Contents
NOVICE

FCC License Preparation

Element 2

To go to an explanation press the Search button and select the required question designator.


N1A01
N1A01:

You should obtain a copy of Part 97 of Title 47 of the Code of Federal Regulations.  The PART97.HLP file in the NuTest package contains the entire text of this document.  [97]


N1A02
N1A02:

The FCC makes and enforces amateur radio rules in the United States and certain other territories.  [97]


N1A03
N1A03:

The FCC rules determine operation standards, technical standards of equipment and emergency communications.

The rules do not cover operating procedures or repeater locations.  Station construction standards may be covered by other regulations but are not part of the FCC rules.  The only exception to this is a general requirement for safe practices.  Although knowledge of Ohms law is required to answer some Novice Class Theory questions it is not part of the FCC rules.  [97]


N1A04
N1A04:

Specific station construction standards are not part of the FCC rules and regulations.  Your station is, however, required to be constructed so that it is safe for you and other people.  [97.101]


N1A05
N1A05:

Section 97.1 of the FCC rules explains the official reasons for the existence of this hobby.  [97.1]


N1A06
N1A06:

The Federal Communications Commission rules, Part 97.1 lists the fundamental purposes of the amateur radio service.

To increase the number of trained operators and electronics experts. is specifically mentioned in paragraph d).

To improve international goodwill, is mentioned in paragraph e).

[97.1]


N1A07
N1A07:

When you have passed:

a) The Novice written theory exam

b) The 5 words-per-minute Morse code test

You will be eligible to apply to the FCC for a ten-year license to operate an amateur radio station.  If you do not already have it the Windows Morse code trainer NuMorse is highly recommended for studying the Morse code.  [97.3]


N1A08
N1A08:

Paragraph 4), section 97.3 of the FCC rules defines the amateur service.  This paragraph specifies that we pursue our hobby out of interest, for fun, and not for commercial gain.  [97.3]


N1A09
N1A09:

In the FCC rules an amateur station is defined as A station in an amateur radio service consisting of the apparatus necessary for carrying on radio communications..  The apparatus means the radio equipment you need to carry out amateur communications.  [97.3]


N1A10
N1A10:

If you are the licensee then this is you, or another licensed radio amateur designated by you.  The control operator is responsible for ensuring that station operation is within the FCC rules.  [97.3]


N1A11
N1A11:

Volunteer examiners (VEs) administer all amateur radio written examinations.  [97.525]


N1B01
N1B01:

An amateur license permits you to transmit on amateur service frequencies only.  [97.5]


N1B02
N1B02:

Once licensed you may operate an amateur radio station in any region that is administered by the FCC without any special permissions.  Section 97.11

of the FCC document lists some extra rules for operation aboard aircraft and ships.  [97.5]


N1B03
N1B03:

The FCC Form 610 plus license fee are sent to the FCC.  Some portions of the form are to be filled in by you, other portions by the VE who administers your examination.  If you have a severe disability that makes it impossible for you to take a Morse code test then a section of the Form 610 is to be completed by a physician.  On receipt of the Form 610 and fee the FCC will issue your unique call sign.  [97.5]


N1B04
N1B04:

You may operate wherever the FCC has jurisdiction; these places are listed in the appendix to the FCC rules.  Special rules apply for amateur radio stations aboard ships or aircraft.  [97.11]


N1B05
N1B05:

There is no limit to the number of radios at your station.  [97.5]


N1B06
N1B06:

Keep the original of your license safe at your primary station.  Make copies for other sites that you operate from.97.5]


N1B07
N1B07:

European amateur radio operators are not allowed to control a US amateur station without an FCC-issued reciprocal permit.  [97.107]


N1B08
N1B08:

The types of license classes are listed in section 97.9 of the FCC rules.


N1B09
N1B09:

The Novice and Technician licenses are the entry level licenses.  The progression is then General, Advanced and Amateur Extra.  [97.9]


N1B10
N1B10: This question was withdrawn and should not appear in a VE administered test.  [97.9]


N1B11
N1B11:

The Technician Class license does not require a Morse code test.  [97.505]


N1C01
N1C01:

The 80-meter wavelength band is good at night for long range CW contacts.  Be sure to note that Novice and Technician class Hams have access to only part of the 80 meter band.  [97.301]


N1C02
N1C02:

The 40-meter band is good at night for long range CW contacts.  During the day CW contacts may be made up to 400 miles away.  Note Novice and Technician class Hams have access to only part of the 40 meter band.  [97.301]


N1C03
N1C03:

Contacts  can easily exceed 3,000 miles on CW using the 15 meter amateur band.  Note that Novice and Technician class Hams have access to only part of the 15 meter band.  [97.301]


N1C04
N1C04:

This band is good during the daytime.  Notice that the Novice and Technician class have access to only part of the 10 wavelength amateur band.  This band is divided into sections.  CW is used between 28.1 and 28.3 MHz while telephony is used between 28.3 and 28.5 MHz.  [97.301]


N1C05
N1C05:

This question has been withdrawn.


N1C06
N1C06:

At these frequencies propagation is normally line of sight.  Repeaters are used to extend the range of amateur transmissions.  [97.301]


N1C07
N1C07:

Amateur bands are often referred to in meters of wavelength, even though each band covers a range of wavelengths.  This is done for convenience.

If you are given a frequency then the wavelength is found by the equation:

 (Wavelength in meters) = 300 / f (MHz).

Where f (MHz) is the frequency in MHz.

If you are given a frequency in kHz then you must first convert it to MHz by dividing by 1000.

To convert a frequency to a wavelength we use the equation:

f (frequency in MHz) = 300 /  (Wavelength in meters).

In the question, the frequency is given as 3700 kHz.  This converts to 3.7 MHz.

So the wavelength is found by 300 / 3.7 = 81.08 and this is part of the 80 meter band.

[97.301]


N1C08
N1C08:

The frequency 7125 kHz is the same as 7.125 MHz.  Amateur bands are often referred to in meters of wavelength.  So, we need to convert 7.125 MHz to wavelength using the equation:

(Wavelength in meters) = 300/f(MHz)

Where f (MHz) is the frequency in MHz.

In this question we have (Wavelength in meters) =300 / 7.125 = 42.1 meters.  This is part of the 40 meter amateur band.

[97.301]


N1C09
N1C09:

Convert 21,150 kHz into MHz by dividing by 1000 to give 21.150 MHz.  Amateur bands are often referred to in meters of wavelength.  So, we need to convert 21.150 MHz to wavelength using the equation:

(Wavelength in meters) = 300/f(MHz)

Where f (MHz) is the frequency in MHz.

This gives  (Wavelength in meters) = 300 / 21.150 = 14.2 meters.  This is part of the 15 meter amateur band.

[97.301]


N1C10
N1C10:

Convert 28,150 kHz into MHz by dividing by 1000 to give 28.150 MHz.  Amateur bands are often referred to in meters of wavelength.  So, we need to convert 28.150 MHz to wavelength using the equation:

(Wavelength in meters) = 300/f(MHz)

Where f (MHz) is the frequency in MHz.

This gives  (Wavelength in meters) = 300 / 28.150 = 10.6 meters.  This is part of the 10 meter amateur band.

[97.301]


N1C11
N1C11:

Amateur bands are often referred to in meters of wavelength.  So, we need to convert 223 MHz to wavelength using the equation:

(Wavelength in meters) = 300/f(MHz)

Where f (MHz) is the frequency in MHz.

This gives  (Wavelength in meters) = 300 / 223 = 1.34 meters.  This is part of the 1.25 meter amateur band.

[97.301]


N1D01
N1D01:

The rules state that anyone who qualifies by examination is eligible to apply for a station license, except for representatives of foreign governments.  [97.5]


N1D02
N1D02:

No age limits are specified in the FCC rules.  Even young children can become operators if they can qualify.


N1D03
N1D03:

Element 1(A) is the name of the 5 wpm Morse code test.  Element 2 is name for the Novice written examination.  [97.501]


N1D04
N1D04:

When you fill out the FCC Form 610 to apply for your amateur operator primary station license, you will have to provide a mailing address.  The FCC cannot send your license to you if it does not have it.  It is difficult to change your mailing address later so use a permanent one.  [97.23]


N1D05
N1D05:

If you lose your license, write to the FCC for a replacement.  The address is: Federal Communications Commission, 1270 Fairfield Road, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania 17325.  [97.29]


N1D06
N1D06:

You will need to fill out an FCC Form 610 if you change your mailing address.  Send a COPY of your license to the FCC.  [97.23]


N1D07
N1D07:

US call signs have one or two letters, then a number, then up to three letters.


N1D08
N1D08:

The first characters of an amateur radio station call sign indicate the country where the station is licensed to operate.  The prefixes to US amateur stations are AA-AL, KA-KZ, NA-NZ, WA-WZ.


N1D09
N1D09:

The number in the call sign indicates the geographic area of the license.  Maps are available showing what numbers are allocated to geographic areas.


N1D10
N1D10:

Radio amateur licenses last for ten years before they will need to be renewed.  There is a two year grace period after license expiration where you can apply for a new one.  However, you are not allowed to operate if your license has expired.  If you go beyond the grace period, you have to start over and pass all of your examination elements again.  [97.21]


N1D11
N1D11:

You should fill out a form 610 or 610-R up to 90 days in advance for a license renewal.  The FCC does not send you a renewal reminder.  [97.21]


N1E01
N1E01:

CW means Morse code.  Other names for this type of emission are telegraphy and A1a.  On the 80 meter band you may operate telegraphy on 3675-3725 kHz when you gain your Novice class license.  [97.305]


N1E02
N1E02:

As a Novice you may use only Morse code on the 40 meter band (7100-7150 kHz).  [97.305]


N1E03
N1E03:

As a Novice you may only use Morse code on the 15 meter bend from 21, 100-21,200 kHz.  [97.305]


N1E04
N1E04:

Novices may only use Morse code on the 80 meter band.  [97.305]


N1E05
N1E05:

Novices may only use Morse code (CW) on the 40 meter amateur band.  [97.305]


N1E06
N1E06:

Novices are allowed to use Morse code (CW) only on the 15 meter Amateur band.  [97.305]


N1E07
N1E07:

Novices may transmit data from computers or RTTY (teleprinter messages) between 28.1 and 28.3 MHz.  This is in the 10 meter Amateur band.  [97.305]


N1E08
N1E08:

Novices are allowed to send and receive Morse code on the voice portion of 10 meters.  They are also allowed to use single sideband telephony on this band.  [97.305]


N1E09
N1E09:

Between 222.1 and 223.91 MHz you may use any permitted emission type.  [97.305]


N1E10
N1E10:

Between 1270 and 1295 MHz you may use any permitted emission type.  [97.305]


N1E11
N1E11:

The 10 meter band is from 28.3 to 28.5 MHz.  This band can offer long distance voice communications to Novices when propagation conditions are good.  [97.305]


N1E12
N1E12:

This question has been withdrawn by the FCC.  [97.305]


N1E13
N1E13:

Novices may transmit and receive radio teletype messages (RTTY) as well as Morse code between 28.1 and 28.3 MHz in the 10 meter amateur band.  [97.301]


N1E14
N1E14:

The frequencies from 28.1 to 28.3 MHz in the 10 meter Amateur band are used for data, packet radio  and teleprinter (RTTY) transmissions.  [97.3012]


N1F01
N1F01:

Always use the minimum of power needed to contact another station.  [97.313]


N1F02
N1F02:

All amateur radio operators must stay below 200 Watts PEP output on this band.  [97.313]


N1F03
N1F03:

All amateur radio operators must stay below 200 Watts PEP output on this sub-band.  [97.313]


N1F04
N1F04:

All amateur radio operators must stay below 200 Watts PEP output on this sub-band.  [97.313]


N1F05
N1F05:

Novice class Hams must stay below 200 Watts PEP output on the 10 meter amateur band.  [97.313]


N1F06
N1F06:

Novice class Hams must stay below 200 Watts PEP output on the 10 meter amateur band.  [97.313]


N1F07
N1F07:

On the 1.25 meter amateur band your power output is limited to 25 Watts.  [97.313]


N1F08
N1F08:

On the 1270 MHz microwave band your power output is limited to 5 Watts.  Be aware that high microwave power levels can cause heating and severe damage to human tissue.  [97.313]


N1F09
N1F09:

The Novice sub-bands on 80, 40, 15 and 10 meters are restricted to output power levels  of 200 Watts PEP.  Part of the reason for this is safety.  As a Novice you dont want to be handling higher power levels.  [97.313]


N1F10
N1F10:

Novice stations may transmit up to 25 Watts of output power on the 222-225 MHz band.  [97.313]


N1F11
N1F11:

Radio waves with a wavelength of only 23 cm are in the microwave range.  Radiation in the microwave range is similar to that used in microwave ovens.  The power limit is for the personal safety of Novice operators who may be relatively inexperienced.  [97.313]


N1G01
N1G01:

The control operator is whoever is designated by the licensee (including the licensee herself) to be responsible for station transmissions.  [97.3]


N1G02
N1G02:

The FCC rules state that when the control operator is a different person from the station licensee then both persons are equally responsible for proper station operation.  [97.103]


N1G03
N1G03:

The FCC rules state that when the control operator is a different person from the station licensee then both persons are equally responsible for proper station operation.  [97.103]


N1G04
N1G04:

Both you and anyone else who operates your station are responsible for compliance with FCC rules.  [97.103]


N1G05
N1G05:

As a designated control operator you may only operate within the privileges authorized for your license class.  This is regardless of the license class held by the station licensee.  [97.105]


N1G06
N1G06:

You do not HAVE to keep a record of who was using your station.  However, without any records, the FCC will assume that the licensee was the control operator.  [97.103]


N1G07
N1G07:

The designated control operator may operate only within the privileges authorized for his license class.  This is regardless of the license class held by the station licensee.  [97.105]


N1G08
N1G08 :

If you operate another Ham's station, you may operate only with the privileges allowed by your license.  This is regardless of the privileges of the station licensee.  [97.105]


N1G09
N1G09:

Every amateur station must have a properly licensed control operator while transmitting [97.7].  Special rules apply to beacon [97.203], repeater [97.205] and space [97.207] station operation.


N1G10
N1G10:

In the case of locally controlled operation (by the other operator) you must be at the control point  [97.109].  Usually this means being in the same room.  Special rules apply to beacon [97.203], repeater [97.205] and space [97.207] station operation.


N1G11
N1G11:

Any control operator for an amateur radio station, including family members, must be licensed.  [97.109]


N1H01
N1H01:

If licensed you may operate an amateur radio station anywhere in the US without notifying the FCC but special rules apply to operation aboard ships and aircraft.  [97.11]


N1H02
N1H02:

The FCC rules list the types of amateur stations with which amateur stations may communicate.  Briefly, these are:

Other amateur stations.

Emergency communications with other FCC regulated stations.

Transmissions with US government stations for RACES communications.

Communications with non-FCC regulated stations that are authorized to communicate with amateur stations.

Communications with US military stations during communications exercises.

Brief test transmissions.

Brief transmissions to establish communications.

Command transmissions to automatic devices.

Emergency communications.

Transmissions for the purpose of teaching the Morse code.

Information bulletins.

Telemetry.

[97.111]


N1H03
N1H03:

Due to rule changes this question was withdrawn by the FCC.


N1H04
N1H04:

Due to rule changes this question was withdrawn by the FCC.


N1H05
N1H05:

Due to rule changes this question was withdrawn by the FCC.


N1H06
N1H06 :

State your call sign regularly.  [97.119]


N1H07
N1H07:

You must always send your own call sign when operating from your  station.  [97.119]


N1H08
N1H08:

It is not good practice, but by FCC law you are allowed to operate for up to 10 minutes without identifying yourself.  You must identify after 10 minutes or at the end of communication.  [97.119]


N1H09
N1H09:

When you sign off, you must always finish with your call sign.  The other station must do this also.  [97.119]


N1H10
N1H10:

US amateur operators may handle third party communications with countries who have a third party agreement.  [97.115]


N1H11
N1H11:

Each amateur must give his authorized call sign at the end of each communication and at ten minute intervals during communication.  [97.119]


N1I01
N1I01:

The third party may also state the message, provided that this is done under continuous supervision by the control operator.  [97.115]


N1I02
N1I02:

A great thing about this hobby is the freedom to speak to radio amateurs anywhere in the world.  [97.111]


N1I03
N1I03:

Special rules apply to space station operation.  [97.207]


N1I04
N1I04:

Any amateur station may be a space station.  [97.207]


N1I05
N1I05:

If you are employed by an organization that transmits ham radio news bulletins and CW practice transmissions, you may accept compensation or wages.  [97.113]


N1I06
N1I06:

Public broadcasting is not permitted.  Dissemination of telegraphy practice sessions and information bulletins of specific interest to radio amateurs is permitted.  [97.113]


N1I07
N1I07:

No music is permitted on ham radio, not even background music.  No exceptions!  [97.113]


N1I08
N1I08:

Codes designed to obscure an amateur radio message are not permitted.  [97.113]  Data transmission using specified publicly available codes are allowed.  [97.309]


N1I09
N1I09:

When a third party is stating a message the control operator must always supervise them to make sure that they comply with the FCC rules.  Be aware that some countries do not permit third party amateur radio communications.  [97.115]


N1I10
N1I10:

It is the control operator's responsibility to make sure that there is a third part agreement in force at both stations.  [97.115]


N1I11
N1I11:

Lists of countries permitting third party traffic are available.  [97.115]


N1J01
N1J01:

The deliberate production of harmful interference is illegal.  [97.3]


N1J02
N1J02:

Transmitting on any frequency outside the permitted bands is illegal.  Transmitting on emergency service frequencies could block emergency communications and cause loss of life.  [97.3]


N1J03
N1J03:

Deliberate interference is illegal and could result in penalties such as permanent revocation of your amateur radio license.  [97.101]


N1J04
N1J04:

False and deceptive transmissions are specifically prohibited.  There should never be any reason to do this!  [97.113]


N1J05
N1J05:

The word MAYDAY is used to indicate an immediate and severe risk to life and if used indiscriminately could cause much waste of time by other amateurs and emergency services.  [97.113]


N1J06
N1J06:

You are required by law to identify your station.  This shall be done by transmitting your call sign every ten minutes and at the end of the transmission.  [97.119]


N1J07
N1J07:

If you do not identify your station by transmitting your call sign every ten minutes and at end of transmission then you are transmitting unidentified signals.  These are prohibited.  [97.119]


N1J08
N1J08:

In a genuine emergency it is permitted to transmit on any frequency.  In fact, all the FCC rules can be waived if the emergency is severe enough.  [97.405]


N1J09
N1J09:

This question has been withdrawn due to FCC rule changes. [97.119]


N1J10
N1J10:

The word MAYDAY is used to indicate an immediate and severe risk to life and if used indiscriminately could cause much waste of time by other amateurs and emergency services.  [97.113]


N1J11
N1J11:

In a genuine emergency it is permitted to transmit on any frequency.  In fact, all the FCC rules can be waived if the emergency is severe enough.  [97.405]


N2A01
N2A01:

This is polite and avoids possible infringement of FCC rules that call for cooperation in making use of available bandwidth.  [97.101]


N2A02
N2A02:

When you have established initial contact with a station that has a strong signal turn down your power.  The other station will hardly notice even drastic reductions and you will be less likely to cause interference to other stations.  The reliability of your transmitter may also benefit from running at reduced power.


N2A03
N2A03:

A dummy load is a resistive device designed to convert most of the RF power from your transmitter into heat.  It can be as simple as an electric light bulb, or it may be a sophisticated non-inductive oil cooled affair depending on transmitter frequency and power.

A dummy load temporarily replaces your antenna and allows you to carry out tests without radiating signals.  There is usually enough RF leakage from a dummy load and the connecting cables for you to clearly hear the output of your transmitter on a nearby receiver.


N2A04
N2A04:

Emergency calls have highest priority.  Take whatever steps are necessary to provide assistance and alert the emergency services.  Remember that the normal FCC rules can be waived in the case of a life threatening emergency.  [97.405]


N2A05
N2A05:

Be sure to send at a speed at which you can comfortably receive because any stations that respond will do so at the same speed.


N2A06
N2A06:

Always respond at the rate that the sending station is using.  You can agree to speed up when initial contact is established.


N2A07
N2A07:

Do not transmit Morse code faster than you can receive it else the responding station may reply at a rate you cannot copy.


N2A08
N2A08:

This is an exciting method to establish contact since you never know what station or stations will respond.


N2A09
N2A09:

Knowledge of the abbreviations (procedural signals) is important, especially when sending and receiving CW.


N2A10
N2A10:

K is an abbreviation for over or go ahead.'


N2A11
N2A11:

Sometimes you may hear a station calling CQ DX.'  This means calling any long distance station.'


N2A12
N2A12:

You may hear a phrase such as 73 es gd dx de KI5YT when listening to a CW transmission.  This is a series of abbreviations that expands to Best regards and hope you work many long distance stations, from station KI5YT.


N2A13
N2A13:

The RST system is in use by radio amateurs worldwide.

The first digit R indicates readability on a subjective scale of 0 to 5.

The second digit S indicates received signal strength on a scale of 0 to 9.

The third digit T represents CW tone quality and is often omitted with telephony signals.

A phrase such as you are RST 599 here old man means I can read you perfectly, your signal is very strong and your tone quality is perfect.


N2A14
N2A14:

The RST system is in use by radio amateurs worldwide.

The first digit R indicates readability on a subjective scale of 0 to 5.

The second digit S indicates received signal strength on a scale of 0 to 9.

The third digit T represents CW tone quality and is often omitted with telephony signals.

A phrase such as you are RST 599 here old man means I can read you perfectly, your signal is very strong and your tone quality is perfect.


N2A15
N2A15:

This is likely to be used by you when starting out on CW!


N2A16
N2A16:

The phrase QTH here is England simply means I live in England.'


N2A17
N2A17:

The exchanging of QSL cards with people from other countries is a fascinating branch of the hobby.  They come in many colorful designs.


N2A18
N2A18:

Sometimes you may hear a station calling CQ DX.'  This means calling any long distance station.'


N2A19
N2A19:

Many amateur radio contacts start off with a CQ call.  You may either go on air and call CQ or if you wish you can tune around the bands listening for other stations calling CQ.'  It is up to you.


N2A20
N2A20:

Radio reception may not always be perfect.  If someone uses the letter F in a call sign it may sound like a letter S.'  There are several other letter pairs that can be confused under less than perfect reception conditions.  The Standard International Phonetics alphabet is designed to solve this problem by providing a standard clearly recognized word for each letter of the alphabet.  Here is the alphabet:

A	Alfa	H	Hotel	O	Oscar	V	Victor
B	Bravo	I	India	P	Papa	W	Whiskey
C	Charlie	J	Juliet	Q	Quebec	X	X-Ray
D	Delta	K	Kilo	R	Romeo	Y	Yankee
E	Echo	L	Lima	S	Sierra	Z	Zulu
F	Foxtrot	M	Mike	T	Tango
G	Golf	N	November	U	Uniform


N2B01
N2B01:

Typewriter-like machines used to be used for RTTY but nowadays computers are usually used by radio amateurs to receive and send RTTY signals.


N2B02
N2B02:

When using Baudot TTY codes 45 baud is a RTTY data rate often seen on amateur bands.


N2B03
N2B03:

Your computer screen will indicate your station's connection status amongst other things.


N2B04
N2B04:

Listening to other people's traffic is a perfectly acceptable and legitimate practice on all amateur bands.


N2B05
N2B05:

Whole networks of digipeaters have been set up.  This means that packet radio is a communications medium that can rival telephone network based systems for some purposes.  Also, use of packet radio does not incur connection charges.


N2B06
N2B06:

The packet radio network now extends across the entire globe.


N2B07
N2B07:

In simplex operation both stations use the same frequency and take turns to transmit and receive.  Duplex operation involves two frequencies and both stations simultaneously transmit and receive.  Simplex operation is the more common method used in amateur radio.


N2B08
N2B08:

If you do not need the repeater, then changing to simplex mode and speaking directly to the other station allows others to use the repeater.


N2B09
N2B09:

Repeater operating protocol is different from other modes.


N2B10
N2B10:

A repeater receives signals on its input frequency and re-transmits them on its output frequency.  The difference between input and output frequencies is known as the offset.'  For your signals to appear on the repeater output frequency you need to transmit on its input frequency.


N2B11
N2B11:

A portable or mobile station may be low powered, with an inefficient antenna and be poorly sited.  These weak signals from portables and mobiles can be picked up by the sensitive well-sited repeater input.  These signals are then amplified and re-transmitted as high power signals, usually from a well-sited high gain antenna.


N2B12
N2B12:

The difference between repeater input and output is called an offset.'  Many amateur radio sets allow for this by automatically offsetting the receive and transmit frequencies.  You may have to select the correct offset and frequencies for the individual repeater you are trying to use.  Lists of repeater frequencies are published by organizations such as the ARRL.


N2B13
N2B13:

The calls are subject to all the usual FCC rules regarding content and procedures.


N2B14
N2B14:

Many amateurs like to rag chew and this is fine.  Unfortunately rag chewing over a repeater can block access for other users.  Time-out timers prevent occupation for long periods by individual stations.


N2B15
N2B15:

CTCSS stands for Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System that is used on the VHF bands.  This is a sub-audible tone that is mixed in with your transmission.  It switches on the audio output of receivers that may be monitoring.  It is useful to mute or squelch the audio output of receivers that are used for monitoring purposes to avoid the continuous hiss that would otherwise be heard.


N3A01
N3A01:

Signals on the VHF and UHF bands travel in straight lines, just like light.  Occasionally atmospheric conditions may extend the limit to somewhat beyond the horizon.


N3A02
N3A02:

Although the signals travel in straight lines, like light, they also reflect off buildings and tall objects.  Communication can occur even though the two stations cannot actually see each other.


N3A03
N3A03:

VHF and UHF radio signals usually travel in straight lines.  Some bending can occur under certain atmospheric conditions.


N3A04
N3A04:

VHF and UHF signals can easily reflect around the structure of a building and find their way out into the open.  If you are using a VHF or UHF set in a building you will find that just moving the antenna a few feet will drastically alter reception of stations outside the building.


N3A05
N3A05:

All stations on all frequencies emit ground waves that can travel up to about 100 miles.


N3A06
N3A06:

Ground waves have a much shorter range than sky waves reflected off the ionosphere.  Ground waves travel for a few hundred miles at most while sky waves can bounce between ground and ionosphere and travel many thousands of miles.


N3A07
N3A07:

This sky-wave propagation can allow communication right round the planet on some amateur bands.


N3A08
N3A08:

The ionosphere acts as a mirror to HF radio signals and reflects them back to the ground where they may bounce upward again.  This process can continue for thousands of miles.


N3A09
N3A09:

The ground wave will fade away after 100 miles or so.  However, sky wave signals may reach the ground some thousands of miles from the sending station.


N3A10
N3A10:

The layers of ionized gases high above the earth are called the ionosphere.  The ions, or charged particles, are generated by radiation from the sun.


N3A11
N3A11:

The ionosphere is made up of charged particles caused by solar radiation.  When solar activity increases, the ionization will be greater.


N3A12
N3A12:

The sun goes through its cycle of activity about once every 11 years.  At the solar peak reflections from the ionosphere will allow reliable communications around the entire world.  At a solar minimum worldwide communications may be more sporadic.


N4A01
N4A01:

You are responsible for any unauthorized use of your station and must take reasonable steps to avoid this.


N4A02
N4A02:

The microphone is a visible temptation to anyone looking in your car.  Put it out of sight.


N4A03
N4A03:

You are responsible for any unauthorized use of your station and must take reasonable steps to avoid this.  A key operated switch is one method.


N4A04
N4A04:

Your amateur radio antenna may well be the highest point in your locality.  A likely target for lightning strikes.  Grounding of the antenna cable will not prevent lightning strikes, but will minimize the damage that such strikes cause.


N4A05
N4A05:

Your amateur radio antenna may be the highest point in your locality.  A likely target for lightning strikes.  Grounding of the antenna cable will not prevent lightning strikes, but will minimize the damage that such strikes can cause.


N4A06
N4A06:

Make sure that your set is disconnected from the antenna and unplugged from the power line.


N4A07
N4A07:

The grounding should be done with thick braid.  Good grounding will provide other beneficial effects along with protection from shock. Grounding will give better immunity from interference and reduce spurious transmitted signals.


N4A08
N4A08:

Connect a common bus bar to a good earth ground such as a water pipe.  Then, run copper braid from the chassis of each piece of equipment to the common bar.  Make sure that the pipe provides a metallic path all way into the ground and that there are no plastic sections.  An alternative to a water pipe is a copper coated grounding rod.  If you choose this grounding method, make sure there is sufficient soil moisture in the area of the rod.


N4A09
N4A09:

Connecting the chassis of each item of equipment to a good ground connection will reduce the chance of electric shock.


N4A10
N4A10:

The steel provides physical strength while driving the rod into the ground.  The copper cladding provides the required high electrical conductivity.


N4A11
N4A11:

Eight feet is a minimum for the rod.


N4B01
N4B01:

Concentrated microwave radiation is harmful to human tissue.  The delicate tissues in the eyes are especially susceptable.  Keep your face away from the antenna and waveguide feeds.  Do not put your face near the open end of a waveguide when RF power is present.


N4B02
N4B02:

All antennas can be dangerous when you are transmitting.  Local heating effects as well as RF burns can cause serious injury.


N4B03
N4B03:

All high voltage equipment must be treated with respect.  High power UHF and microwave devices carry additional hazards since the RF energy can cause local heating within human tissue.


N4B04
N4B04:

Coaxial cable intended for use at lower frequencies such as VHF television antenna feeds can exhibit high losses at UHF.  For transmitters this results in wasted power and possible overheating of the cable.  On the receiving side the result will be a loss of weak signals.


N4B05
N4B05:

You dont want your head exposed to high levels of RF energy.  UHF radiation is considered to be especially harmful.


N4B06
N4B06:

Microwave oven radiation resembles radiation in the 1270 MHz amateur band.  Even though Novices are limited to 5 Watts this power can be concentrated into small areas and result in severe injury.  Do not look down waveguides if there is any chance that RF power can be present!


N4B07
N4B07:

Most high voltage equipment has automatic interlocks that disconnect the supply when the lid is removed.  The interlock may also place a short circuit across high voltage rails to make sure that electrical energy stored in filter capacitors is discharged.


N4B08
N4B08:

Make sure that the belt is fit for the purpose and carefully examined.  Utility companies using safety equipment such as safety belts have procedures to make sure that all equipment is examined regularly.


N4B09
N4B09:

Just think what a fall from 20 feet would be like, even if you didnt get hit by something on the way down.  Did that thought make you shudder?  Good, you will remember the advice to wear a properly checked safety belt.


N4B10
N4B10:

You will want to have your antenna as high as possible to get the best range.  This is especially important at frequencies of 28 Mhz and higher.


N4B11
N4B11:

This is the reason that construction workers and anyone else on construction sites wear hard hats.


N4C01
N4C01:

Standing wave ratio is a measure of power going away from the transmitter compared with power going back to the transmitter.  A ratio of 1:1 shows that no power is being reflected back to the transmitter by the antenna.  SWR meters have an upper frequency limit.  Those that work at 30 MHz and below are fairly inexpensive.  As the maximum working frequency of the meter increases, so does the cost.  A standing ratio of more than about 1:1.5 suggests that you have a problem with your antenna  or antenna feed.  A value less than this suggests that most of the transmitter power is being transferred to the antenna.  Of course, there are several other factors that will also determine the effectiveness of your antenna.


N4C02
N4C02 :

The relative impedance match is a measure of how effectively power is transferred.  We speak of a good impedance match when most power is transferred.


N4C03
N4C03:

This is the best place to measure standing wave ratio of your antenna since the effect of the antenna feeder is eliminated.  In practice, many amateurs take this measurement at the input to the feedline.  This is because the antenna may not be easily accessible.


N4C04
N4C04:

A 1:1 SWR is a perfect match; all the output power is being transferred to the antenna feeder.  It is possible that much of this power is being converted to heat in a lossy feeder or inefficient antenna.  A good SWR reading is only one of several requirements for an effective antenna.


N4C05
N4C05 :

This represents a reasonable impedance match.  Most of the transmitter power is being transferred; only a small fraction is being reflected back to the transmitter by the load.  A good SWR reading is only one of several requirements for an effective antenna.  An efficient dummy load should give a perfect match and yet will radiate very little of the RF power.


N4C06
N4C06:

A 4:1 reading is a sure sign that something is wrong.  Either the feeder, antenna or SWR meter is faulty.


N4C07
N4C07:

Once a transmission starts the SWR reading should be constant.  Erratic readings show that a bad connection exists somewhere in your antenna system.  You may notice that the changes occur more in windy weather or when you rotate your antenna.  This could indicate that nearby objects such as trees are affecting the performance of your antenna.  The remedy is to either remove the objects or relocate your antenna.


N4C08
N4C08:

Or the antenna is too close to other objects such as trees, buildings or power lines.  You should never contemplate erecting an antenna tower anywhere near power lines for safety reasons.


N4C09
N4C09:

Ideally the SWR should rise very slightly as each band edge is approached.  If the SWR rise is greater at the higher frequency end then it is too long.  Shorten it.


N4C10
N4C10:

Ideally the SWR should rise very slightly as each band edge is approached. If the SWR rise is greater at the lower frequency end then it is too short.  Lengthen it.


N4C11
N4C11:

For UHF measurements you must use a specially designed SWR meter.


N4D01
N4D01:

A high pass filter installed at the antenna input of a television may help to reduce interference (TVI) caused by a strong signal from a nearby amateur radio transmitter transmitting on HF.  It is up to the owner of the television set to fit the filter.  A high pass filter allows the VHF television signals to pass, but not your HF signals.


N4D02
N4D02:

Front-end overload is cause by the strong signal from a transmitter swamping the sensitive aerial input circuitry of the television.  Televisions are generally not designed to work in near powerful transmitters.  One way to reduce front end overload in nearby televisions is to site your antenna as far away from them as possible.  One way to reduce the problem when transmitting on HF is for the owner of the television to connect a high pass filter to the antenna input of his television set.


N4D03
N4D03:

Television Receiver overload may be reduced by keeping your transmitting antenna as far away from your neighbors television antennas as possible.  Another way to reduce the problem when transmitting on HF is for the owner of the television to connect a high pass filter to the antenna input of his television set.  You might offer to fit the filters for your neighbors.  Remember though, reduction of front-end overload is the responsibility of the television set owner.  Dont overlook the possibility of reducing your transmitter power.  This can sometimes drastically reduce the problem and the loss of transmitter range may be quite small.


N4D04
N4D04:

If the interference is frequency sensitive then is probably harmonic interference.  Harmonics are low level spurious emissions from your transmitter at multiples of your intended transmit frequency.  It is your responsibility to ensure that radiation of harmonics is kept to a minimum.  If you are transmitting on HF then you could try adding a low pass filter to the antenna feed of your transmitter.  Older style tube type transmitters can emit high levels of harmonics if they are not tuned properly.


N4D05
N4D05:

A high pass filter will allow the VHF television signals to pass through, but will stop the lower frequency HF signals from your transmitter.


N4D06
N4D06:

Low pass filters are designed only for HF transceivers used up to 30 MHz, the 10 meters amateur band.  If you try to use one with a VHF or UHF set then no RF energy will get to your antenna.  Furthermore, this may damage the filter or your transmitter.


N4D07
N4D07:

Harmonics will always be produced in the circuitry of your transmitter.  They are reduced to low levels before they appear at the antenna output, but can still affect users of other services.  An amateur transmission on 28 MHz will have low level harmonics at:

56 MHz, the second harmonic.  This is can be a problem because television sets receive at around this frequency.

84 MHz, the third harmonic can affect services using this band.

Further harmonics occur at 112 MHz, 140 MHz and so on.


N4D08
N4D08:

Modern transmitters will contain harmonic suppression.  You may further reduce the level of harmonic radiation by adding a low pass filter to your transmitter antenna feed.


N4D09
N4D09:

Modern transceivers do not require power amplifier tuning.  Older tube type transmitters require careful tuning to minimize harmonic radiation.  The problem is worse if you have a multiband antenna that is efficient at both its intended frequency and at a harmonic of this frequency.


N4D10
N4D10:

If you operate a transmitter with the metal cover removed there will spurious RF radiation from the exposed components.  There may also be a safety hazard due to high RF field strength and high voltages.


N4D11
N4D11:

It is always a good idea to check out interference problems on your own television set first.  This is likely to be the closest one to your transmitter.  Some amateurs have a television set in the shack that is dedicated to monitoring for interference problems.


N5A01
N5A01:

One megahertz (1 X 106) is equal to 1000 kHz.  To convert kHz to MHz move the decimal point three places to the left.  To convert MHz of frequency to meters of wavelength divide 300 by the frequency in MHz.


N5A02
N5A02:

Multiply by 1000 to convert MHz to kHz.  This is the same as moving the decimal point three places to the right.


N5A03
N5A03:

1 kilo hertz is the same as 1000 hertz.  Hz is short for hertz, which means cycles per second.'


N5A04
N5A04:

One hundred centimeters is 1  meter.  Divide a distance in centimeters by 100 to get the distance in meters.  A meter is just over 3 feet.


N5A05
N5A05:

Milli means a thousandth.  One milli-Ampere is one thousandth of an Ampere so you divide milliAmperes by 1000 to get Amperes.  (Amperes are usually called Amps.)


N5A06
N5A06:

Milli means a thousandth.  One milli-Volt is one thousandth of a Volt.  You divide millivolts by 1000 to get Volts.


N5A07
N5A07:

Micro means one millionth.  To get microfarads to farads you divide by 1,000,000.  An easy way to do this is to move the decimal point six places to the left.


N5A08
N5A08:

Micro means one millionth.

Pico means a millionth of a millionth.

To get from pico to micro we divide by 1,000,000.


N5A09
N5A09:

Kilo means one thousand.  1 kilo hertz is 1000 hertz.


N5A10
N5A10:

Kilo means one thousand.  1 kilo hertz is 1000 hertz.

Mega means one million.  1 mega hertz is 1,000,000 hertz.

So there are 1000 kilo hertz in 1 mega hertz.


N5A11
N5A11:

Milli means one thousandth.

There are 1000 milli Watts in 1 Watt.

To get from milli watts to Watts we divide by 1000.

So 500 Milliwatts is 500/1000 = 0.5 Watts.


N5B01
N5B01:

Think of the flow of electrons as the flow of water in a pipe.


N5B02
N5B02:

The flow of electrons in a conductor is called the current and it is measured in Amperes.  Amperes are often called Amps.


N5B03
N5B03:

Think of water flowing through a pipe.  There must be a pressure causing the flow.  The electrical pressure that causes electrical current flow is called voltage or electromotive force.


N5B04
N5B04:

The voltage that pushes the current round an electrical circuit is measured in Volts.


N5B05
N5B05:

Automobile batteries have 12 Volts between the terminals.


N5B06
N5B06:

The voltage coming from a wall outlet in the United States is 120 Volts.  Be careful when taking amateur equipment abroad.  As well as having different outlet fittings the outlet's voltage can be different.  For example in Britain a wall outlet will supply 240 Volts!


N5B07
N5B07:

A good conductor is one that easily allows an electrical current to flow through it.  We use good conductors for wire.  A good insulator will not easily allow an electrical current to flow though it.  We often surround wire with insulation to make sure the current stays in the wire and doesnt leak into surrounding objects.

Copper is a good electrical conductor, which is why most wire is made from copper.  Silver is even better and silver wire is occasionally used where very good conduction is required, for example in some UHF radio equipment.

Some relays use gold or silver contacts.

Aluminum is a good conductor, but it is difficult to make good connections to it because of a thin surface insulating layer that quickly forms when exposed to air.

Mica is a very good insulator.

Wood and paper are good insulators if they can be kept dry.


N5B08
N5B08:

Insulators will not easily allow electrical currents to flow.  All metals are electrical conductors.  Some metals are better conductors than others.  Copper is a good electrical conductor, which is the same as saying it is a very poor insulator.  Aluminum is a good electrical conductor.  Carbon is rather unusual; it is not a metal but most forms of carbon will conduct electricity.


N5B09
N5B09:

An insulator has a very high resistance and so electricity cannot flow easily through it.


N5B10
N5B10:

Imagine a thin pipe with water flowing through it.  The flow of the water will be hindered by friction with the walls.  A similar thing happens with the flow of electric current; all normal materials offer some resistance to flow.  Certain materials that offer high resistance are incorporated into electronic components called resistors.


N5B11
N5B11:

All normal materials offer resistance to the flow of electrical current.  The basic unit of electrical resistance is called the Ohm.

If one Volt of electrical pressure is applied to a circuit and one Ampere of current flows then the circuit has one Ohm of resistance.  This statement is the basis of Ohms law.


N5C01
N5C01:

The relationship between voltage current and resistance is called Ohms law.  You need to be familiar with this simple law:

E = I x R.

Where:

E is voltage measured in Volts.

I is current measured in Amperes.

R is resistance measured in Ohms.


N5C02
N5C02:

According to Ohms law:

E = I x R.

Where:

E is voltage measured in Volts.

I is current measured in Amperes.

R is resistance measured in Ohms.

In the question we have:

E = 2 Amperes x 50  Ohms = 100 Volts.


N5C03
N5C03:

The Ohms law equation relating voltage current and resistance is:

E = I x R.

Where:

E is voltage measured in Volts.

I is current measured in Amperes.

R is resistance measured in Ohms.

And so we have:

200 Volts = I Amperes x 100 Ohms.

To balance both sides of the equation I must be 2 Amperes.


N5C04
N5C04:

The Ohms law equation relating voltage current and resistance is:

E = I x R.

Where:

E is voltage measured in Volts.

I is current measured in Amperes.

R is resistance measured in Ohms.

And so we have:

90 Volts = 3 Amperes x R Ohms.

To balance both sides of the equation R must be 30 Ohms.


N5C05
N5C05:

Power is the rate at which energy is being transferred.  A high power transmitter is transferring a lot of energy to the antenna.


N5C06
N5C06:

A high power light bulb is transferring more electrical energy into heat and light than a low powered bulb.  Electrical power is measured in Watts.


N5C07
N5C07:

Power is the rate at which energy is being transferred.  It is measured in Watts.  If 1 Ampere of current is flowing and the electrical force is 1 Volt then the power is 1 Watt.  Here is how to calculate power:

P = V x I.

Where P is power in Watts.

V is voltage in Volts.

I is current in Amps.


N5C08
N5C08:

Imagine an open circuit as a gap that has opened up in the circuit and so no current can flow around it.  The circuit will not function.


N5C09
N5C09:

Imagine an electrical circuit that performs some function.  Now an extra piece of wire is added so that the current can take the easy or short path instead of performing its function.


N5C10
N5C10:

Batteries always generate direct current.  There will be a positive terminal and a negative terminal.


N5C11
N5C11:

Alternating current changes direction a specified number of times every second.  The power supply to homes in the US is alternating current that changes direction 60 times every second.


N5D01
N5D01:

Frequency is measured in hertz.  The frequency of an ac (alternating current) supply is the number of times per second that the direction changes.


N5D02
N5D02:

The unit of frequency is the Hertz.  A current that changes direction 60 times every second has a frequency of 60 hertz.


N5D03
N5D03:

This figure is for young people.  As we get older the upper limit reduces.  Exposure to loud machinery or heavy-metal rock music is believed to accelerate high frequency hearing loss.


N5D04
N5D04:

Audio frequencies are those that people can hear; they are audible!


N5D05
N5D05:

A way to remember this is that radio frequencies start where audio frequencies end, at 20 kHz.


N5D06
N5D06:

This is way above the 20 kHz point and so it is in the radio frequency range.


N5D07
N5D07:

The phrase 'Cycles per second' means the same as frequency in hertz, or Hz.  The question also tests that you understand that kilo means thousands.


N5D08
N5D08:

Imagine a wave traveling in water.  Count how many peaks pass you every second.  This is the frequency.  Now measure the distance between the peaks.  This is the wavelength.


N5D09
N5D09:

Imagine a wave traveling in water.  Count how many peaks pass you every second.  This is the frequency.  Now measure the distance between the peaks.  This is the wavelength.

If a lot of peaks go past every second then they are close together and the wavelength is small.


N5D10
N5D10:

Imagine a wave traveling in water.  Count how many peaks pass you every second.  This is the frequency.  Now measure the distance between the peaks.  This is the wavelength.

If only a few peaks go past every second then they are far apart; the wavelength is large.


N5D11
N5D11:

60 Hz means the same as 60 cycles per second.


N6A01
N6A01:

With switches the throw is the number of outputs, while the pole is the number of individual switching elements.

A single pole double throw switch switches one input (via the pole) to one of two outputs (the throws).


N6A02
N6A02:

With switches the throw is the number of outputs, while the pole is the number of individual switching elements.

It is double pole and so can handle two inputs.  It is single throw, so each input has a single output to which it is either connected or not.


N6A03
N6A03:

A battery has a positive and a negative terminal.  The other components do not need to be connected in any particular polarity.


N6A04
N6A04:

A potentiometer (pot) is a type of variable resistance often used in electronic equipment.  An example is the volume control found in radio and audio equipment.


N6A05
N6A05:

In schematic diagrams an arrow often indicates a component with a variable value.


N6A06
N6A06:

The jagged bends might remind you of a road that is difficult to negotiate.  The cars must travel more slowly.  A resistor presents electrical resistance and slows down the current.


N6A07
N6A07:

A fuse is a component that is designed to open the circuit if too much current flows.  Fuses are safety devices that prevent damage or fire elsewhere in an item of equipment.  Fuses are rated to blow at various currents.  Make sure that replacement fuses have the correct rating.  Many fuses are small tubular glass or ceramic devices with a metal cap at each end.  They look like the diagram.


N6A08
N6A08:

The dissimilar parallel lines represent the plates in a lead-acid cell that are dissimilar when charged.  You have to imagine the electrolyte that is between them!


N6A09
N6A09:

A single-pole, single-throw switch is a simple on/off switch.


N6A10
N6A10:

This switch is useful for routing an input to either of two outputs.  You may wish to route the RF from your transmitter to two different antenna systems depending on the band you are using.


N6A11
N6A11:

This sort of switch is often used to switch power to a shack.  It disconnects both conductors of the power feed when in the off position.


N6A12
N6A12:

This switch could be used to route a single power feed to two pieces of equipment at different times.


N6B01
N6B01:

A transistor can amplify small signals using a low voltage power supply.


N6B02
N6B02:

A transistor has an emitter, collector and base.  An NPN transistor has to have the emitter negative and the collector positive.  A PNP transistor has a positive emitter and negative collector.


N6B03
N6B03:

The same antenna can radiate energy from a transmitter and collect energy for a receiver.


N6B04
N6B04:

This symbol looks a bit like a plant pot containing earth.  The symbol represents a connection to the Earth.  One way to obtain this is by connection to a grounding rod hammered into the soil.


N6B05
N6B05:

A chassis ground is indicated by this symbol.  A chassis ground is a connection to the metal chassis of an item of electronic equipment.  (Which may, or may not, be connected to an earth ground.)


N6B06
N6B06:

Imagine three conductors pointing upwards, like an antenna.


N6B07
N6B07:

In symbols 2 and 3 the internal parts are not touching.  They have a vacuum between them and must be vacuum tubes.  The transistors are symbols 1 and 4.  Look at the arrows in the transistor symbols.  A pointing in arrow is a PNP transistor, so the correct answer for this question is symbol 4.


N6B08
N6B08:

In symbols 2 and 3 the internal parts are not touching.  They have a vacuum between them and must be vacuum tubes.  The transistors are symbols 1 and 4.  Look at the arrows in the transistor symbols.  A pointing in arrow is a PNP transistor, so the correct answer is symbol 1.


N6B09
N6B09:

In symbols 2 and 3 the internal parts are not touching.  They have a vacuum between them and must be vacuum tubes.  The triode has three elements on the inside (tri- meaning three of).


N6B10
N6B10:

The good old vacuum tube is still needed for high power RF amplifier circuits.  However, solid state RF amplifiers are gaining ground.


N6B11
N6B11:

Tubes require relatively high voltages for their operation.  Where a transistor will typically require a power supply of 9 Volts an equivalent vacuum tube might require 200 Volts.  High power tubes can require 2000 Volts or more!


N7A01
N7A01:

We use an antenna switch.  This could well be a single pole double throw switch incorporated into an electrically operated relay.  Antenna switches designed for HF use may give high losses at VHF and UHF.  Make sure your antenna switch is designed for the power and frequencies you will be using.


N7A02
N7A02:

An antenna tuner can be used as a matching device to maximize the amount of RF power transferred to the antenna.  You determine best match condition using a SWR meter.


N7A03
N7A03:

Coaxial cable carrying RF from your transmitter to your antenna is often referred to as feedline.


N7A04
N7A04:

An SWR meter can show if a fault is developing in your antenna systems by monitoring the SWR.  An unexplained increase would alert you to a bad connection developing in the system.


N7A05
N7A05:

The SWR meter can go between your transceiver and an antenna tuner or an antenna switch to monitor for faults developing in the antenna system.  It will also provide a check that the antenna tuner is doing a proper job of matching your transmitter and antenna system.


N7A06
N7A06:

A receiver will have sensitive components connected to the antenna input.  Any transmitter will be capable of delivering signals millions of times more powerful than the receiver is designed to handle.  Permanent damage will be the most likely result, even if the power is not switched on to the receiver.


N7A07
N7A07:

Your car will provide a 12 Volt DC supply.  Your home will have a 120 Volt ac supply.


N7A08
N7A08:

An antenna tuner is designed to allow a transmitter to transfer maximum power into an antenna that may not otherwise be a good match.


N7A09
N7A09:

This diagram shows a typical setup that allows the transmitter output to be temporarily diverted into a dummy load for test purposes.  Tests can then be carried out without the possibility of spurious signals being radiated.


N7A10
N7A10:

Block one is the transceiver connected to block two, which is an SWR meter.  Then, block three is the antenna switch.  The antenna switch is used to select the correct antenna or dummy load.


N7A11
N7A11:

Block three is an antenna tuner, used to match the transmitter to the antenna.  Of course, an SWR meter could be placed in this position, but this option was not presented.


N7A12
N7A12:

The 120 Volt AC supply in your home is unsuitable for powering mobile rigs or charging batteries.


N7A13
N7A13:

A transceiver designed to output several hundred Watts of power must get this power from the power supply.


N7B01
N7B01:

To send Morse code a telegraph key is required.


N7B02
N7B02:

The Morse code telegraph key plugs in to special socket on your transceiver.


N7B03
N7B03:

An electronic keyer gives perfect dits and dahs.


N7B04
N7B04:

The microphone plugs in a special socket on your transceiver.


N7B05
N7B05:

To transmit telephony you need a microphone.


N7B06
N7B06:

Computer systems are now more common than mechanical teleprinters.  Kits and suitable software are readily obtainable to allow easy connection of a computer to your transceiver.


N7B07
N7B07:

The purpose of the modem is to convert the signals from the format used by a computer into audio signals that can be accepted by your transceiver.  Kits and suitable software are readily obtainable to allow easy connection of a computer to your transceiver.


N7B08
N7B08:

In packet radio operation, messages are assembled into packets.  Each one has address information added.  The terminal node controller (TNC) is used to assemble and disassemble these packets of information.


N7B09
N7B09:

The terminal node controller functions as an interface between your computer and your transceiver.  If you have a PC there are plug-in TNCs available.


N7B10
N7B10:

To operate RTTY you need a transceiver and a radio-teleprinter or computer.


N7B11
N7B11:

The terminal node controller functions as an interface between your computer and your transceiver.  If you have a PC there are plug-in TNCs available.


N8A01
N8A01:

The RF signal is switched on and off by operating the telegraph key.  When the signal is on, it produces a plain continuous signal or continuous wave.  Hence, the alternative term for Morse code transmission is 'CW'.


N8A02
N8A02:

The frequency of the signal is shifted slightly as the letter codes are sent.


N8A03
N8A03:

CW stands for Continuous Wave.  In Morse code, each DIT and DAH consists of a plain continuous signal.  The signals are sent for a short period of time.


N8A04
N8A04:

RTTY stands for radioteletype.


N8A05
N8A05:

The digital data from a computer is packaged up into packets before being transmitted.


N8A06
N8A06:

Phone, or telephony, is another name for voice communications.


N8A07
N8A07:

All modern commercial transceivers have built-in key click filters.


N8A08
N8A08:

Chirp is a characteristic sound made by transmitters with poor power supplies.  It is heard as a change or wobble in frequency at the start of each dit or dah.


N8A09
N8A09:

Chirp is a characteristic sound made by transmitters with poor power supplies.  It is heard as a change or wobble in frequency at the start of each dit or dah.

To correct the power supply problem you:

a) Cure the fault if the power supply is of the correct rating for your transceiver.

b) Get a power supply that is capable of providing sufficient power for your transceiver

c) In the case of battery powered equipment, make sure that the batteries are charged.


N8A10
N8A10:

Old style power supplies used filter capacitors to clean up the DC power supply to a transmitter.  These capacitors contained a liquid that could gradually dry out over the years and they would lose their function.  The result was a harsh 60 hertz buzz superimposed on the transmitter signal.  Modern power supply circuits do not use these 60 hertz filter capacitors.


N8A11
N8A11:

By convention upper side band (USB) is used on 10 meters, 12 meters, 15 meters and 20 meters.  Lower sideband (LSB) is used on 40 meters, 80 meters and 160 meters.


N8B01
N8B01:

Harmonic frequencies are always multiples of the desired fundamental frequency.  They are spurious emissions and need to be kept at low levels in the output of a transmitter.


N8B02
N8B02:

Harmonic frequencies are always multiples of the desired transmitted signal frequency.  In this case 7160 kHz x 4 = 28,640 kHz.


N8B03
N8B03:

Since 7,125 kHz x 3 = 21,375 the two frequencies are harmonically related.  One is a multiple of the other.


N8B04
N8B04:

Your hand held may be faulty if it is radiating signals other than the intended one.


N8B05
N8B05:

If it is radiating signals other than the intended one they are spurious emissions.


N8B06
N8B06:

The cover and shielding are intended to prevent internal transmitter components from radiating spurious emissions.  They are also there to prevent exposure to hazardous voltages and high levels of RF radiation.


N8B07
N8B07:

Splatter has a characteristic sound.  A signal with splatter is taking up more band space than necessary as well as advertising the fact the station is being operated incorrectly.  Read your transceiver operating instructions to learn how to adjust your microphone gain setting so as not to cause splatter.


N8B08
N8B08:

A speech processor can be useful to enhance your speech signals.  If  too much speech processing is used the result will be a broadening of your signal called splatter.  Splatter has a characteristic sound.  A signal with splatter is taking up more band space than necessary as well as advertising the fact the station is being operated incorrectly.  Read your transceiver operating instructions to learn how to adjust your speech processor so as not to cause splatter.


N8B09
N8B09:

On commercial FM equipment there is usually no microphone gain control.


N8B10
N8B10:

Always speak in a normal voice with the microphone held about an inch away from the mouth.


N8B11
N8B11:

Deviation is the amount that your speech is affecting the RF signal of an FM transmission.  Talk farther from the microphone to reduce deviation.


N9A01
N9A01:

The thing to watch for here is that the length is required in feet, not meters.

Half wave dipole length (feet) = 468 / Frequency (MHz)

Halfwave dipole length (meters) = 150 / Frequency (MHz)


N9A02
N9A02:

A quarter wave antenna is half as long as a halfwave dipole.

Quarter wave antenna length (feet) = 234/frequency (MHz).

Quarter wave antenna length (meters) = 75/frequency (MHz).


N9A03
N9A03:

The formula for calculating the length of a half wave dipole is:

Half wave dipole length (feet) = 468 / Frequency (MHz).

The frequency given in the question is in kHz, so the first thing to do is to convert this to MHz as required by the formula.  We do this by dividing by 1000:

3725 kHz = 3.725 MHz.

We can now plug this value into the formula:

Half wave dipole length (feet) = 468 / 3.725 = 126 Feet (approximately).

A half wave dipole is easy to make.  Just suspend the required horizontal length of ordinary wire as high as you can get it with the ends insulated.  Connect your antenna feedline to the center of this antenna.


N9A04
N9A04:

The required length is in feet so we use the formula:

Half wave dipole length (feet) = 468 / Frequency (MHz).

Plug the frequency into the formula to give:

Half wave dipole length (feet) = 468 / 28.150 MHz = 17 Feet (approximately).


N9A05
N9A05:

A quarter wave antenna is half as long as a halfwave dipole.

Quarter wave antenna length (feet) = 234/frequency (MHz).

The frequency given in the question is in kHz, so the first thing to do is to convert this to MHz as required by the formula.  We do this by dividing by 1000:

7125 kHz / 1000 = 7.125 MHz.

Plug the frequency into the formula to give:

Quarter wave antenna length (feet) = 234/ 7.125MHz = 33 feet (approximately).


N9A06
N9A06:

A quarter wave antenna is half as long as a halfwave dipole.

Quarter wave antenna length (feet) = 234/frequency (MHz).

Plug the given frequency into the formula to give:

Quarter wave antenna length (feet) = 234/ 21.125 MHz = 11 feet (approximately).


N9A07
N9A07:

We use the formula:

Half wave dipole length (feet) = 468 / Frequency (MHz).

Plug the frequency into the formula to give:

Half wave dipole length (feet) = 468 / 223 MHz = 2.1 feet (approximately).

However, the question asks for the length in inches.  So we need to multiply the feet by 12:

2.1 x 12 = 25 approximately.


N9A08
N9A08:

Use the formula for a half wave dipole:

Half wave dipole length (feet) = 468 / Frequency (MHz)

Try putting in some different frequencies.  You will see that the bigger the frequency the smaller the length and vice versa.  The same thing happens with all the other antenna length equations.  Try it!


N9A09
N9A09:

Use the formula for a half wave dipole:

Half wave dipole length (feet) = 468 / Frequency (MHz).

Try putting in some different frequencies.  You will see that the bigger the frequency the smaller the length and vice versa.  The same thing happens with all the other antenna length equations.  Try it.  So if you remove the tip of an antenna to make it shorter its resonant frequency will increase.


N9A10
N9A10:

Use the formula for a half wave dipole:

Half wave dipole length (feet) = 468 / Frequency (MHz).

Lets try putting in some frequencies:

At 28.150 MHz the length is 468/28.150 MHz = 16.6 feet.

At 28.000 MHz the length is 468/28.000 MHz = 16.7 feet.

The longer antenna corresponds to the lower frequency.  To lower the resonant frequency of an antenna you have to add to its length.  This is the reason why VHF antennas are small compared to HF antennas, they work at much higher frequencies.


N9A11
N9A11:

Use the formula for a half wave dipole:

Half wave dipole length (feet) = 468 / Frequency (MHz).

Lets try putting in some frequencies:

At 28.150 MHz the length is 468/28.150 MHz = 16.6 feet.

At 28.300 MHz the length is 468/28.300 MHz = 16.5 feet.

The shorter antenna corresponds to the higher frequency.  To raise the resonant frequency of an antenna you have to shorten it.


N9B01
N9B01:

A Yagi antenna consists of a set of parallel dipoles with slightly varying lengths.  Many television aerials are Yagi type antennas.  One of the conductors, called the driven element, is fed by RF energy from a transmitter.  The design and theory of the Yagi antenna are complex.  However, these antennas can be bought ready made or built using readily available instructions.


N9B02
N9B02:

The Yagi antenna is a series of parallel dipoles.  The reflector is a little longer than the driven element the directors are shorter.  The design and theory of the Yagi antenna are complex.  However, these antennas can be bought ready made or built using readily available instructions.


N9B03
N9B03:

The driven element is fed with RF energy from the transmitter.


N9B04
N9B04:

The director is shorter than the driven element and is placed in front of it.  Most of the transmitted signal goes in the direction of the director.


N9B05
N9B05:

A reflector is longer than the driven element, most of the transmitted signal goes in a direction away from the reflector.


N9B06
N9B06:

Most of the radio energy goes in a direction from the reflector toward the director.  The reflector is the longest element, the director(s) the shortest.


N9B07
N9B07:

An antenna does not have to be a half or quarter wavelength long to be effective.  In this question the advantage of a 5/8 wavelength antenna is highlighted.


N9B08
N9B08:

With a quarter wave vertical antenna most of the radiation is horizontal.  Very little radiation goes straight up.


N9B09
N9B09:

If the dipole is erected in the east to west direction, the RF radiation goes mainly north and south.  Many radio amateurs have some means of rotating their antennas to make use of the directional effects.


N9B10
N9B10:

Although these sets may only radiate a few Watts this power could be hazardous if concentrated near the eyes or head.  Keep it away!


N9B11
N9B11:

You will want to get your antenna as high as possible for maximum effectiveness as well as safety.  Besides RF burns caused by electrical arcing, RF energy can damage tissue deep in the body if the power is sufficiently concentrated.


N9C01
N9C01:

Coaxial cable comes in many different grades.  Make sure that you use the correct grade.  For example VHF antenna cable for television use will not be adequate for UHF work.  The use of inadequate coaxial cable will result in loss of RF power before it can reach your antenna.  There will also be some loss of received signals.


N9C02
N9C02:

There is no RF radiation present on the outside of good quality coaxial cable.  You can run it close to building structures without affecting the performance.


N9C03
N9C03:

Make sure that the cable is sufficiently moisture proof and make sure that it cannot be cut or dug up!


N9C04
N9C04:

The outer shield of coaxial is at ground potential and so it is OK to run it close to metal or other objects.


N9C05
N9C05:

Parallel conductor line is a balanced feeder.  Your transmitter's output will be unbalanced which means that a special matching device must be used between the transmitter and a parallel conductor line.  Another disadvantage is that it must not be run too close to other objects.


N9C06
N9C06:

Parallel conductor line has very low loss because the medium separating the two conductors is mostly air that does not absorb RF energy.

Operating at a high SWR can heat up and damage coaxial cable; this is less likely with parallel conductor feed-line.


N9C07
N9C07:

Parallel conductor feedline cannot be used close to metal objects.  You will often see it strung on plastic rods held well away from roofs and guttering.

You will need an antenna tuner to match the impedance of 300 Ohm parallel conductor feedline to the 52 Ohm impedance output of your transmitter.


N9C08
N9C08:

It is not very popular nowadays, even though it has very low loss.  Coaxial cable is preferred because it can be run close to other objects and it is weatherproof.


N9C09
N9C09:

Many radio amateurs use an impedance matching device to match the antenna to the transceiver.


N9C10
N9C10:

Coaxial cable is unbalanced.  The two conductors (inner and shield) are not identical.  A dipole antenna is a balanced device, the two halves are identical.  A balun is often used to efficiently transfer RF energy from an unbalanced coaxial feedline to a balanced dipole.


N9C11
N9C11:

Coaxial cable is unbalanced; the two conductors (inner and shield) are not identical.  A dipole antenna is a balanced device, the two halves are identical.  A balun is often used to efficiently transfer RF energy from an unbalanced coaxial feedline to a balanced dipole.