What’s Your 20 Mean? CB Radio 10-Codes Explained

What Does "What's Your 20 Mean"?

“What’s your 20” means “what’s your location?” It’s shorthand for 10-20 — a code from the APCO radio system created in 1937 for police dispatchers. CB radio truckers adopted it in the 1970s. Today it’s used by truckers, security teams, and in everyday conversation to ask where someone is. You’ve probably heard it in a … Read more

MURS Radio Explained — Frequencies License and Best Uses

MURS Radio Explained — Frequencies, License, and Best Uses Quick Answer: What Is MURS Radio? MURS stands for Multi-Use Radio Service. It runs on 5 VHF frequencies between 151 and 154 MHz. No license required. Typical range is 1 to 2 miles in open terrain. Max power is 2 watts. Popular with farms, ranches, retail … Read more

Radio Etiquette — The Unwritten Rules Every Walkie Talkie User Should Know

Quick Answer: Radio etiquette means following a set of unwritten rules that keep communication clear, respectful, and efficient on shared channels. The key rules: wait for the channel to clear before transmitting, always identify yourself first, keep your messages short, say Over when you’re done speaking, never talk over others, and release the PTT button … Read more

CTCSS Privacy Codes Explained — What They Are and How They Work

CTCSS Privacy Codes Explained — What They Are and How They Work Quick Answer: What Are CTCSS Privacy Codes? CTCSS stands for Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System. It sends a sub-audible tone — below 300Hz, so you can’t hear it — alongside your voice transmission. Your radio only unmutes when it receives that exact matching … Read more

What Is VOX on a Walkie Talkie? Complete Hands-Free Guide

VOX stands for Voice Operated eXchange. It’s the hands-free mode on a walkie talkie — your voice triggers transmission automatically instead of pressing the PTT button. The moment you speak above a set volume threshold, the radio keys up and broadcasts. Most radios let you adjust VOX sensitivity on a scale of 1 to 9. … Read more

UHF vs VHF Radio — Which Is Better for Walkie Talkies?

Quick Answer: UHF (462-470 MHz) is better for indoor use and urban environments because shorter wavelengths penetrate walls and buildings more effectively. VHF (136-174 MHz) is better for open outdoor terrain and longer distances in flat land. Most consumer walkie talkies use UHF. FRS and GMRS radios operate on UHF at 462-467 MHz. You’re looking … Read more