How to Test CB Radios

ByCarlos

If you resell CB radios or Car Radios, there is a way to test that the radio has power. See Below

  1. Use a 12V DC Power Supply (Best Option)

Buy a regulated 12V DC power supply (often labeled as “12V bench power supply” or “CB radio base station power supply”).
Look for one rated at at least 3–5 amps for typical mobile CB radios (some higher-powered models may need more).
Connect the radio’s red wire to the + (positive) terminal and the black wire to the – (negative/ground) terminal.

Example: A 12V 5A power supply for around $20–$30 will do the job.

  1. Use a 12V Battery

A 12V sealed lead-acid (SLA) or LiFePO4 battery (like those used in alarms or small solar setups) works.
Connect red to positive, black to negative.
Advantage: Portable.
Just be careful not to over-discharge the battery.

  1. Use a Computer Power Supply (DIY Option)

Old PC power supplies output +12V.
You can modify one to power a CB.
Requires a bit of wiring knowledge (jumping the green wire to ground to turn it on, then using the yellow wires for +12V and black for ground).

Important Tips

Always check polarity before connecting (red = +, black = –).
Don’t use random wall adapters unless you’re sure they are 12V regulated DC with enough current. Many are too weak or noisy.
If you want to transmit (not just power on), you’ll need an antenna connected, or you could damage the final output transistor.

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