Technician License Course Chapter 7

Technician License Course Chapter 7
License Regulations and Privileges

Section 1 – License Rules
Licensing authority for Amateur Radio Federal Communications Commission FCC rules published in Part 97 of Title 47 – Code of Federal Regulations. Usually referred to as “Part 97” During this section of the class you will cover material that is less than stimulating but very important. Discuss the role of the FCC in management of the radio frequency spectrum in the United States and how ham radio fits into the big picture. Point out the official regulations that authorize and manage ham radio operations. Also point out that the students will hear a lot about Part 97 rules, and that this is just a short hand reference to the rules section that pertains specifically to ham radio. 2014 Technician License Course

2014 Technician License Course
Why Is There Ham Radio? (Part 97.1) Providing emergency communication capability. Advancement of the art and science of radio. Advance communication and technical skills of radio. Provide a trained reservoir of operators, technicians and electronics experts. Promote and enhance international goodwill. Discuss the mission of ham radio from your point of view. 2014 Technician License Course

Some Definitions Amateur Service – no pecuniary interest (private and personal, non commercial). Amateur Operator – the person holding authorization (license) to operate an Amateur Radio station. Amateur Station – equipment capable of transmitting on frequencies authorized for Amateur Service. Some of this material may seem to be self-evident but make sure that everyone understands the subtle differences between amateur radio and the other radio services. Particularly stress the non-commercial nature of ham radio. The lines here are becoming increasingly blurred with more professionals joining the amateur radio community as a way of providing emergency communications capabilities for their organizations. 2014 Technician License Course

The Amateur License No age limit or citizenship restrictions. One exception – foreign representatives License actually contains two parts. Operator license Station license (the call sign) Three levels of operator privileges: Technician, General, Amateur Extra. Discuss the equal opportunity aspects of ham radio, virtually anyone can obtain a license The license actually has two parts, the operator part allows the holder to operate an amateur radio station, the station part authorizes the physical station to be operated. Make the analogy to a driver’s license and the license plates on the vehicle. 2014 Technician License Course

Licensing Examinations
Volunteer Examiners (VEs) Volunteer Examiner Coordinators (VECs) Preparation Study the content Question Pool Taking the exam Proctored exam Multiple choice What the fee pays for Most of this material has already been covered at some point during the first few hours of the course, but this is a good place to tie it all together. Explain how examinations are managed and what VEs and VECs are. Perhaps any VE team members could be present during this time to introduce themselves. Show examples of the forms that need to be filled out and have examples of the NCVEC 605 and CSCE forms. Emphasize the purpose of the exam fee and what it is used for. Also emphasize that the actual ham license is free. 2014 Technician License Course

License Term and Renewal
The license is free and good for 10 years. Renewable within 90 days of the expiration date. Some personal identification information is required. Tax ID (Social Security Number). Current Mailing Address. Federal Registration Number (FRN). Security of personal information is important, but the government needs to know certain things about you before the license can be issued. Social security numbers are one area that makes people uncomfortable giving up. Explain that after the initial license is issued (and the SSN is required for that first issuance) that an FRN number will be assigned and the sensitive SSN will not be required for further interaction with the FCC. The student can wait for the FCC to issue an FRN when they process the first license application, or if the student desires, they and use the FCC Universal Licensing System web site to obtain their own FRN and then use that FRN on the 605 form. Assure the student that the VEC system is pretty secure and there is little risk of sensitive personal information getting into the wrong hands. This is a good time to reinforce that Amateur Radio is a public service, using public airwaves. You must identify yourself as a licensee in order to receive the privileges and protections due a licensed operator. That’s the trade-off. 2014 Technician License Course

Responsibilities of Licensure
Prevent unauthorized operation of your station. Provide personal information as required – keep a current mailing address on file. Make your station available for FCC inspection upon request. The ham radio operators responsibilities might seem intimidating to the new ham, but assure them that it is not a big deal. Give them examples how they can prevent unauthorized operation of their stations (remove the microphone when they are not physically present, etc.) Updating mailing addresses is probably the area where most do not comply, but making the change in the records is very painless and tell them how to do it. Finally, operating a ham radio is a privilege, not a right. Having your station be open to inspection is a requirement to the authorization. The FCC will not inspect your station without cause. 2014 Technician License Course

FCC ULS Web Site Register for on-line access to your license information. Make changes to your address and other information. Renew your license. Search for other station information. The FCC web site is fairly easy to use and it allows the ham to perform the required actions to maintain a current license themselves. The FRN is the key that unlocks those doors. If you have the capability, demonstrate accessing the ULS live during the class to illustrate how it can be used. As a suggestion, write your FRN on my station license so that you can easily find it when needed. 2014 Technician License Course

Practice Questions 2014 Technician License Course

Which of the following is a purpose of the Amateur Radio Service rules and regulations as defined by the FCC? A. Providing personal radio communications for as many citizens as possible B. Providing communications for international non-profit organizations C. Advancing skills in the technical and communication phases of the radio art D. All of these choices are correct FCC Rule: [97.1] T1A01 HRLM (7-2) 2014 Technician License Course

Which agency regulates and enforces the rules for the Amateur Radio Service in the United States? A. FEMA B. The ITU C. The FCC D. Homeland Security FCC Rule: [97.1] T1A02 HRLM (7-2) 2014 Technician License Course

For which license classes are new licenses currently available from the FCC?
A. Novice, Technician, General, Advanced B. Technician, Technician Plus, General, Advanced C. Novice, Technician Plus, General, Advanced D. Technician, General, Amateur Extra FCC Rule: [97.9(a), 97.17(a)] T1C01 HRLM (7 - 3)

How many operator/primary station license grants may be held by any one person?
A. One B. No more than two C. One for each band on which the person plans to operate D. One for each permanent station location from which the person plans to operate FCC Rule: [97.5(b)(1)] T1A04 HRLM (7 - 3)

Which of the following is a requirement for the issuance of a club station license grant?
A. The trustee must have an Amateur Extra class operator license grant B. The club must have at least four members C. The club must be registered with the American Radio Relay League D. All of these choices are correct FCC Rule: [97.5(b)(2)] T1F11 HRLM (7 - 3)

What is proof of possession of an FCC-issued operator/primary license grant?
A. A printed operator/primary station license issued by the FCC must be displayed at the transmitter site B. The control operator must have an operator/primary station license in his or her possession when in control of a transmitter C. The control operator's operator/primary station license must appear in the FCC ULS consolidated licensee database D. All of these choices are correct FCC Rule: [97.7] T1A05 HRLM (7 - 5)

What is the normal term for an FCC-issued primary station/operator amateur radio license grant? A. Five years B. Life C. Ten years D. Twenty years FCC Rule: [97.25] T1C08 HRLM (7-5) 2014 Technician License Course

What is the grace period following the expiration of an amateur license within which the license may be renewed? A. Two years B. Three years C. Five years D. Ten years FCC Rule: [97.21(b)] T1C09 HRLM (7-5) 2014 Technician License Course

How soon after passing the examination for your first amateur radio license may you operate a transmitter on an Amateur Radio Service frequency? A. Immediately B. 30 days after the test date C. As soon as your operator/station license grant appears in the FCC’s license database D. You must wait until you receive your license in the mail from the FCC FCC Rule: [97.5a] T1C10 HRLM (7-5) 2014 Technician License Course

If your license has expired and is still within the allowable grace period, may you continue to operate a transmitter on amateur service frequencies? A. No, transmitting is not allowed until the FCC database shows that the license has been renewed B. Yes, but only if you identify using the suffix GP C. Yes, but only during authorized nets D. Yes, for up to two years FCC Rule: [97.21(b)] T1C11 HRLM (7-5) 2014 Technician License Course

What may result when correspondence from the FCC is returned as undeliverable because the grantee failed to provide and maintain a correct mailing address with the FCC? A. Fine or imprisonment B. Revocation of the station license or suspension of the operator license C. Require the licensee to be re-examined D. A reduction of one rank in operator class FCC Rule: [97.23] T1C07 HRLM (7-8) 2014 Technician License Course

What type of identification is being used when identifying a station on the air as Race Headquarters? A. Tactical call B. An official call sign reserved for RACES drills C. SSID D. Broadcast station T1F01 HRLM (7-8) 2014 Technician License Course

Section 2 – Privileges What can you do with a Technician license? Power privileges Maximum of 1500 watts peak envelope power (PEP) Don’t use excessive power for the purpose Some special cases where power is restricted 200 watts on 80, 40, 15, 10 meters 50 watts on 219–220 MHz See § for other restrictions During this section of the class the students will learn about what frequencies they are allowed to use, along with authorized modes and power levels. 2014 Technician License Course

What Can You Do with a Technician Class License?
Frequency Privileges: Band versus frequency. Go over the frequency authorizations for the Technician license. Review the band plan and hand out a band plan chart and show the students how to read it and extract required information. Review with the students how the references to band a frequency are used sometimes interchangeably. Remember, bands are frequency ranges that have the same characteristics. The band identification is like a city name, the frequency is like a specific street address that you want to visit. “Let’s meet on 6 meters tonight.” “No, my 6 meter antenna is down right now, how about 2?” “Okay, 2 meters, how about ?” 2014 Technician License Course

What Can You Do with a Technician Class License?
Emission Privileges: Review with the students the different emission types. You probably have talked about this already with them. Point out that there may be restrictions, either by regulation or by gentlemen's agreement, on where certain emission types are used. This information is on the band plan chart. 2014 Technician License Course

Primary and Secondary Allocations
Some authorized amateur frequencies are shared. Primary Users Secondary Users – must avoid interfering with users of the primary service Primary users are protected from interference from other stations. Secondary users can use the frequencies if they don’t cause interference. If hams are secondary users of shared frequencies (which is the case most of the time), they must yield the use of the frequencies to the primary users if they are present. If you location is near the Canadian border, emphasize the restrictions with the “Line A” area on 70 cm. 2014 Technician License Course

Band Plans Voluntary arrangements that apply under normal band loading conditions Explain “normal loading conditions”. 2014 Technician License Course

Frequency Coordinators
Groups that help allocate repeater channels to minimize interference Elected by local or regional amateurs Repeaters approved by the coordinators are coordinated FCC considers frequency coordination “good amateur practice.” Identify the local frequency coordinator group. 2014 Technician License Course

Which frequency is within the 6 meter amateur band?
A MHz B MHz C MHz D MHz FCC Rule: [97.301(a)] T1B03 HRLM (7-9) 2014 Technician License Course

Which amateur band are you using when your station is transmitting on MHz? A. 2 meter band B. 20 meter band C. 14 meter band D. 6 meter band FCC Rule: [97.301(a)] T1B04 HRLM (7-9) 2014 Technician License Course

On which HF bands does a Technician class operator have phone privileges?
A. None B. 10 meter band only C. 80 meter, 40 meter, 15 meter and 10 meter bands D. 30 meter band only FCC Rule: [97.301(e), ] T1B06 HRLM (7 - 11)

Which of the following HF bands have frequencies available to the Technician class operator for RTTY and data transmissions? A. 10 meter, 12 meter, 17 meter, and 40 meter bands B. 10 meter, 15 meter, 40 meter, and 80 meter bands C. 30 meter band only D. 10 meter band only FCC Rule: [97.301(e), (c)] T1B10 HRLM (7 - 11)

Which of the following VHF/UHF frequency ranges are limited to CW only?
A MHz to 50.1 MHz and MHz to MHz B. 219 MHz to 220 MHz and MHz to MHz C MHz to MHZ D. All of these choices are correct FCC Rule: [97.305(a),(c)] T1B07 HRLM (7 - 12)

What is the FCC Part 97 definition of a "beacon"?
A. A government transmitter marking the amateur radio band edges B. A bulletin sent by the FCC to announce a national emergency C. An amateur station transmitting communications for the purposes of observing propagation or related experimental activities D. A continuous transmission of weather information authorized in the amateur bands by the National Weather Service FCC Rule: [97.3(a)(9)] T1A06 HRLM (7 - 12)

What is the limitation for emissions on the frequencies between 219 and 220 MHz?
A. Spread spectrum only B. Fixed digital message forwarding systems only C. Emergency traffic only D. Fast-scan television only FCC Rule: [97.305(c)] T1B05 HRLM (7 - 12)

Which of the following entities recommends transmit/receive channels and other parameters for auxiliary and repeater stations? A. Frequency Spectrum Manager appointed by the FCC B. Volunteer Frequency Coordinator recognized by local amateurs C. FCC Regional Field Office D. International Telecommunications Union FCC Rule: [97.3(a)(22)] T1A08 HRLM (7 - 13)

Who selects a Frequency Coordinator?
A. The FCC Office of Spectrum Management and Coordination Policy B. The local chapter of the Office of National Council of Independent Frequency Coordinators C. Amateur operators in a local or regional area whose stations are eligible to be repeater or auxiliary stations D. FCC Regional Field Office FCC Rule: [97.3(a)(22)] T1A09 HRLM (7 - 13)

Which of the following is a result of the fact that the Amateur Radio Service is secondary in all or portions of some amateur bands (such as portions of the 70 cm band)? A. U.S. amateurs may find non-amateur stations in those portions, and must avoid interfering with them B. U.S. amateurs must give foreign amateur stations priority in those portions C. International communications are not permitted in those portions D. Digital transmissions are not permitted in those portions FCC Rule: [97.303] T1B08 HRLM (7 - 13)

Section 3 – International Rules
International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Regions 1, 2 and 3 Continental US hams are in Region 2 Some Pacific possessions in Region 3 2014 Technician License Course

International Operating Authorization
Reciprocal operating authority International Amateur Radio Permit (IARP) CEPT licensing ARRL website on international operating 2014 Technician License Course

International Operating Authorization
Must comply with host country regulations May operate from US-flagged vessels Host country’s rules apply in territorial waters Contacts with other countries must be allowed by that country and by the US Very rare for contacts to be prohibited! 2014 Technician License Course

What is the International Telecommunications Union (ITU)?
A. An agency of the United States Department of Telecommunications Management B. A United Nations agency for information and communication technology issues C. An independent frequency coordination agency D. A department of the FCC T1B01 HRLM (7-14) 2014 Technician License Course

When are you allowed to operate your amateur station in a foreign country? A. When the foreign country authorizes it B. When there is a mutual agreement allowing third party communications C. When authorization permits amateur communications in a foreign language D. When you are communicating with non-licensed individuals in another country FCC Rule: [97.107] T1C04 HRLM (7-15) 2014 Technician License Course

From which of the following locations may an FCC-licensed amateur station transmit? A. From within any country that belongs to the International Telecommunication Union B. From within any country that is a member of the United Nations C. From anywhere within International Telecommunications Union (ITU) Regions 2 and 3 D. From any vessel or craft located in international waters and documented or registered in the United States FCC Rule: [97.5(a)(2)] T1C06 HRLM (7-15) 2014 Technician License Course

With which countries are FCC-licensed amateur radio stations prohibited from exchanging communications? A. Any country whose administration has notified the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) that it objects to such communications B. Any country whose administration has notified the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) that it objects to such communications C. Any country engaged in hostilities with another country D. Any country in violation of the War Powers Act of 1934 FCC Rule: [97.111(a)(1)] T1D01 HRLM (7 - 15)

What types of international communications is an FCC-licensed amateur radio station permitted to make? A. Communications incidental to the purposes of the Amateur Radio Service and remarks of a personal character B. Communications incidental to conducting business or remarks of a personal nature C. Only communications incidental to contest exchanges, all other communications are prohibited D. Any communications that would be permitted by an international broadcast station FCC Rule: [97.117] T1C03 HRLM (7 - 15)

Technician License Course Chapters 7 and 8
Call Signs, Control Operators, Station Identification and Third-Party Communications

Call Signs – Your “Radio Name”
All amateur call signs have a prefix and a suffix Prefix – indicates country of license Suffix – indicates a specific licensee Prefix – generally two or three letters and numbers assigned by the ITU Suffix – one or more letters Explain how the ITU assigns blocks of prefixes to each individual country – give examples. Show amateur call signs and contrast to commercial, broadcast, and Citizens Band call signs. 2014 Technician License Course

Call Signs US call signs begin with: K, N, W, and AA–AL Ten US call sign districts indicated by 0–9 in prefix Pacific and Caribbean possessions have special prefixes Pass out a U.S. map with the call sign districts. Explain that the number in a call sign indicates the district of the licensee’s address when the call was assigned. Note that hams can move to a new location or request vanity calls that have different numbers than their original district. 2014 Technician License Course

Call Signs U.S. call sign types for amateurs 1x1 (W1W); 1x2 (W1WW); 2x1 (WW1W); 2x2 (WW1WW); 1x3 (W1WWW); or 2x3 (WW1WWW) Assigned by license class 1x1 (“one by one”) is for special events Refer to the FCC sequential call sign system for a description of call sign groups Discuss the structure of U.S. call signs and what the students can expect for their first call signs. Have on hand some QSL cards from the U.S. and from other countries. Use them to illustrate different U.S. call sign groups and how they differ from those of other countries. Call sign groups are not defined in the Part 97 rules, only that a "sequential call sign system" will be used. The details of each call sign group can be found at Currently, all of the 1x3 (Group C) call signs have been assigned sequentially (i.e. - in order) and Technician licensees are being assigned 2x3 (Group D) call signs in regions Many Group C call signs were first assigned long ago. Now that their original assignees are no longer using them, they are available to Technicians through the Vanity Call program. 2014 Technician License Course

Call Signs Indicators – added to the call sign following a slash (/) or a word such as “portable” Portable – operating away from primary station location Mobile, aeronautical mobile, maritime mobile Upgrade indicators “AG” or “AE” or “KT” Discuss self-assigned indicators and what they mean. Give examples such as /KL7 or /KH6 that are especially useful to hams. It’s not required but they can also use /# to indicate operation from a different location than the home station. Note that maritime mobile requires operation outside the territorial waters of the U.S. – not just operating from a vessel. Point out that after upgrading, they can add the AG or AE and immediately use the new authorized privileges before the upgrade is posted in the FCC database. 2014 Technician License Course

Choosing Your Call Sign
Vanity call signs – similar to vanity license plates Pick any call sign authorized for your license class Technicians can have 2x3 (Group D) or 1x3 (Group C) calls Discuss with the students how each licensee can request a specific, un-issued, call sign. Point out that a fee is required to obtain and maintain the vanity call sign. This would be a good opportunity to mention the ARRL’s many licensing services that are available and that some of the services are free to members. 2014 Technician License Course

Special Event and Club Calls
Special event call signs: 1x1 Reserved via administrators ( Club calls Must have a valid club Application by club’s trustee Discuss with the students briefly how and why they might obtain a special event call. Give examples of a local special event from your area. Review briefly the requirements for a club in order for a club call to be assigned. The trustee makes the application and serves as the contact point for the FCC. 2014 Technician License Course

Control Operator Control operator – the amateur licensee responsible for making sure transmissions comply with FCC rules. The FCC requires that transmissions are made only under the control of a licensed operator. This is a key aspect of the FCC rules – all transmissions are the responsibility of a licensed control operator, regardless of the type of control. 2014 Technician License Course

Control Operator Designated by the station licensee. Must have a valid FCC-issued Amateur Radio license or have reciprocal operating permission. Station must operate within the authorization of the control operator’s license. Control operator must be present at the control point of the station Assumed to be the station licensee unless otherwise documented. The control operator must be licensed. The station must be operated within the privileges of the control operator’s license and the control operator must be present at the transmitter’s control point. If an Extra Class and a Tech Class ham are operating a station and the Tech is the control operator, then the station is restricted to Tech privileges. To use the Extra class privileges, than the Extra Class ham must be the control operator. The control operator must be in a position to ensure proper operation of the station and to prevent improper transmissions. For example, the control operator of a repeater must be able to turn off the repeater if there are improper transmissions being made. This would usually done by remote control. 2014 Technician License Course

Control Point Wherever the station controls are operated – not necessarily the physical transmitter The control operator must be able to assert control of the transmitter Control point can be at the transmitter, or linked to the transmitter Control by a circuit or computer is also allowed Note that types of control are covered in the next module. 2014 Technician License Course

Guest Operations Non-licensed people can make transmissions but only when a control operator is present. The control operator is solely responsible for station operation. For licensed guest operators, both the control operator and the guest ham are responsible for station operation. Create different scenarios to illustrate how this works: A young ham allowing his or her un-licensed parent to use an HT A licensed teacher allowing the students to talk on a radio. Unlicensed emergency responders using an ARES member’s radio to communicate during an emergency. Demonstrating ham radio to an unlicensed guest and allowing them to talk on the air 2014 Technician License Course

Station Identification (ID)
All transmissions must be identified State the call sign every 10 minutes during and at the end of the communication Use phonetics on voice modes Use of “Tactical Calls” Licensed Guests You are only required to transmit your call sign at 10-minute intervals and at the end of communication with the other station or stations. The communication can consist of a sequence of transmissions so the call sign does not have to be given at the end of each transmission. Give some examples of proper identification. Also mention that regardless of the language being used for the contact, the station identification must be made in English. It is good practice to say both call signs so that others know who is on the air…maybe they will want to join in the conversation. Review “tactical calls” (more accurately, tactical identifiers) and how they might be used. Also stress that the 10-minute ID rule still applies with regard to the operator’s assigned call and give an example of how to properly use tactical and personal call signs to satisfy this requirement. Finally review how a guest operator who has a higher class license than the owner of the station must identify – by appending their call to the station owners call sign. This is why it is more common for the station owner to “lend” the station to the guest operator – so they don’t have to say or send both calls each time. 2014 Technician License Course

Miscellaneous ID Rules
Repeaters must also ID using the same 10 minute rule. Can be voice or CW (at 20 WPM or less). Satellites and ISS have special rules. Special event calls. Club call or control operator call given once per hour. There are many special circumstances. The important thing here is for the students to recognize that the rules are not always hard and fast and that there are exceptions that need to be understood if they will be involved in these kinds of operations. The important thing is for a listening station to be able to identify the source of a transmission. 2014 Technician License Course

Third-Party Communications
Third-party communication – transmissions on behalf of an unlicensed entity Could mean actually speaking on the air Could mean passing a message on behalf of third party Two situations – different rules Within the US Communication that crosses international borders Define third-party communications and give some examples. 2014 Technician License Course

Third-Party within US No special rules. Just make sure the message is non-commercial in nature. 2014 Technician License Course

Third-Party Across Borders
Third-party agreement with US must exist Check for current third-party agreements from ARRL website or FCC sources if in doubt Most agreements are within ITU Region II This includes contest operation Identify with both stations’ call signs Pass out copies of the table in the text that lists the countries we have third-party agreements with. 2014 Technician License Course

Who may select a desired call sign under the vanity call sign rules?
A. Only a licensed amateur with a General or Amateur Extra class license B. Only a licensed amateur with an Amateur Extra class license C. Only a licensed amateur who has been licensed continuously for more than 10 years D. Any licensed amateur FCC Rule: [97.19] T1C02 HRLM (7 - 17)

Which of the following is a valid call sign for a Technician class amateur radio station? A. K1XXX B. KA1X C. W1XX D. All of these choices are correct T1C05 HRLM (7-17) 2014 Technician License Course

Which of the following is a vanity call sign which a technician class amateur operator might select if available? A. K1XXX B. KA1X C. W1XX D. All of these choices are correct T1C05 HRLM (7-17) 2014 Technician License Course

When is an amateur station permitted to transmit without a control operator? A. When using automatic control, such as in the case of a repeater B. When the station licensee is away and another licensed amateur is using the station C. When the transmitting station is an auxiliary station D. Never FCC Rule: [97.7] T1E01 HRLM (8-1) 2014 Technician License Course

What is an amateur station control point?
A. The location of the station’s transmitting antenna B. The location of the station transmitting apparatus C. The location at which the control operator function is performed D. The mailing address of the station licensee FCC Rule: [97.3(a)(14)] T1E05 HRLM (8-1) 2014 Technician License Course

Who must designate the station control operator?
A. The station licensee B. The FCC C. The frequency coordinator D. The ITU FCC Rule: [97.103(b)] T1E03 HRLM (8-1) 2014 Technician License Course

Who does the FCC presume to be the control operator of an amateur station, unless documentation to the contrary is in the station records? A. The station custodian B. The third party participant C. The person operating the station equipment D. The station licensee FCC Rule: [97.103(a)] T1E11 HRLM (8-2) 2014 Technician License Course

What determines the transmitting privileges of an amateur station?
A. The frequency authorized by the frequency coordinator B. The frequencies printed on the license grant C. The highest class of operator license held by anyone on the premises D. The class of operator license held by the control operator FCC Rule: [97.105(b)] T1E04 HRLM (8-2) 2014 Technician License Course

When, under normal circumstances, may a Technician class licensee be the control operator of a station operating in an exclusive Amateur Extra class operator segment of the amateur bands? A. At no time B. When operating a special event station C. As part of a multi-operator contest team D. When using a club station whose trustee is an Amateur Extra class operator licensee FCC Rule: [97.301] T1E06 HRLM (8 - 2)

When the control operator is not the station licensee, who is responsible for the proper operation of the station? A. All licensed amateurs who are present at the operation B. Only the station licensee C. Only the control operator D. The control operator and the station licensee are equally responsible FCC Rule: [97.103(a)] T1E07 HRLM (8-2) 2014 Technician License Course

When may an amateur station transmit without on-the-air identification?
A. When the transmissions are of a brief nature to make station adjustments B. When the transmissions are unmodulated C. When the transmitted power level is below 1 watt D. When transmitting signals to control model craft FCC Rule: [97.119(a)] T1D11 HRLM (8 - 3)

When is an amateur station required to transmit its assigned call sign? A. At the beginning of each contact, and every 10 minutes thereafter B. At least once during each transmission C. At least every 15 minutes during and at the end of a communication D. At least every 10 minutes during and at the end of a communication FCC Rule: [97.119(a)] T1F03 HRLM (8-3) 2014 Technician License Course

When using tactical identifiers such as “Race Headquarters” during a community service net operation, how often must your station transmit the station’s FCC-assigned call sign? A. Never, the tactical call is sufficient B. Once during every hour C. At the end of each communication and every ten minutes during a communication D. At the end of every transmission FCC Rule: [ (a)] T1F02 HRLM (8-4) 2014 Technician License Course

Which of the following is an acceptable language to use for station identification when operating in a phone sub-band? A. Any language recognized by the United Nations B. Any language recognized by the ITU C. The English language D. English, French, or Spanish FCC Rule: [97.119(b)(2)] T1F04 HRLM (8-4) 2014 Technician License Course

What method of call sign identification is required for a station transmitting phone signals? A. Send the call sign followed by the indicator RPT B. Send the call sign using CW or phone emission C. Send the call sign followed by the indicator R D. Send the call sign using only phone emission FCC Rule: [97.119(b)(2)] T1F05 HRLM (8-4) 2014 Technician License Course

What are the FCC rules regarding the use of a phonetic alphabet for station identification in the Amateur Radio Service? A. It is required when transmitting emergency messages B. It is prohibited C. It is required when in contact with foreign stations D. It is encouraged FCC Rule: [97.119(b)(2)] T1A03 HRLM (8 - 4)

Which of the following formats of a self-assigned indicator is acceptable when identifying using a phone transmission? A. KL7CC stroke W3 B. KL7CC slant W3 C. KL7CC slash W3 D. All of these choices are correct FCC Rule: [97.119(c)] T1F06 HRLM (8-5) 2014 Technician License Course

Which of the following is required when making on-the-air test transmissions?
A. Identify the transmitting station B. Conduct tests only between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. local time C. Notify the FCC of the transmissions D. All of these choices are correct T2A06 HRLM (8 - 5)

Interference, Remote & Automatic Operation, Prohibited Transmissions

Interference QRN or “Static” Natural interference (thunderstorms) Man-made (appliances and power lines) QRM Interference caused by other signals Can be from transmitted signals Can be created internally by a receiver Review these “Q” signals. 2014 Technician License Course

Interference Harmful Interference that is disruptive, not necessarily willful. Deal with it as best you can, try to avoid causing harmful interference. Willful Intentionally causing interference. This becomes a legal and law enforcement issue. This is rare and there are procedures to deal with this (ARRL Official Observers can help). Give the students some techniques on how to identify the type of interference and how to deal with it. Most interference is unintentional. Everyone makes a mistake and, in fact, most hams cause unintentional interference at times. Willful interference is another matter. Stress that it is rare. Give the students some strategies on how to deal with this kind of interference. Document the interference and give the information to their local Official Observer. Also avoid giving the perpetrator an audience. In most cases the person doing the interfering will give up and go somewhere else if they do not get the response and attention they are looking for. In all cases, if the students receive an interference complaint, they need to take that complaint seriously and deal with it as best they can. 2014 Technician License Course

Preventing Interference
Use common sense and courtesy Know how to operate your equipment to reduce generated and received interference No one owns a frequency; be a good neighbor and share – have a “Plan B” Recognize special operations and special circumstances It is hard to teach common sense, but try to give the students some techniques to avoid interference problems and how they can mitigate interference should it occur (and it will). It is important to stress that getting into an on-the-air argument about interference is counterproductive and should be avoided. 2014 Technician License Course

Control Point Where the control operator function is performed – not necessarily at the physical transmitter Local control: operator is at the transmitter Remote control: control point is linked to the transmitter by a control link which could be telephone, radio, or Internet Automatic control: control functions are operated by circuitry that ensures proper operation The control point is where the function of controlling a transmitter is performed by the control operator. That can be at the transmitter (local) or linked to the transmitter via some kind of control link (remote). 2014 Technician License Course

Automatic Control Control operator is always required Responsible for proper operation Repeaters, auxiliary stations, space stations, and beacons may operate under automatic control Repeater users are responsible for their transmissions through a repeater If the control function is performed by a circuit or program (automatic) a control operator is still needed to take responsibility for proper operation. The control operator just doesn’t need to be present when the station is transmitting. Automatic control systems usually have safeguards to prevent improper operation. Mention the time-out timer on a repeater as an example. 2014 Technician License Course

Prohibited Transmissions
Unidentified transmissions Not giving your call sign False or deceptive signals Using someone else’s call sign False distress or emergency signals Fake calls for help Obscene or indecent speech Up to interpretation, avoid controversial subjects Music Most of these prohibited transmissions should be easy to identify. Obscene or indecent language is up to some interpretation. Give the students some examples of things to avoid discussing on the radio. Note that re-broadcasting programming from a commercial station is prohibited. Even incidental rebroadcasting is frowned on, so turn the car radio down when you’re operating a mobile station. 2014 Technician License Course

No Commercial Communications
Advertising ham radio gear is okay as long as it’s not your regular business. (Don’t advertise non-ham gear.) You may not use ham radio on behalf of your employer. Exception: teachers may use ham radio in their classrooms, clubs may employ an operator but only with restrictions on hours. This is also another area where it can get a little gray. Give some examples of acceptable and unacceptable business-related communications. It boils down to if the operator is going to profit in some way by the transmission, then they should not do it. If in doubt, don’t use ham radio for the transmission. In the scenario of professionals using ham radio during an emergency situation the usual factor to consider is whether there is an immediate threat to life or property and whether there is another more appropriate means of communication available. 2014 Technician License Course

No Encrypted Transmissions
Encryption means deliberately encoding information for transmission in order to hide or obscure the message. Encryption is only allowed for: Radio control Space station control Most students will not get involved in this situation. They should not try to hide or deceive anyone listening in on the transmission through the use of codes. The use of codes does not necessarily have to be technical in nature. 2014 Technician License Course

No Broadcasting Broadcasting is sending one-way transmissions to the general public: News Music Exceptions: Code practice Ham radio-related bulletins Retransmission of space station control communications 2014 Technician License Course

Special Circumstances
Emergencies and critical situations create special circumstances. Special events may qualify as special circumstances. Normal rules return when the situation returns to normal. Though ham communication is generally intended for hams, there are special circumstances where the rules are set aside to support the community at large during the emergency or critical situation. Give the students some specific examples that they might come across in their communities or regions. 2014 Technician License Course

When is willful interference to other amateur radio stations permitted?
A. To stop another amateur station which is breaking the FCC rules B. At no time C. When making short test transmissions D. At any time, stations in the Amateur Radio Service are not protected from willful interference FCC Rule: [97.101(d)] T1A11 HRLM (8 - 6)

Which of the following applies when two stations transmitting on the same frequency interfere with each other? A. Common courtesy should prevail, but no one has absolute right to an amateur frequency B. Whoever has the strongest signal has priority on the frequency C. Whoever has been on the frequency the longest has priority on the frequency D. The station that has the weakest signal has priority on the frequency T2B08 HRLM (8 - 6)

What is meant by the term "Third Party Communications"?
A. A message from a control operator to another amateur station control operator on behalf of another person B. Amateur radio communications where three stations are in communications with one another C. Operation when the transmitting equipment is licensed to a person other than the control operator D. Temporary authorization for an unlicensed person to transmit on the amateur bands for technical experiments FCC Rule: [97.3(a)(47)] T1F08 HRLM (8 - 7)

Which of the following meets the FCC definition of harmful interference? A. Radio transmissions that annoy users of a repeater B. Unwanted radio transmissions that cause costly harm to radio station apparatus C. That which seriously degrades, obstructs, or repeatedly interrupts a radio communication service operating in accordance with the Radio Regulations D. Static from lightning storms FCC Rule: [97.3(a)(23)] T1A04 HRLM (8-7) 2014 Technician License Course

Which of the following services are protected from interference by amateur signals under all circumstances? A. Citizens Radio Service B. Broadcast Service C. Land Mobile Radio Service D. Radionavigation Service FCC Rule: [97.101(d), (o)(2)] T1A06 HRLM (8-7) 2014 Technician License Course

Which of the following restrictions apply when a non-licensed person is allowed to use a station under the control of a Technician Class control operator to speak to a foreign station? A. The person must be a U.S. citizen B. The foreign station must be one with whom the U.S. has a “third party agreement” C. The licensed control operator must do the station identification D. All of these choices are correct FCC Rule: [97.115(a)(2)] T1F07 HRLM (8-8) 2014 Technician License Course

Which of the following is an example of automatic control?
A. Repeater operation B. Controlling the station over the Internet C. Using a computer or other device to automatically send CW D. Using a computer or other device to automatically identify FCC Rule: [97.3(a)(6), (d)] T1E08 HRLM (8-9) 2014 Technician License Course

Which of the following is true of remote control operation?
A. The control operator must be at the control point B. A control operator is required at all times C. The control operator indirectly manipulates the controls D. All of these choices are correct FCC Rule: [97.109(c)] T1E09 HRLM (8 - 9)

Which of the following is an example of remote control as defined in Part 97? A. Repeater operation B. Operating the station over the internet C. Controlling a model aircraft, boat, or car by amateur radio D. All of these choices are correct FCC Rule: [97.3(a)(39)] T1E10 HRLM (8-9) 2014 Technician License Course

Who is accountable should a repeater inadvertently retransmit communications that violate the FCC rules? A. The control operator of the originating station B. The control operator of the repeater C. The owner of the repeater D. Both the originating station and the repeater owner FCC Rule: [97.205(g)] T1F10 HRLM (8-9) 2014 Technician License Course

When may amateur radio operators use their stations to notify other amateurs of the availability of equipment for sale or trade? A. When the equipment is normally used in an amateur station and such activity is not conducted on a regular basis B. When the asking price is $ or less C. When the asking price is less than its appraised value D. When the equipment is not the personal property of either the station licensee or the control operator or their close relatives FCC Rule: [97.113(a)(3)(ii)] T1D05 HRLM (8-10) 2014 Technician License Course

What, if any, are the restrictions concerning transmission of language that may be considered indecent or obscene? A. The FCC maintains a list of words that are not permitted to be used on amateur frequencies B. Any such language is prohibited C. The ITU maintains a list of words that are not permitted to be used on amateur frequencies D. There is no such prohibition FCC Rule: [97.113(a)(4)] T1D06 HRLM (8-10) 2014 Technician License Course

What type of control is being used when the control operator is at the control point? A. Radio control B. Unattended control C. Automatic control D. Local control FCC Rule: [97.109(b)] T1E09 HRLM (8-10) 2014 Technician License Course

When is it permissible to transmit messages encoded to hide their meaning? A. Only during contests B. Only when operating mobile C. Only when transmitting control commands to space stations or radio control craft D. Only when frequencies above 1280 MHz are used FCC Rule: [97.211(b), (b)] T1D03 HRLM (8-11) 2014 Technician License Course

In which of the following circumstances may the control operator of an amateur station receive compensation for operating that station? A. When the communication is related to the sale of amateur equipment by the control operator's employer B. When the communication is incidental to classroom instruction at an educational institution C. When the communication is made to obtain emergency information for a local broadcast station D. All of these choices are correct FCC Rule: [97.113(a)(3)(iii)] T1D08 HRLM (8 - 11)

Under which of the following circumstances may an amateur radio station make one-way transmissions?
A. Under no circumstances B. When transmitting code practice, information bulletins, or transmissions necessary to provide emergency communications C. At any time, as long as no music is transmitted D. At any time, as long as the material being transmitted did not originate from a commercial broadcast station FCC Rule: [97.113(b),97.111(b)] T1D02 HRLM (8 - 12)

Under what conditions is an amateur station authorized to transmit music using a phone emission? A. When incidental to an authorized retransmission of manned spacecraft communications B. When the music produces no spurious emissions C. When the purpose is to interfere with an illegal transmission D. When the music is transmitted above 1280 MHz FCC Rule: [97.113(a)(4), 97.11(a)3(ii)] T1D04 HRLM (8-12) 2014 Technician License Course

What types of amateur stations can automatically retransmit the signals of other amateur stations? A. Auxiliary, beacon, or Earth stations B. Repeater, auxiliary, or space stations C. Beacon, repeater, or space stations D. Earth, repeater, or space stations FCC Rule: [97.113(d)] T1D07 HRLM (8-12) 2014 Technician License Course

Under which of the following circumstances are amateur stations authorized to transmit signals related to broadcasting, program production, or news gathering, assuming no other means is available? A. Only where such communications directly relate to the immediate safety of human life or protection of property B. Only when broadcasting communications to or from the space shuttle C. Only where noncommercial programming is gathered and supplied exclusively to the National Public Radio network D. Only when using amateur repeaters linked to the Internet FCC Rule: [97.113(5)(b)] T1D09 HRLM (8-12) 2014 Technician License Course

What is the meaning of the term "broadcasting" in the FCC rules for the amateur services? A. Two-way transmissions by amateur stations B. Transmission of music C. Transmission of messages directed only to amateur operators D. Transmissions intended for reception by the general public FCC Rule: [97.3(a)(10)] T1D10 HRLM (8-12) 2014 Technician License Course

Safety and Amateur Radio

Electrical Injuries Shocks and burns. Low voltages can cause enough current to create problems. Equipment today uses lower voltage than tube equipment but it can still cause burns. Even low voltages are sometimes enough to cause hazardous current. Never assume voltage is harmless! Even though most modern equipment runs off of 12 volts, there are still dangerous voltages to be wary of, particularly in power supplies that convert 120 volts AC to 12 volt DC. Be cautious and vigilant around electricity. Remind students that current through the heart is the most dangerous: hand to hand, hand to foot And electricity moves a LOT faster than a person! 2014 Technician License Course

Electrical Safety Avoiding contact is the most effective way of practicing electrical safety Unplug equipment before working on it Keep one hand in your pocket Make sure equipment is grounded Use power from GFCI-protected circuits Don’t provide a path for current through you. Don’t work on live equipment unless required to do so for adjustment or testing. Even then, don’t work alone! 2014 Technician License Course

Mitigating Electrical Hazards
If working on live equipment is required: Remove jewelry Avoid unintentional touching of circuitry Never bypass safety interlocks Discharge high-voltage points and components to ground Capacitors can store charge after power is off Storage batteries are dangerous when shorted Explain what an interlock is. Show the students a grounding stick if one is available or a photo of one. Explain how to use it and when it is necessary. Spend some time talking about battery safety. The energy capacities of today’s batteries makes even more important to avoid short-circuiting batteries. 2014 Technician License Course

Responding to Electrical Injury
REMOVE POWER! Have ON/OFF switches and circuit breakers clearly marked. Install an emergency master power switch and make sure your family knows how to use it. Call for help. Learn CPR and first aid. Online safety websites have instructions for what to do in case of electrical injury. Remind students of the ARRL’s “Switch to Safety” program. 2014 Technician License Course

Electrical Grounding and Circuit Protection
Make sure your station wiring meets code Most ham equipment does not require special wiring or circuits Use 3-wire power cords Use circuit breakers, circuit breaker outlets, or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) circuit breakers or outlets Use proper fuse or circuit breaker size Don’t overload single outlets or circuits Show the students a properly wired 3-prong plug and ac socket using proper color-coded wiring. 2014 Technician License Course

Grounding & Bonding at RF
RF burns from “hot spots” at high RF voltage Do not cause serious injury at ham power level Prevent by bonding (connecting) equipment together with heavy wire or strap – braided strap not recommended at RF Prevent by keeping people away from antennas and radial or counterpoise wires Ground equipment for AC safety Explain that connecting equipment to ground does little at RF since a ground path is often electrically long and acts more like an antenna. Discuss how bonding keeps all of the equipment at the same RF voltage so that hot spots do not form and RF current does not flow between pieces of equipment. 2014 Technician License Course

Lightning Protection Ground antennas and towers to local code Use 8-ft ground rod for each tower leg Bond rods to tower leg and the other rods Ground connections should be as short as possible Use lightning arrestors on a single ground plate where cables enter the house Unplug and disconnect equipment (including telephones and computers) and feed lines if lightning is expected Following local codes is important and may be required for insurance coverage. Keep ground connections short and direct. Use a common ground connection as much as possible for lightning. Mention the ARRL’s equipment insurance program as a benefit for members. 2014 Technician License Course

RF Exposure Electromagnetic radiation (EMR) is not the same as radioactivity – much lower energy RF energy heats body tissues Heating depends on the RF intensity and frequency. If precautions are taken, RF exposure is minimal and not dangerous. Point out to the students that RF exposure only causes very mild heating of body tissues (much like happens in a microwave oven but to a FAR lower extent). With simple precautions, the potential of harm is very low. Repeat the simple rule of not standing near or touching an antenna when the transmitter is on. 2014 Technician License Course

RF Intensity Power Density Watts per square centimeter (w/cm2) Higher power density means higher RF exposure RF absorption varies with frequency because of body part size Safe exposure levels have been established by the FCC Here you will break down and discuss the two components of RF exposure, field intensity and frequency. Try to keep the discussion focused on the big picture, it is easy to get into details, charts and graphs, and vocabulary of units that can be very intimidating. Cover in general terms what influences RF exposure and how to limit the exposure. It makes sense that the more power you transmit, the more potential there is for harmful RF exposure. Assure the students that if they operate commercial, off-the-shelf equipment (which they probably will early in their ham radio careers) that the power levels are such that there will be little exposure danger. Beam antennas focus the RF energy in desired directions, therefore being close to the antenna in the favored direction of the beam will increase the hazard. 2014 Technician License Course

Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE)
Show how MPE varies with frequency. The points at which the graph is the lowest are the points at which the body absorbs RF the most. These are the frequency ranges at which the body and limbs are close to ½ or ¼ wavelength and begin acting like antennas. 2014 Technician License Course

RF Environment Controlled Environment. You know where people are standing in relation to your antenna and you can do something about it. Higher power density is allowed because you can make adjustments if needed. Uncontrolled Environment. You have no control of people near your antenna. Lower power density is allowed because you cannot control or adjust the exposure of people. If you have control of the environment around the antenna, you are allowed to use more power because you can take steps to limit exposure if required. Discuss several examples of controlled and uncontrolled environments. (See the ARRL Technology web page on RF Exposure or the ARRL’s RF Exposure and You. 2014 Technician License Course

Duty Cycle and Duty Factor
Duty cycle is the percentage of time that a transmitter is on during the evaluation period, from 0 to 100% Duty cycle = 100 x (time on / total time) Duty factor is the same as duty cycle, but given as a number from 0 to 1.0 Higher duty cycle or factor means higher average power density and exposure Note the relationship between the transmitter on/off duty cycle and that of the mode itself. Give some simple examples of duty cycle and illustrate with a simulated contact. 2014 Technician License Course

Mode Duty Cycle Accounts for the different characteristics of the transmitted signal’s waveform Note here, that FM, the mode most used by new hams, has a 100% duty cycle when the transmitter is on. 2014 Technician License Course

RF Exposure Evaluation
All fixed stations must perform an exposure evaluation. Use online calculator (easiest) Model exposure with software (difficult) Measure RF power density (most difficult) At lower power levels, no evaluation is required. Varies with frequency – example: below 50 W at VHF. Re-evaluate exposure when station equipment or operating frequencies change. Stress that the online calculators are very easy to use and it’s actually quite rare for a ham to have to change the station or antenna configuration to comply with RF exposure rules. 2014 Technician License Course

Reducing RF Exposure Relocate or reorient antennas Raise the antenna Reduce antenna gain Reduce RF power output Change to a lower duty cycle mode 2014 Technician License Course

Mobile Safety Mobile Installations Secure all equipment Place equipment where you can operate it safely while driving Know local rules for use of communications equipment while driving May need hands-free microphone Make sure that equipment in cars is securely fastened so that it will not move around and create a hazard in an accident. Locate the controls of the equipment so that it does not present a hazard and distraction while driving. Some states now require hands-free microphones. Regardless, drive safely and don’t use the radio when your attention is needed on the road. 2014 Technician License Course

Power Line Safety Keep antennas well away from power lines Check for power lines before installing antennas in trees Provide a minimum of 10 feet of clearance if antenna falls Never attach antennas or guy lines to utility poles or structures Antennas generally need to be clear of obstacles and as high as practical. However, some common sense needs to be exercised to prevent antennas from becoming a safety hazard. Particular attention needs to be given to power lines and structure attachment points. Raising or lowering an antenna can be particularly risky if power lines are nearby. If the antenna and/or mast or tower falls, be sure that it can not fall into power lines. People are electrocuted every year in this way. 2014 Technician License Course

Tower Work Basic tower safety Proper clothing, hard hat and eye protection Use a proper climbing harness, not a lineman’s belt or rock-climbing gear Don’t climb a crank-up tower supported only by its lift cable – block and secure it first Use a gin pole to lift heavy items Don’t work alone – use a ground crew Finally go over some precautions and safety considerations that must be taken if the students will be doing or assisting with tower work for a friend or club. Most students will not be installing towers early in their ham careers, but they should be aware that special precautions should be taken and where they can review that information in the future. Suggest that they help out an experienced ham to learn how to do the work. 2014 Technician License Course

What kind of hazard might exist in a power supply when it is turned off and disconnected? A. Static electricity could damage the grounding system B. Circulating currents inside the transformer might cause damage C. The fuse might blow if you remove the cover D. You might receive an electric shock from the charge stored in large capacitors T0A11 HRLM (9-2) 2014 Technician License Course

What health hazard is presented by electrical current flowing through the body?
A. It may cause injury by heating tissue B. It may disrupt the electrical functions of cells C. It may cause involuntary muscle contractions D. All of these choices are correct T0A02 HRLM (9 - 2)

Which of the following is a safety hazard of a 12 voltage storage battery? A. Touching both terminals with the hands can cause electrical shock B. Shorting the terminals can cause burns, fire, or an explosion C. RF emissions from the battery D. All of these choices are correct T0A01 HRLM (9-3) 2014 Technician License Course

What is a good way to guard against electrical shock at your station?
Use three-wire cords and plugs for all AC powered equipment Connect all AC powered station equipment to a common safety ground Use a circuit protected by a ground-fault interrupter D. All of these choices are correct T0A06 HRLM (9-4) 2014 Technician License Course

Which of these precautions should be taken when installing devices for lightning protection in a coaxial cable feed line? A. Include a parallel bypass switch for each protector so that it can be switched out of the circuit when running high power B. Include a series switch in the ground line of each protector to prevent RF overload from inadvertently damaging the protector C. Keep the ground wires from each protector separate and connected to station ground D. Mount all of the protectors on a metal plate that is in turn connected to an external ground rod T0A07 HRLM (9-5) 2014 Technician License Course

What safety equipment should always be included in home-built equipment that is powered from 120V AC power circuits? A. A fuse or circuit breaker in series with the AC hot conductor B. An AC voltmeter across the incoming power source C. An inductor in parallel with the AC power source D. A capacitor in series with the AC power source T0A08 HRLM (9 - 5)

What should be done to all external ground rods or earth connections?
A. Waterproof them with silicone caulk or electrical tape B. Keep them as far apart as possible C. Bond them together with heavy wire or conductive strap D. Tune them for resonance on the lowest frequency of operation T0A09 HRLM (9 - 5)

In the United States, what is connected to the green wire in a three-wire electrical AC plug? A. Neutral B. Hot C. Equipment ground D. The white wire T0A03 HRLM (9-5) 2014 Technician License Course

Which of the following is true when installing grounding conductors used for lightning protection? A. Only non-insulated wire must be used B. Wires must be carefully routed with precise right-angle bends C. Sharp bends must be avoided D. Common grounds must be avoided T0B10 HRLM (9-5) 2014 Technician License Course

Which of the following establishes grounding requirements for an amateur radio tower or antenna? A. FCC Part 97 Rules B. Local electrical codes C. FAA tower lighting regulations D. UL recommended practices T0B11 HRLM (9-5) 2014 Technician License Course

Which of the following is good practice when installing ground wires on a tower for lightning protection? A. Put a loop in the ground connection to prevent water damage to the ground system B. Make sure that all bends in the ground wires are clean, right-angle bends C. Ensure that connections are short and direct D. All of these choices are correct T0B12 HRLM (9-5) 2014 Technician License Course

What is a symptom of RF feedback in a transmitter or transceiver?
A. Excessive SWR at the antenna connection B. The transmitter will not stay on the desired frequency C. Reports of garbled, distorted, or unintelligible voice transmissions D. Frequent blowing of power supply fuses T7B11 HRLM (9 - 6)

Which of the following conductors provides the lowest impedance to RF signals?
A. Round stranded wire B. Round copper-clad steel wire C. Twisted-pair cable D. Flat strap T4A08 HRLM (9 - 7)

Which of the following could you use to cure distorted audio caused by RF current on the shield of a microphone cable? A. Band-pass filter B. Low-pass filter C. Preamplifier D. Ferrite choke T4A09 HRLM (9 - 8)

What would cause a broadcast AM or FM radio to receive an amateur radio transmission unintentionally? A. The receiver is unable to reject strong signals outside the AM or FM band B. The microphone gain of the transmitter is turned up too high C. The audio amplifier of the transmitter is overloaded D. The deviation of an FM transmitter is set too low T7B02 HRLM (9 - 8)

Which of the following can cause radio frequency interference?
A. Fundamental overload B. Harmonics C. Spurious emissions D. All of these choices are correct T7B03 HRLM (9 - 8)

Which of the following is a way to reduce or eliminate interference from an amateur transmitter to a nearby telephone? A. Put a filter on the amateur transmitter B. Reduce the microphone gain C. Reduce the SWR on the transmitter transmission line D. Put an RF filter on the telephone T7B04 HRLM (9 - 8)

Which of the following is a common reason to use shielded wire?
A. To decrease the resistance of DC power connections B. To increase the current carrying capability of the wire C. To prevent coupling of unwanted signals to or from the wire D. To couple the wire to other signals T6D12 HRLM (9 - 9)

How can overload of a non-amateur radio or TV receiver by an amateur signal be reduced or eliminated? A. Block the amateur signal with a filter at the antenna input of the affected receiver B. Block the interfering signal with a filter on the amateur transmitter C. Switch the transmitter from FM to SSB D. Switch the transmitter to a narrow-band mode T7B05 HRLM (9 - 9)

Which of the following actions should you take if a neighbor tells you that your station’s transmissions are interfering with their radio or TV reception? A. Make sure that your station is functioning properly and that it does not cause interference to your own radio or television when it is tuned to the same channel B. Immediately turn off your transmitter and contact the nearest FCC office for assistance C. Tell them that your license gives you the right to transmit and nothing can be done to reduce the interference D. Install a harmonic doubler on the output of your transmitter and tune it until the interference is eliminated T7B06 HRLM (9 - 9)

Which of the following can reduce overload to a VHF transceiver from a nearby FM broadcast station?
A. RF preamplifier B. Double-shielded coaxial cable C. Using headphones instead of the speaker D. Band-reject filter T7B07 HRLM (9 - 9)

What should be the first step to resolve cable TV interference from your ham radio transmission?
A. Add a low-pass filter to the TV antenna input B. Add a high-pass filter to the TV antenna input C. Add a preamplifier to the TV antenna input D. Be sure all TV coaxial connectors are installed properly T7B12 HRLM (9 - 9)

What should you do if something in a neighbor’s home is causing harmful interference to your amateur station? A. Work with your neighbor to identify the offending device B. Politely inform your neighbor about the rules that prohibit the use of devices that cause interference C. Check your station and make sure it meets the standards of good amateur practice D. All of these choices are correct T7B08 HRLM (9 - 10)

What is a Part 15 device? A. An unlicensed device that may emit low-powered radio signals on frequencies used by a licensed service B. An amplifier that has been type-certified for amateur radio C. A device for long-distance communications using special codes sanctioned by the International Amateur Radio Union D. A type of test set used to determine whether a transmitter complies with FCC regulation 91.15 T7B09 HRLM (9 - 10)

What type of radiation are VHF and UHF radio signals?
A. Gamma radiation B. Ionizing radiation C. Alpha radiation D. Non-ionizing radiation T0C01 HRLM (9-11) 2014 Technician License Course

Why do exposure limits vary with frequency?
A. Lower frequency RF fields have more energy than higher frequency fields B. Lower frequency RF fields do not penetrate the human body C. Higher frequency RF fields are transient in nature D. The human body absorbs more RF energy at some frequencies than at others T0C05 HRLM (9-11) 2014 Technician License Course

What could happen if a person accidentally touched your antenna while you were transmitting? A. Touching the antenna could cause television interference B. They might receive a painful RF burn C. They might develop radiation poisoning D. All of these choices are correct T0C07 HRLM (9-11) 2014 Technician License Course

How does RF radiation differ from ionizing radiation (radioactivity)?
A. RF radiation does not have sufficient energy to cause genetic damage B. RF radiation can only be detected with an RF dosimeter C. RF radiation is limited in range to a few feet D. RF radiation is perfectly safe T0C12 HRLM (9-11) 2014 Technician License Course

Which of the following frequencies has the lowest Maximum Permissible Exposure limit? A. 3.5 MHz B. 50 MHz C. 440 MHz D MHz T0C02 HRLM (9-12) 2014 Technician License Course

Why is duty cycle one of the factors used to determine safe RF radiation exposure levels? A. It affects the average exposure of people to radiation B. It affects the peak exposure of people to radiation C. It takes into account the antenna feed line loss D. It takes into account the thermal effects of the final amplifier T0C10 HRLM (9-13) 2014 Technician License Course

What is the definition of duty cycle during the averaging time for RF exposure? A. The difference between the lowest power output and the highest power output of a transmitter B. The difference between the PEP and average power output of a transmitter C. The percentage of time that a transmitter is transmitting D. The percentage of time that a transmitter is not transmitting T0C11 HRLM (9-13) 2014 Technician License Course

If the averaging time for exposure is 6 minutes, how much power density is permitted if the signal is present for 3 minutes and absent for 3 minutes rather than being present for the entire 6 minutes? A. 3 times as much B. 1/2 as much C. 2 times as much D. There is no adjustment allowed for shorter exposure times T0C13 HRLM (9-13) 2014 Technician License Course

Which of the following is an acceptable method to determine that your station complies with FCC RF exposure regulations? A. By calculation based on FCC OET Bulletin 65 B. By calculation based on computer modeling C. By measurement of field strength using calibrated equipment D. All of these choices are correct T0C06 HRLM (9-14) 2014 Technician License Course

Which of the following actions might amateur operators take to prevent exposure to RF radiation in excess of FCC-supplied limits? A. Relocate antennas B. Relocate the transmitter C. Increase the duty cycle D. All of these choices are correct T0C08 HRLM (9-14) 2014 Technician License Course

How can you make sure your station stays in compliance with RF safety regulations? A. By informing the FCC of any changes made in your station B. By re-evaluating the station whenever an item of equipment is changed C. By making sure your antennas have low SWR D. All of these choices are correct T0C09 HRLM (9-14) 2014 Technician License Course

What is the maximum power level that an amateur radio station may use at VHF frequencies before an RF exposure evaluation is required? A watts PEP transmitter output B. 1 watt forward power C. 50 watts PEP at the antenna D. 50 watts PEP reflected power T0C03 HRLM (9-14) 2014 Technician License Course

What factors affect the RF exposure of people near an amateur station antenna? A. Frequency and power level of the RF field B. Distance from the antenna to a person C. Radiation pattern of the antenna D. All of these choices are correct T0C04 HRLM (9-14) 2014 Technician License Course

Which of the following is an important safety precaution to observe when putting up an antenna tower? A. Wear a ground strap connected to your wrist at all times B. Insulate the base of the tower to avoid lightning strikes C. Look for and stay clear of any overhead electrical wires D. All of these choices are correct T0B04 HRLM (9-18) 2014 Technician License Course

What is the minimum safe distance from a power line to allow when installing an antenna? A. Half the width of your property B. The height of the power line above ground C. 1/2 wavelength at the operating frequency D. So that if the antenna falls unexpectedly, no part of it can come closer than 10 feet to the power wires T0B06 HRLM (9-18) 2014 Technician License Course

What is considered to be a proper grounding method for a tower?
A. A single four-foot ground rod, driven into the ground no more than 12 inches from the base B. A ferrite-core RF choke connected between the tower and ground C. Separate eight-foot long ground rods for each tower leg, bonded to the tower and each other D. A connection between the tower base and a cold water pipe T0B08 HRLM (9-18) 2014 Technician License Course

Why should you avoid attaching an antenna to a utility pole?
A. The antenna will not work properly because of induced voltages B. The utility company will charge you an extra monthly fee C. The antenna could contact high-voltage power lines D. All of these choices are correct T0B09 HRLM (9-18) 2014 Technician License Course

What is the purpose of a safety wire through a turnbuckle used to tension guy lines?
A. Secure the guy if the turnbuckle breaks B. Prevent loosening of the guy line from vibration C. Prevent theft or vandalism D. Deter unauthorized climbing of the tower T0B13 HRLM (9 - 18)

When should members of a tower work team wear a hard hat and safety glasses? A. At all times except when climbing the tower B. At all times except when belted firmly to the tower C. At all times when any work is being done on the tower D. Only when the tower exceeds 30 feet in height T0B01 HRLM (9-19) 2014 Technician License Course

What is a good precaution to observe before climbing an antenna tower?
A. Make sure that you wear a grounded wrist strap B. Remove all tower grounding connections C. Put on a carefully inspected climbing harness (fall arrester) and safety glasses D. All of the these choices are correct T0B02 HRLM (9-19) 2014 Technician License Course

Under what circumstances is it safe to climb a tower without a helper or observer? A. When no electrical work is being performed B. When no mechanical work is being performed C. When the work being done is not more than 20 feet above the ground D. Never T0B03 HRLM (9-20) 2014 Technician License Course

What is the purpose of a gin pole?
A. To temporarily replace guy wires B. To be used in place of a safety harness C. To lift tower sections or antennas D. To provide a temporary ground T0B05 HRLM (9-20) 2014 Technician License Course

Which of the following is an important safety rule to remember when using a crank-up tower? A. This type of tower must never be painted B. This type of tower must never be grounded C. This type of tower must not be climbed unless retracted or mechanical safety locking devices have been installed D. All of these choices are correct T0B07 HRLM (9-20) 2014 Technician License Course

Technician License Course Chapter 7

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Technician License Course Chapter 7

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