What is CB?

CB is the acronym for a term called citizens band, which is a type of radio communication that was once extremely popular, and continues to be popular with many people.

CB radio has a selection of 40 channels inside the 27-Mhz or 11m band. It uses a system of short distance radios that individuals can use to communicate with each other. It  normally does not require a license to operate, so it can be used by businesses and individuals alike. Stations must wait their turn to broadcast, because only one person at a time can talk, the rest can just listen in.

CB radio was started in 1945 in the U.S. for personal communications. CB radios had two classes, A and B. Class A radios were more complex to operate and had a wide range of communication. Class B radios were less complex and had a smaller range of communication.

In the 1970s, shortly after the oil crisis had happened, the U.S. government changed the speed limit to 55 mph and there was a great shortage in fuel. CB radios were sometimes used to find gas stations that had gasoline. They were also used to let drivers know if a speed traps was ahead. 

I guess you could say that the CB radio channels were kind of like  primitive internet chat rooms.....they let people get to know each other while still providing relatively anonymous communication.  

The CB radio has been present in many TV shows and movies, and is definately a part of the culture in the U.S. In older days, the CB radio was really the best two way radio that an individual could get.

Now, the CB radio and CB radio amplifiers are more of a hobby in the US, and are mostly associated with semi truck drivers. Truckers use the CB radio to communicate traffic problems and to give directions. You can buy a CB radio at about any electronics retail store, or on the internet.