Uniden PRO520XL 40-Channel Mobile CB Radio
INCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGE
If any of these item are missing or damaged, immediately contact your place of purchase or Uniden Customer Service at: (800) 554-3988, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Friday.
CB Radio
Microphone
Mounting Bracket
Mounting Hardware
Other Printed Material
CONTROLS
- PA Switch – Select the Public Address mode when an external PA speaker is connected. When the PA mode is selected, the CB radio will be disabled. Adjust the PA output level by rotating the volume control.
- ANL Switch – You can select the Automatic Noise Limiter to help reduce harsh background noise caused by a variety of interference sources.
- PA Switch – Select the Public Address mode when an external PA speaker is connected. When the PA mode is selected, the CB radio will be disabled. Adjust the PA output level by rotating the volume control.
- TX LED – An LED lights to indicate when the radio is transmitting.
- S/RF Meter – This LED meter shows the relative strength of the received signal or the RF output.
- Channel Indicator – Displays the channel currently in use.
- Channel Selector – This switch selects the desired channel for transmission and reception. All channels, except channel 9, may be used for communications between stations operating under different license. Channel 9 has been
reserved by the FCC for emergency communications involving the immediate safety of individuals or the immediate protection of property. Channel 9 also may be used to render assistance to a motorist. This is a FCC rule and applies to all operators of CB radios. - RF Gain – This control is used to adjust the signal reception in areas where strong signals are present. Turn the control clockwise for maximum reception.
- Squelch – The squelch control is used to eliminate background noise during the absence of a transmission. Turn the control fully counterclockwise, then slowly rotate it back clockwise until the noise disappears. At this setting any transmission must be slightly stronger than the background noise to “Break Squelch” or to be heard. Further clockwise rotation will increase the threshold at which a signal will be
- Volume Control – Rotate clockwise to turn the radio on and to increase the volume.
- Microphone Jack– The operational mode of the CB is controlled by the push-to-talk switch on the microphone. Press the switch to activate the transmitter and disable the receiver. Release the switch to enable the receiver and disable the transmitter. When transmitting, hold the microphone about 2 inches from your mouth and speak clearly in a normal voice. The microphone included with the PRO 520XL is a detachable electret type.
Antenna Connector – This female connector permits connection of the transmission line cable male connector (PL-259)
to the transceiver
Public Address – An external 8-ohm 7-watt speaker must be connected to the “PA SP” jack located on the back of the unit. The speaker must be directed away from the mic to prevent feedback.
External Speaker – The external speaker jack is used for remote receiver monitoring. The external speaker should have an 8 ohm impedance and be rated at least 7 watts. When an external speaker is connected, the internal speaker is disabled.
FUNCTIONS
FRONT VIEW
BACK VIEW
INSTALLATION
Plan the location of the radio and microphone bracket before starting installation. Select a location that is convenient for operation and does not interfere with the driver or passenger in the vehicle. The radio should be securely fastened to a solid surface using the mounting bracket and self-tapping screws, which are provided.
Mobile Antenna
- Since the maximum allowable power output of the transceiver is limited by the FCC, the antenna is a very important factor affecting the transmission distance. It is for this reason that we strongly recommend that you install only a quality antenna in your new CB radio system. You have purchased a superior-quality transceiver. Don’t diminish its performance by installing an inferior antenna.
- Only a properly matched antenna system will allow maximum power transfer from the 50-ohm transmission line to the radiating element. We recommend that you use an SWR meter when installing your antenna. Set your PRO 520XL to
channel 20 and make your adjustments to the antenna until the meter reads as close to 1 as possible. Your Uniden dealer is qualified to assist you in the selection of the proper antenna to meet your application requirements. - For automobile installation, the whip antenna may be used with good effect. The most efficient and practical installation is a full quarter-wave whip antenna mounted on the rear deck or fender top, midway between the rear window and bumper.
- A short “loaded” whip antenna maybe more convenient to install on your automobile, although the efficiency is less than a full quarter wave whip antenna.
- For marine installation, consult your dealer for information regarding an adequate grounding system and prevention of electrolysis between fittings on the hull and water.
Connecting the Power Cord
Concerning the connection of the power cords, it may be possible or desirable to connect the red lead (for negative ground systems) or the black lead (for positive ground systems) to the ignition switch accessory terminal so that the radio is
automatically turned off when the ignition switch (key) is turned off. Alternately, the power lead may be connected to
an available terminal on the fuse block or even to a point in the wiring harness. Care must be taken, however, to guard against a short-circuit condition. When in doubt, please contact your vehicle dealer for specific information about your vehicle.
Ground Information
Most newer U.S. and foreign-made cars and small trucks use a negative ground system, while some older cars and some newer, larger trucks may use a positive ground system. A negative ground system is generally identified by the “-” battery terminal being connected to the vehicle motor block, but if you cannot determine the polarity of your vehicle, consult your vehicle dealer for information.
Negative Ground System
If you are operating on a negative ground system, connect the red DC power cord from the radio to the positive “+” battery terminal or other convenient point and connect the black power lead to the chassis or vehicle frame, or the “ -” terminal of the battery.
OPERATION
Operating Procedure to Receive
- Be sure that the power source, antenna and microphone are properly connected.
- Turn the unit on by rotating the volume control clockwise.
- Set the channel selector switch to the desired channel.
- Set the volume control to a comfortable listening level.
- Listen to the background noise from the speaker. Turn the squelch control clockwise until the noise disappears (no signal should be present). Leave the control at this setting. The squelch is now properly set. The receiver will remain quiet until a signal is actually received. Do not advance the control too far, or some weaker signals will not be heard.
Operating Procedure to Transmit
- Be sure the operator has read and understands Part 95, FCC rules and regulations, prior to operating the transmitter.
- Select the desired channel for transmission.
- If the channel is clear, depress the push-to-talk switch on the side of the microphone and speak in a normal voice
Preventative Maintenance
At six to twelve-month intervals, the following system checks should be made:
- Check the Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR).
- Inspect all electrical connections.
- Inspect antenna coaxial cable for wear.
- Inspect all screws and other mounting hardware.
TROUBLESHOOTING
If your PRO 520XL is not performing to your expectations, please try these simple steps. If you still cannot get satisfactory results after reading this manual and following the troubleshooting steps, please call the Uniden Customer Service Center at:
1-800-297-1023 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. If you determine that service is necessary, contact your local dealer or pack the unit in its original carton and send it along with a brief concise description of the problem, your name, address, phone number, and a copy of the original purchase receipt to the address listed in the warranty
Servicing Your CB
Technical information, diagrams and charts will be provided upon request. It is the user’s responsibility to see that this radio is operating at all times in accordance with the FCC Citizens Radio Service regulations. We highly recommend that you consult a qualified radiotelephone technician for service and alignment of this radio. When ordering parts, it is important to specify the correct model number of this radio. Please refer to the warning information on the first page of this manual.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Channels: 40 AM
- Frequency Range: 26.965 to 27.405 MHz
- Frequency Control: Phase Locked Loop (PLL) synthesizer
- Frequency Tolerance: ±0.005%
- Operating Temperature: -30ºC to +50ºC
- Microphone: Plug in type: dynamic
- Input Voltage: 13.8 V DC nom. (+ or – ground)
- Current Drain: TX: full mod., 1.7A
- RX: with max. audio output, 1.7A
- Size: 4-1/2” W x 6-3/4” D x 1-3/8” H
- Weight: 1 lb. 10 oz.
- Antenna Connector: UHF, SO-239
- LED Meter: Indicates relative RF output and received signal strength
TRANSMITTER
- Power Output: 4 Watts
- Modulation: Class B amplitude modulation
- Freq. Response: 300-2500 Hz
- Output Impedance: 50 ohms, unbalanced
RECEIVER
- Sensitivity: 0.5µV for 10 dB; (S + N) /N typical (limit: 1.0µV)
- Selectivity: 6 dB @ 7kHz, 70 dB @ 10kHz typical
- Image Rejection: 80 dB typical
- I.F. Frequency: Double Conversion Superheterodyne 1st 10.692 MHz 2nd 450 kHz
- RF Gain Control: Adjustable for optimum reception
- Automatic Gain Control: (AGC): less than 10dB change in audio output for inputs from 10 to 50,000 microvolts
- Squelch: Adjustable; threshold less than1µV
- Audio Output Power: 7 watts max. into 8 ohms
- Freq. Response: 300 to 2000 Hz
- Distortion: less than 10% at 4 watts, 1000Hz
- Internal Speaker: 16 ohms, 3 watts round
- External Speaker: (not supplied) 8 ohms
- PA System: 7 watts in an external 8-ohm speaker
FOR MORE MANUALS BY UNIDEN, VISIT MANUALSLIBRARYY
Uniden PRO520XL 40-Channel Mobile CB Radio-FAQs
What is a mobile CB radio?
A mobile CB (Citizens Band) radio is a short-range, two-way communication device that lets individuals talk to each other over 40 channels in the 26.965–27.405 MHz frequency range. It’s commonly used in vehicles, trucks, or as a home base station.
How do I tune my Uniden PRO520XL CB radio?
Use a Standing-Wave Ratio (SWR) meter to tune the antenna. Set the radio to channel 20, then adjust the antenna until the SWR is close to 1:1. Ensure the SWR is below 2:1 to avoid damaging the transmitter.
What is the typical range of this CB radio?
Under normal conditions, the PRO520XL can reach 2–20 miles. The range depends on terrain, antenna quality, and weather conditions.
Can I use the Uniden PRO520XL at home?
Yes. You can use it as a base station with a DC power supply and a suitable base station antenna.
Does the PRO520XL work with AM and FM signals?
Yes. It supports both AM and FM modes across the standard 40 CB channels, and some models allow Single Side Band (SSB) for longer-range communication.
Can I operate a CB radio without an antenna?
No. An antenna is essential. Without it, your radio cannot transmit or receive signals effectively.
Is the Uniden PRO520XL legal to use?
Yes. CB radios operate license-free in most countries, including the U.S., within FCC guidelines.
How do I lock my Uniden CB radio?
Some models feature a keypad or channel lock to prevent accidental changes. Refer to the user manual for the specific button combination for your PRO520XL.
How can I make my CB signal stronger?
Ensure the antenna is properly tuned, positioned high and clear of obstructions. Using a quality antenna and grounding properly can improve signal strength.