Stray radio signals from CB radios can be a pain, as they interfere with a variety of devices including telephones, radios and televisions. Understanding what causes stray radio frequency (RF) interference is key to eliminate the problem. Stopping stray RF might be as simple as installing a filter or replacing the coaxial cable connecting the CB radio to the antenna.Coaxial Cable
The causes of stray RF due to a CB radio do vary. One common cause is an improperly shielded or deteriorating coaxial cable connecting the CB radio to the antenna. When the CB radio user transmits, some of the signal that should be transmitted by the antenna ends up radiating from the coaxial cable itself. This can then interfere with other electronics, as that RF energy is absorbed by the transistors and integrated circuits of these devices.
Power Wiring and Connections
The power lines supplying power to the CB radio also act as a transmitting antenna of sorts, which may increase the potential for radio-frequency interference (RFI). The connectors for certain types of electronics might also increase its susceptibility to RFI. For example, devices utilizing "unbalanced" cables that use RCA and BNC connectors are more likely to suffer from the effects of stray RF than "balanced" cables using XLR connectors. This is due to the differences in how the cables are grounded.
Cable Runs
An easy way to limit the possibility of interference due to stray RF is to keep cable runs from the CB radio to the antenna as short as possible. Experts say shorter runs reduce the risk of the cable becoming an antenna itself, radiating the radio signal from the cable and interfering with nearby electronics. Ensure that the cable itself is not frayed and that the coaxial connectors are in good condition and connected correctly to the ends of the cable.
RFI Filters
If the cables are in good condition but you still experience interference when the CB radio transmits, invest in an RFI filter. The filter is placed on the cords of the devices experiencing interference, and it absorbs the stray RF coming from the CB radio that is making its way into the device via these cords. The filter blocks a certain portion of the radio spectrum -- in this case, CB radio frequencies -- which are broadcast in several channels around 27MHz.
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