Interference tips for CB users.

Problems.
Interference from radio transmitters is a common problem, it's not only CB radio that suffers. It is also possible for the CB to suffer from interference to the receiver, with unwanted noises, blocking of signals or even the receiver going quiet as if there are no signals.
There are many different causes of such interference, and it can be difficult to trace. Luckily, there are steps that you can take to reduce the chances of these problems occurring.

Tip. Interference to other equipment is the usual reason for a visit from enforcement agencies. Even if you are not to blame for interference, you would get busted for any illegal equipment found.

Antenna position.
Wherever possible, your antenna should be mounted as high as possible, above television and radio antenna. Also, it should be noted that TV antennas are directional - placing your CB antenna behind a TV antenna, rather than in front, may help to reduce the amount of signal getting to the TV.

Antenna condition:
Make sure that all your connections are fine. This includes plugs, sockets, and connections between any sections of your antenna. Any poor connections will not only reduce distance, but may also lead to interference.

Antenna tuning:
Poor tuning of the antenna can cause the coax to radiate signal, which will be lower to the ground and closer to other equipment. It is in your favour to make sure that as much of your signal as possible is sent out at the antenna.

Be helpful. If you do find that you are causing interference to a neighbour, please try to sort out the problem in a friendly manor. Even if it is not your equipment to blame, you could try explaining the problems or coming to some agreement over a filter for an affected TV.

Coax:
The use of old or cheap coax may cause more signal to be radiated by the coax, rather than the antenna. This signal may be picked up by your neighbours TV or radio, rather than other CBers. The position of your coax can also be important. It should not be placed next to TV or radio coax.

SWR meter:
The SWR meter can cause losses and produce harmonics. Only connect it when tuning or checking the antenna, it should not be connected at any other time.
In the UK, you are legally required to remove the SWR meter for normal use.

High Pass Filter (for TV):
If all else fails, interference to television may be cured by a filter in the TV coax. The best type of filter to use, is the Braid Breaker type. These cost more than the basic filter, but are more effective.
This filter should be plugged directly into the socket on the back of the TV, not further down the coax. If the person has a video, the filter should go into the back of that, and the lead to the TV should be short as possible.

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