Calgary Jeep Association

4x4 Related Groups => Tech Talk => Topic started by: Eagle Jeeper on February 04, 2010, 09:41:07 PM

Title: CB setup and SWR readings
Post by: Eagle Jeeper on February 04, 2010, 09:41:07 PM

I have a mag mount whip style antenna and the CB temp. mounted in the truck with cig lighter adapter.  I hooked up the SWR meter and the readings are in the 8-9 range on both 1 and 40.  I think its the fault of the antenna.  My question is, is the mag mount self grounding and if so any ideas why readings are so high.

Title: Re: CB setup and SWR readings
Post by: FiEND on February 05, 2010, 01:47:41 PM

magmounts don't ground to the vehicle.  this is not to be confuses with 'ground plane' if that's what you are thinking.

make sure you aren't trying to do this in the garage, it has to be done out in the open.  but 8-9 is high no matter where you are.  will need a better antenna or coax or both.

Title: Re: CB setup and SWR readings
Post by: Zombie on February 05, 2010, 02:59:12 PM

*****warning, noob question******

what is a SWR meter and I would assume the readings would be something to do with reception?

Title: Re: CB setup and SWR readings
Post by: Eagle Jeeper on February 05, 2010, 04:08:33 PM

http://www.rightchannelradios.com/pages/cb-antenna-tuning-and-swr-explained-pv-c0-58.html

Check out this link it explains it pretty well.  The more I read about it the more I realize you shouldn't run your CB until you tune your antenna.  If the SWR reading is too high you will fry your CB :(

Title: Re: CB setup and SWR readings
Post by: OffRoadNewbie on February 05, 2010, 06:46:44 PM

does anyone have an SWR meter that is going on the open run tommorrow if so could you bring it as i need some tuning as well

Ill buy you a TIMMYS coffee   :P