CB radio, or Citizens Band Radio, offers a unique way to communicate with its own language of codes and phrases. This guide introduces you to what CB radio codes mean and how to use them effectively.
CB Radio: An Introduction
Citizens Band Radio is a short-distance radio communication system used by individuals and businesses. It’s known for its language of codes which are essential for efficient communication.
CB radios function similarly to walkie-talkies, enabling the user to send and receive messages within a specific range. The unique language used for this communication is made up of CB radio codes.
A Look into CB Radio Codes
CB radio codes are shorthand for more complex ideas or sentences, facilitating quicker, easier communication. Let’s explore some commonly used codes:
Decoding the 10 Codes
Ten-codes, or “10 codes,” form an integral part of the CB radio language. Here’s a rundown of frequently used ones:
- 10-1: Receiving poorly
- 10-2: Receiving well
- 10-3: Stop transmitting
- 10-4: Understood, or OK
- 10-5: Relay message
- 10-6: Busy, stand by
- 10-7: Out of service, going off the air
- 10-8: In service, available to transmit
- 10-9: Repeat message
- 10-10: Transmission completed, standing by
- 10-11: Transmitting too rapidly
- 10-12: Visitors present
- 10-13: Advise weather/road conditions
- 10-16: Make pick up at…
- 10-17: Urgent business
- 10-18: Anything for us?
- 10-19: Return to base
- 10-20: What’s your location?
- 10-21: Call by telephone
- 10-22: Report in person to…
- 10-23: Stand by
- 10-24: Completed last assignment
- 10-25: Can you contact…? If you want someone to reach out to another person, use this code.
- 10-26: Disregard last information
- 10-27: I am moving to channel…
- 10-28: Identify your station
- 10-29: Time is up for contact
- 10-30: Does not conform to FCC rules
- 10-32: I will give you a radio check
Beyond the 10s: Other Common Codes
Apart from ten-codes, CB radio talk includes many other phrases:
- “Bear”: Police or law enforcement
- “Copy”: Message received and understood
- “Break”: Interrupting to start talking on a busy channel
- “Good Buddy”: Term of friendship among users
Some amusing codes also exist. For instance, “taking pictures” refers to a police officer using a radar gun, not photography. The code “Smokey” for police officer was so popular it inspired a character name in the 1977 film “Smokey and the Bandit.”
Tips for Using CB Radio Codes
Like learning any new language, practice is key. Using the codes while conversing on your CB radio will help them become second nature. Listen to conversations on different channels to pick up new codes and understand their usage. And remember, everyone makes mistakes while learning, so keep trying!
CB radio codes are a fun part of CB radio culture that enhances communication speed and efficiency. So, switch on your CB radio and start practicing your codes. Happy chatting!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the 10-4 code mean in CB radio language?
“10-4” is a universally recognized code in CB radio communication. It’s a quick and simple way to acknowledge that a message was received and understood.
What is the CB radio code for police?
In CB radio lingo, the code for police or any law enforcement is “Bear.”
What does the CB radio code “10-20” stand for?
“10-20” is the CB radio code for asking someone’s location. It’s equivalent to asking, “Where are you?”
What does it mean when someone says “Copy” in CB radio conversation?
In CB radio language, “Copy” is used when a person has received and understood the message from another user.
What does “Break” signify in CB radio codes?
“Break” is a CB radio code used to indicate an interruption or a wish to start talking on a busy channel.