RIC-18 — General Radio Service (GRS)

Radiocommunication Information Circulars (RICs) are issued for the guidance of those engaged in radiocommunications in Canada. The information contained in these circulars is subject to change without notice. Interested persons should therefore consult the nearest district office of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) for additional details. While every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate, no warranty is expressed or implied.

The main changes are listed below:

1. Alignment with RSS-236, issue 2, General Radio Service Equipment Operating in the Band 26.960 to 27.410 MHz (Citizens Band)
2. Added reference to the frequencies listed in RSS-236 that have been allocated to the GRS
3. Modified and updated subsections 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3
4. Reorganized section 6 (Going On the air). Subsections were created and related information was grouped
5. Created a subsection in section 6 to address the use of respectful language
6. Modified table 1 (Phonetic alphabet) and moved it from annex A to section 6.6
7. Reorganized annex B
8. Deleted annex C
9. Section 7 (Handling an emergency) has been updated to capture and incorporate information from Question/Answer #3 of annex C
10. Section 8 (Radio Interference) has been updated to capture and incorporate information from Question/Answer #9 of annex C
11. Editorial changes and clarifications were made, as appropriate

Comments and suggestions may be directed to the following address:

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
Spectrum Management Operations Branch
235 Queen Street (6th floor)
Ottawa, ON  K1A 0H5

Attention: Radio Licensing Policy

Email: spectrumoperations-operationsduspectre@ised-isde.gc.ca

All ISED publications related to spectrum management and telecommunications are available on the Spectrum Management and Telecommunications website.

This circular describes, in general terms, procedures, policies and general information concerning the General Radio Service (GRS).

Radio Standards Specification (RSS), RSS-236, General Radio Service Equipment Operating in the Band 26.960 to 27.410 MHz (Citizens Band), prescribes the technical requirements applicable to radio apparatus operating in the GRS.

The GRS, also known as the Citizen Band (CB), is a two-way, short-distance voice communications service for personal or business activities of the general public. Originally, there were 23 channels. In 1977, 40 channel allocations were established in the 26.960 to 27.410 MHz frequency band.

As outlined in the section 4.1 of RSS-236, GRS channel allocations have been established in the band 26.960 to 27.410 MHz listed in annex B (see table 3).

Prior to operating a GRS radio, it is important to learn its controls, accessories, other functions, and which options are desirable or useful for your intended operations.

The basic building blocks of any GRS radio station are:

• a transceiver, a combination transmitter and receiver, usually supplied with a microphone, power cord and mobile mounting bracket
• an antenna used for the transmission and reception of GRS radio frequency signals
• a feed line, to connect the transceiver to the antenna
• an electrical supply

4.1 Certification, licensing, and labeling

RSS-236 prescribes the minimum technical standards applicable to radio apparatus operating in the GRS. Radio apparatus covered under RSS-236 are considered Category I equipment, and require either a technical acceptance certificate (TAC) issued by the Certification and Engineering Bureau of ISED, or, a certificate issued by a recognized Certification Body pursuant to subsections 4(2) of the Radiocommunication Act and 21(1) of the Radiocommunication Regulations.

The GRS is exempt from licensing, provided that the equipment holds a valid technical acceptance certificate (TAC) under RSS-236.

The use of interstitial channels to GRS channels for remote control purposes must comply with the requirements set out in annex A of Radio Standards Specification, RSS-210, Licence-Exempt Radio Apparatus: Category I Equipment.

Equipment subject to RSS-236 shall comply with the applicable labelling requirements set out in RSS-Gen, General Requirements for Compliance of Radio Apparatus.

Certified equipment can be found on ISED's Radio equipment list (REL).

4.2 Modulation types

The amplitude modulation (AM), single sideband (SSB) and the frequency modulation (FM) describe three different methods of modulating an audio signal captured by a microphone onto the carrier signal produced by the transmitter.

4.3 Receiver sensitivity, selectivity and stability

The three important characteristics of a good radio receiver are referred to as the “Three Ss”: Sensitivity, Selectivity and Stability.

Sensitivity is the ability of the radio to receive very weak signals clearly. Selectivity is the ability to screen out signals from adjacent channels. A radio with good selectivity can reject a strong signal on an adjacent channel, allowing you to listen to a weak signal on the desired channel. Stability is the ability of the radio to stay on its operating frequency.

ISED recognizes the importance of considering the potential impact of antennas and their supporting structures on the local surroundings. As such, it has instituted procedures outlined in Client Procedures Circular CPC-2-0-03, Radiocommunication and Broadcasting Antenna Systems, as amended from time to time, for proponents of antenna systems to follow. Although licences are not required for GRS stations, operators must ensure that they comply with all antenna siting requirements outlined in CPC-2-0-03.

5.1 Feed lines

Coaxial cable should be used to connect the GRS radio to an antenna. The electrical characteristics of the cable should match those of both the transmitter output circuit and the GRS antenna. Type RG58/U is commonly used for mobile installations, and is best suited for permanent outdoor installations, as well as where a longer length of coaxial cable is required.

Special connectors should be attached to the coaxial cable at each end. It is important to follow instructions carefully in order to assemble connectors properly. Coaxial cable may also be purchased with ready-made connections.

Before going on the air, it is the duty of the operator of a radio station to know the rules described in the Radiocommunication Information Circular RIC-22, General Radio Operating Procedures.

6.1 GRS Licence or Certificate

Operators are not required to have an operator certificate or radio station licence to operate GRS equipment, including any GRS remote-control equipment operating in the band 26.99 to 27.255 MHz.

6.2 Identification

ISED does not require GRS operators to use an assigned call sign for identification.

6.3 Privacy of communications

Remember that anything said on a GRS radio can be easily overheard by others. GRS radio does not offer privacy.

6.4 Courtesy

Operators must share each channel with other users and must not wilfully interfere with conversations already under way. A good basic rule is “listen before you talk.” Courtesy dictates that necessary communications should be given preference. Courteous operators will yield to those who are passing messages, sharing information, and asking questions. Finally, operators should use respectful language with one another.

6.5 Restrictions

Operators must, at all times and on all channels, give priority to emergency communications.

ISED will not assign any channel for the private or exclusive use of any particular GRS station or group of stations. Some GRS clubs or individuals regularly monitor or use specific channels of their own choosing. No one has a right to declare that any such channel belongs to any group or individual, or to tell another user to vacate a channel on such grounds. Informal local arrangements, however, may be useful in providing a meeting place for those sharing common interests if made with the general consent of most users in the area, and if they are not abused. Certain channels are allocated for specific purposes, such as:

• Channel 9 (27.0650 MHz) is only for emergency communications, such as communications involving a real or imminent threat to the life or safety of any person, or the immediate protection of property
• Channel 11 (27.0850 MHz) is widely used as a calling channel
• Channel 13 (27.1150 MHz) and channel 23 (27.2550 MHz) are used for sea and land search and rescue operations. Federal, provincial, and municipal emergency communications have priority over all other communications on channel 13 (marine operations) and channel 23 (land operations)
• Channel 19 (27.1850 MHz) is used in many areas as a road information channel

GRS stations must not be used:

• in connection with any activity that contravenes federal laws, provincial laws, or municipal bylaws
• to interfere with the communications of another station
• to transmit music, whistling, sound effects or any material to amuse, entertain or attract attention
• to communicate with, or attempt to communicate with, a GRS beyond the normal coverage range of your station (for example, do not modify your GRS station for this purpose)

Section 31 of the Radiocommunication Regulations states that a person may operate or permit the operation of radio apparatus only where the apparatus is maintained within the tolerances set out in the applicable standards. For example, the use of a power amplifier capable of boosting the output power of a GRS transmitter is forbidden. These devices are also known as linear amplifiers, boots.

Any person who knowingly transmits, or causes any false or fraudulent distress signal, call or message to be transmitted, is guilty of an offence under the Radiocommunication Act.

6.6 Phonetic Alphabet

When radio conditions are particularly difficult, or if an individual word or name is especially important, spelling a message or word out using a phonetic alphabet (see table 1) is highly beneficial. The phonetic alphabet adopted by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is used to avoid confusion when transmitting difficult or unusual words. For example, to get across an uncommon spelling of the surname “Smyth,” say: “Surname Smyth. I spell: S-Sierra - M-Mike – Y-Yankee – T-Tango – H-Hotel.”

Additionally, many GRS operators use ten-codes (see annex A) to reduce airtime on congested channels. While this practice is not advisable for radio operators using other services, it is acceptable for the GRS.

6.7 Area of operation

Subject to applicable laws and regulations, operators may operate a GRS station anywhere in Canada and the United States.

Operators may not operate a GRS station on any aircraft or vessel without permission of the appropriate aircraft or vessel officer.

6.8 Power limits

As outlined in the section 4.6 of RSS-236, the radio frequency (RF) power output limits for a GRS transmitter shall not exceed:

• 12 watts peak envelope power for single sideband (SSB)
• 4 watts carrier power for other types of emissions

The power limits for remote control shall comply with the requirements set out in annex A of Radio Standards Specification, RSS-210, Licence-Exempt Radio Apparatus: Category I Equipment.

Channel 9 (27.0650 MHz) is reserved for communications involving emergencies that presents a threat to someone’s property, personal safety or life. This includes situations where something has happened or is about to happen. The reporting of road accidents, downed power lines, medical emergencies and fires are examples of situations for which Channel 9 should be used. This, however, does not preclude passing emergency messages on other channels.

Emergency messages must be given priority over all other kinds of communications.

When you receive messages from users on Channel 9 are not emergency related, you should not concern yourself. However, when you have to transmit emergency messages, you may politely remind others that Channel 9 is officially limited for emergency communications.

If your station causes interference, operators should resolve this through mutual agreement between the affected parties. If mutual agreement cannot be reached, and as a last resort, ISED may direct you to cease operations or restrict operating hours until the interference problem has been satisfactorily resolved.

In order to reduce interference, ISED recommends the following:

• Before erecting a GRS antenna, remember the importance of maintaining good relations with your neighbours. The fact that you have an antenna in your backyard will automatically make you suspect in the minds of some if they experience interference of any kind.
• Try to avoid interference complaints before they arise. Prior to transmitting, install your station carefully, keeping all connections well fitted. Use good grounding techniques for towers, antennas and GRS equipment. An example of a proper ground system consists of a copper rod buried at least 2.4 m into the ground, since frost penetrates in a little as 1.2 m. Furthermore, the ground wire should be made of copper tie wire of at least No. 12 gauge. Try to keep both your radio and antenna as far as possible from neighbouring TV or FM antennas and places where hi-fi stereos and similar equipment are being used.
• Conduct radio and TV reception checks in your own home. Operate your GRS set for brief test transmissions on a quiet channel while someone else checks TV sets in your house on all the channels. Repeat this procedure while transmitting on another GRS channel.
• Operators must not make, or allow someone else to make, any internal modification to a certified GRS transmitter. Any such modification voids the ISED certification of the radio apparatus.

The use of ten-codes aids in conveying of information in a shortened verbal form. The most common codes are listed in table 2 below: