Will a CB Antenna Work with a VHF Radio?

A CB can do two things: capture the radio signal and transmit the radio frequency signals. There are multiple reasons why a CB antenna works best when used with a certain type of radio, and a VHF radio is not one of them.

Below, we are going to tell you why.

Will It Work?

Technically yes, a CB radio antenna will work with a VHF radio. But you should not buy one just because it will work. For a VHF radio, it is better to use a VHF antenna. There are multiple reasons as to why a CB antenna will not work for a VHF radio properly.

Reason 1: Mismatched Meter Bands

A CB antenna is tuned for an 11-meter band. For a VHF radio, on the other hand, it is a 2-meter band. Because of this, you will need to buy an antenna tuner. This will, however, not be a good decision as to the overall gain, or ‘dB’ will be not sufficient.

The difference resides in the actual antenna condition sitting inside the plastic housing. Antennas are made to capture and transmit certain frequencies only. This is why there are limitations when it comes to operating under different frequencies.

Reason 2: Not Optimal for Long Distance

If you need a long-distance transmission, buy a linear. Otherwise, the standard 3dB or 6dB antenna can cover up to a distance of 1-mile area only. You will need to set the standing wave ratio.

How to Make a CB Antenna Work with a VHF Radio?

As already mentioned, CB antennas are not made to work with VHF radios, due to the differences in their frequencies. But in certain cases, it could still work. However, there are strict conditions to fulfill.

For starters, the CB antenna needs to be an unloaded and full-sized whip. More importantly, the radio frequency of the VHF radio needs to be closer to the odd multiple of the CB antenna’s frequency.

Even if that is the case, keep in mind that the radiation pattern will certainly not be an ideal condition. It will work, but it will not work well. The CB antenna will receive the signals, but the pattern will suffer, given you can achieve the odd multiples of the specific frequency of the VHF radio.

Should You Transform Your CB Antenna to Make It Work with the VHF Radio?

Some experts will tell you how a CB antenna can work with a VHF radio, but it is better to not try those methods. You can use antenna tuners and matching devices to use on the radio.

But these tuners and devices will rob power from the transmission. This is hence, not recommended.

What to Use Instead

You can buy a VHF antenna to use with your VHF radio, and there will be no problems. Make sure to put it as high up as you can. Get the cable and connectors, the best your budget can get.

Cover up the connectors with a layer of Butyl rubber tape. Layer it further with several layers of electrical tape. This will stop the degradation in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here we have some of the most commonly asked queries regarding the topic:

Should I get a hand-held or a fixed-mount VHF device?

It depends on your needs completely. If you need convenience, get a hand-held VHF radio. The modern radios are extremely convenient to use, and they are more useful in an emergency, as there is no need for electricity to make the call.

But if you need a maximum range of area to cover with frequent use, you can get a fixed-mount device. If you have the budget, getting both types will give you an optimal advantage.

What is antenna tuning?

The tuning process is the process of changing the length of your antenna to make sure it works the best based on the unique factors of your location. Antennas use metallic ground planes to transmit the signals.

Why is antenna tuning so important?

Antenna tuning is not necessary to operate your radios, but it is better for two reasons: better performance and protection of the radio.

An untuned antenna can damage the radio. The untuned antenna can send the signal back to the radio with heat, which can damage the electrical components of the radio.

Use the Right Antenna for Your Radio

Just because something works does not mean it is the best option. Instead of making a CB antenna work and getting halfhearted results, invest in a proper VHF antenna to use with your VHF radio.