Let's face it, a UHF is pretty much essential accessory for any 4WD'er, particularly in Australia. But have you ever wondered what channels you should or shouldn't use?
Let's make it abundantly clear from the start - Channels 5 and 35 on the UHF CB Band are reserved for emergency use only.
As of 2007 in Australia, misuse of CB channels can land an individual up to 2 years imprisonment, $165,000 fine (on the spot fines from $220 can also be issued in minor cases) or worse fines for interference of an emergency call of 5 years imprisonment or up to $550,000 fine.
Needless to say, easily avoided given the large number of available channels and a little UHF etiquette.
Channel 5 & 35 - designated emergency channels. To use for an emergency call, switch on duplex and channel 5, if no response, try again with duplex off
Channel 11 - Call channel. Use to initiate a call and then switch to a different channel once call is established.
Channel 22 & 23 - telemetry and telecommand only. Packet data or voice not allowed
Channel 61,62 & 63 - reserved for future use. Transmission currently not allowed
Common Use Channels
Channels 1-8 and 41-48: Duplex channels (output).
Channels 31-38 and 71-78: Duplex channels (input).
Channels 5 and 35: Duplex channels strictly used for emergency communications.
Channels 9, 12-17, 19-21 24-28, 30, 39, 49-60, 64-70, 79 and 80: General chat channels, simplex use.
Channel 10: 4WD Clubs or Convoys and National Parks.
Channel 11: Call Channel used for locating friends – a general meeting point for when communications are lost or beginning, before moving to another channel.
Channel 18:Â Caravanners and Campers Convoy Channel.
Channel 40: Australia Wide road safety channel used primarily by truckies and oversized load pilot vehicles.
Channels 22 and 23 (25kHz):Â Telemetry & Telecommand used for automated data communications only.
Channel 29: Road safety channel Pacific Hwy, Pacific Mwy (NSW & QLD).
Channels 61-63: Reserved for future use.