CB Radio Transceivers are devices that combine the capabilities of radio transmitters and receivers. Both are essential functions for truck drivers, and having them integrated into a single machine is an excellent way to reduce the cost of your truck communication setup. The Moonraker Minor II Plus 80 CH 12V/24V CB Mobile Transceiver is one of the high-tech variations to hit the market.
Below, we've uncovered all the valuable features of the Moonraker Minor II CB Mobile Transceiver. Read on to determine whether this is a suitable device for your setup.
What's in the Box?
The Moonraker Minor II Plus has everything you need to start using your new CB radio. The entire kit consists of a cigarette plug for the main radio fuse, command microphone, mounting bracket, microphone bracket, and thumbscrews.
Installing the Moonraker Minor II Plus to your truck is surprisingly simple. While you can go with the stock cigarette plug fuse, you also have the choice to purchase a lead fuse for an easier connection. The brackets from the kit allow you to set up the radio neatly in your cabin, making the device feel so much better.
Moonraker Minor II Plus 80 CH CB Mobile Transceiver Review: Initial Impressions
The first thing noticeable about the Moonraker Minor II is how compact it is. The entire box only weighs 800 grams, and the width is 115 mm. You can easily fit this CB radio anywhere in your cabin as a result. The sleek black design also pairs nicely with just about any colour.
Operational Specs
When choosing a CB radio, you want to make sure you get a device with a wide frequency range. The Minor II Plus has a range of 26.965 MHz to 27.405 MHz for the European mid-band. For the UK channels, you get a range of 27.60125 MHz to 27.99125 MHz.
The device comes configured to the EU band channels, giving you access to all AM and FM channels. You can easily switch to the UK FM channels.
Our tests demonstrated what you would expect from a Moonraker CB radio, sound reception was clear and precise, the transmission range was excellent, and the CB Radio was simple and easy to use. You cannot expect much more for a CB Radio in this price range and from a brand that you can trust.
On the downside the CB Radio doesn’t have the same functionality as some of the more expensive units but it’s performance isn't compromised. For the price this is a great CB radio and gives the user what they need in a simple and easy to use model.
Power Capacity
The total power capacity for this transceiver is 4W for both AM and FM. You can't fiddle with the power level settings like you can with other devices.
That said, the Minor II Plus doesn't drain that much energy while it's on standby. The audio output takes up the majority of the power (2.5W). You only drain 200 milliamps mA while receiving transmissions.
Automatic Squelch
Squelch is perhaps the most critical factor for radio communication. In short, squelch helps reduce background noise when transmitting signals to other drivers. Considering how loud your cabin can be while driving, having an automatic squelch feature is incredibly beneficial.
When speaking, all you need to do is press the button on the command mic, and the Minor II Plus will automatically modify the squelch and reduce the dreaded background noise. An automatic function allows drivers to focus on the road since they don't need to manually adjust the squelch every time they transmit messages to others.
What to Use the Moonraker Minor II Plus 80 CH CB Mobile Transceiver For?
The Minor II Plus Mobile Transceiver is an excellent device for two-way communication between drivers. Truck drivers spend a lot of time on the road, during which they have to coordinate deliveries, navigate different weather conditions, and check-in with other drivers. Having a reliable transceiver allows drivers to communicate information effectively.
Whether it's to warn drivers of dangerous road work, give weather information, or to have a casual conversation, a transceiver like the Minor II Plus CB can fulfil all communication needs. Having other drivers to talk to can also help keep truckers kill time during long-distance travel.
Moreover, it's an all-in-one kit that is easy to set up and doesn't take up too much space in the cabin. Although there have been significant upgrades to communication technologies, many truckers still enjoy using a CB mobile radio setup.
Furthermore, truckers aren't the only ones who could enjoy a transceiver like the Minor II Plus CB radio. CB radios, in general, are ubiquitous amongst many communities including 4x4 off-road, caravan, RV, hunters, hobbyists and more.
Conclusion
Given the features and functions of the Moonraker Minor II Plus kit, it's excellent value for money. Not only does it provide everything a driver needs to receive and transmit signals, but it's also effortless to install and fit in trucks of all sizes. The power capacity and signal quality are outstanding and are almost unmatched in other devices within this price range.