an increase in popularity among both businesses and private individuals looking to keep in contact with each other.
Depending on a number of factors such as the terrain and weather conditions, CB transmissions can reach between 2 and 20 miles in any direction. This makes it a great option for people who wanted to monitor traffic in the days before smartphones. It also ended up being a great way for people to warn others of speed traps. This led to the perception that CB was “power to the people” and a way to “stick it to the man.”
CB’s place today
Obviously the world’s a different place than it was in 1977. You have a smartphone with real-time traffic and the ability to reach anyone, practically anywhere. That doesn’t mean CB’s place is gone. Despite the presence of cell phones and FMRS radios, businesses still use CB. There’s no monthly fee to operate it. The equipment is cheap. It works anywhere that two devices are close enough. It doesn’t rely on cell towers or a network. CB Radio may not be the most advanced tech, but it’s deadly reliable.
Plenty of truck drivers and even regular folks still rely on CB. The CB culture has flourished among a group of people who just like simple solutions to simple problems. Are you one of them?
Finding a CB radio
Of course, in 2022, the internet makes it easy to shop for anything, even older technology. Truth is, there’s no better place to get a CB radio than Solid Signal. There aren’t many companies that make CB equipment anymore, but you’ll find all the best products when you look at our CB page. If you’re not sure what you need, call the experts! We’re well versed in the technology and can help you figure out what’s best for you. Give us a call at 888-233-7563 during East Coast business hours. You’ll reach a tech in our corporate offices near Detroit who will be ready to help!
