2011 UHF CB Changes
New 80 channel class licence now in effect
UHF CB Radio as we know it is set to change, the Australian Communications & Media Authority (ACMA) announced proposed changes from January 1st 2011
Increasing the number of allocated channels from 40 to 80 is a great step forward for all UHF CB operators.
However all changes are not yet finalized and second round of comment has been called for by the ACMA
Some of the proposed changes include:
The frequency allocation extended upwards by 6.25 kHz to accommodate an additional 12.5 kHz channel
All simplex voice channels will transition to 12.5 kHz bandwidth
Repeater channels will transition to 12.5 kHz bandwidth, to create space for additional repeater channels to be added in stage two of the changes
Telemetry channels 22 & 23 remain unchanged
Licensing rules regarding repeaters will be relaxed
UHF CB operators will be able to apply for licenses for new repeater channels 41 to 43 & 46 to 48 once the class license is changed, However licenses for channels 44 & 45 will not be issued for an additional 6 to 12 months to allow owners of channel 5 emergency repeaters more time to upgrade equipment to meet the new standards, Once the ACMA confirms that most emergency repeaters have been converted 44 & 45 licenses will be issued.
These changes are the start of much needed changes to UHF CB Radio and we will keep you up to date with all the details at they come to hand
What do the changes mean for your radio?
Unfortunately most radios are not upgradeable to include the new channels, which means that to access them you will need to by a new unit
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my old UHF CB radio still work when the changes take place?
Yes, You existing UHF CB radio will still work after January 1st 2010
Will my old UHF CB radio interfere with other channels?
It is possible that old UHF CB will interfere with new channels but you would need to be very close to another radio to create a problem
Can I talk to someone on a new UHF CB radio with my old UHF CB radio?
Yes, You will be able to talk to another person using a new UHF CB radio provided they are on one of the current 40 channels, if the other UHF CB radio is on one of the newly allocated channels then you will not be able to talk to them
Will I notice any changes when talking on a new UHF CB radio with my old UHF CB radio?
Yes, You will notice that the sound will be distorted but you will be able to talk to each other
