The squelch level determines the minimum signal strength that will unmute CB reception. When a CB signal exceeds the selected threshold, the radio will "break squelch". The current audio source (such as a radio station or media file) mutes and the CB channel is unmuted.
Adjusting squelch: See Figure 1. With the CB turned on, push down the squelch switch (SQ-) until noise and static are heard. The CB Active icon will be displayed. Then push up the squelch switch (SQ+) one or two levels. This eliminates noise while allowing any stronger signals to break squelch.
Intermittent noise: If intermittent noise or undesired weak CB signals continue to break squelch, consider raising the squelch further. However, setting the squelch too high can prevent desired CB audio from being received.
Maximum squelch: At maximum squelch, the radio will not break squelch for any signal. All inbound CB signals are effectively muted.
| 1 | Squelch level (can be raised or lowered) |
| 2 | Noise (CB audio remains muted) |
| 3 | Weak signals (CB audio remains muted) |
| 4 | Strong signals (breaks squelch, CB audio unmutes) |
Figure 1. Squelch (Conceptual Illustration)
Figure 2. CB Squelch Level