How to Connect a Linear Amplifier & Driver to a CB
Linear amplifiers are useful for boosting citizen's band radio above other radio noise. Connecting these amplifiers and integrated drivers to a CB radio is a quick process if you're already competent enough to install your CB. Using these amps is a way to boost signal strength with your existing antenna array, using common coaxial cables.
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Things You'll Need
- Linear amplifier
- (2) coaxial cables
- 10 gauge ground wire
- Wire snips
- Wire strippers
- Ground rod/access to cold water pipe
- Pipe clamp
- Screwdrivers (Philips, Allen, Torx)
Instructions
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1
Turn off and unplug the CB radio and any connected peripherals from the AC outlet.
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2
Rotate the coaxial connection fastening the existing antenna to the CB radio counter-clockwise. Set aside the antenna lead.
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3
Connect one of your coaxial cables from the CB radio's now-unoccupied coaxial connector to the matching connection on the linear amplifier.
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4
Screw the other coaxial cable to the terminals labeled "T/R" on both the CB radio and the amplifier.
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5
Snip a piece of 10 gauge power wire sufficient to reach from the linear amplifiers "GND" post to the cold water pipe or ground rod. Strip 1/2 inch of insulation from both ends of this wire using the wire strippers.
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6
Loosen the "GND" knob on the amp. Slide one end of the ground wire under the knob. Tighten it back down to secure.
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7
Slide the other end of the ground wire into the wire receptacle on the ground clamp. Tighten the screw on the receptacle until the wire is secured.
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8
Wrap the pipe clamp around the rod or pipe. Tighten the screw on one of the clamp arms to secure it to the pipe. Do not over-tighten, as this risks deforming and weakening the pipe.
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9
Make note of the linear amplifier's wattage, typically indicated on a label affixed to the underside of the amp. Dial in your CB radio's wattage adjustment knob to match this or come in just slightly below it.
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10
Plug the CB and linear amplifier into the AC outlets. Turn on both units and test.
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Tips & Warnings
Never ground anything to a gas pipe.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
