Antenna installation.
Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions carefully.
,Warning: Never operate your CB radio without attaching an antenna or with a broken antenna cable. This will result in damage to transmitter circuitry.
,Safety notice: The antenna used for this radio must be installed to provide a separation distance of at least 20cm (8 in.) from all persons and must not be co- located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
Tuning your antenna.
Some antennas are factory tuned. However, performance can usually be improved by slightly lengthening or shortening the antenna using a Standing Wave Radio (SWR) meter. For the exact procedures to be used, refer to the antenna manufacturer’s installation manual.
You can buy an SWR meter separately or have your antenna checked by your Midland CB Dealer’s service department.
Factors affecting CB range
Essentially, they are the same influences that optimize or limit AM and FM broadcast signals.
Terrain: Hills, valleys and buildings naturally interrupt and shorten CB signals. In short, anything that is between you and the person you want to talk to can shorten your CB range. You can expect to maintain maximum transmitting/receiving performance in flat, open country.
Weather: You can expect that CB range will be reduced – perhaps drastically – in times of atmospheric disturbance, such as in a thunderstorm or heavy snow. Sunspots too are known to adversely affect CB performance.
Noise:
A common source of excessive noise is the ignition system. In many vehicles today the electric fuel pump is another possible source of noise. If you suspect this is true, turn off the ignition. With the CB in receive mode the noise is no longer present this is a source of the noise. In some cases the noise can be reduced or eliminated by making sure the CB radio chassis is grounded. This is in addition to the power cord. In extreme cases, additional grounding of components may be necessary.
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