fcc technician class to be used with element 2 question pool 2010-2014

FCC Technician ClassFCC Technician Classto be used with Element 2 Question Poolto be used with Element 2 Question Pool

2010-20142010-2014

Presented byPresented by

Jeff Smith W4ZHJeff Smith W4ZH

Course Philosophy Course Philosophy (Atleast do the following (Atleast do the following

#2,3,4 & 5)#2,3,4 & 5)

1. Introduce the concepts of electricity 1. Introduce the concepts of electricity and radio communicationsand radio communications

2. Do your own memory work2. Do your own memory work3. 6 - 12 hours of study will be required3. 6 - 12 hours of study will be required4.. Use of On-Line practice exam: 4.. Use of On-Line practice exam: 5. 5. http://www.qrz.com/p/testing.pl 6. 6. What is not covered: What is not covered: Material that is not on Material that is not on

the examthe exam

Materials

Highly recommended Ham Radio License Manual & FCC Rules & RegulationsBoth are available from the American Radio Relay League [ARRL.org]

MaterialsMaterials

Available from http://www.w5yi.org/ 1-800-669-9594, or Ham Radio Outlet 1-800-444-7927WWW.ARRL.ORGWWW.QRZ.com

ElmersElmersAn An ““ElmerElmer”” is an is an experienced amateur experienced amateur radio operator who radio operator who helps you get started in helps you get started in amateur radio, study for amateur radio, study for your license exams or your license exams or upgrades, or offers any upgrades, or offers any similar encouragement.similar encouragement.

ThatThat’’s US! Scott, AL & s US! Scott, AL & JeffJeff

If you donIf you don’’t have an t have an ““ElmerElmer”” to mentor you, to mentor you, ask for one. ask for one.

HAM Radio????

HAM Radio is a slang term meaning Amateur RadioJeff Smith’s Great Grandfather “coined” the Term HAM Radio to describe “Hobbyist AMateur Radio” in 1922Jeff’s Grandfather is Herbert Hoover W3ZH (Just kidding!)

The 10 Sub-ElementsThe 10 Sub-Elements

There are 396 questions in the pool. There are 35There are 396 questions in the pool. There are 35questions on the test. We will use 57 real testquestions on the test. We will use 57 real test

questions during today's course.questions during today's course.

(6) Rules(6) Rules (4) Electrical Components (4) Electrical Components

(3) Operating Procedures(3) Operating Procedures (4) Station Equipment (4) Station Equipment

(3) Propagation(3) Propagation (4) Modulation Modes(4) Modulation Modes

(2) Amateur Radio Practice(2) Amateur Radio Practice (2) Antennas & Feed lines(2) Antennas & Feed lines

(4) Electrical Principles(4) Electrical Principles (3) RF Safety(3) RF Safety

Introduction to Amateur RadioIntroduction to Amateur Radio

The Entry-The Entry-Level Level

Technician Technician License License

(Element 2 Exam)(Element 2 Exam)

Only 3 Classes ofOnly 3 Classes of ““Amateur Radio Amateur Radio LicensesLicenses””

In order of In order of privilegesprivilegesTechnicianTechnicianGeneralGeneralExtraExtra

Entry Level LicenseEntry Level License

TechnicianTechnician

Written Exam (Element 2)Written Exam (Element 2)

There is no Morse Code requirementThere is no Morse Code requirement

Provides all operating privileges Provides all operating privileges above 50 MHz,above 50 MHz, including the popular including the popular 2-meter band; all modes including 2-meter band; all modes including exotic data and satellite modesexotic data and satellite modes

WhatWhat’’s this about Morse Code?s this about Morse Code?

NONE!NONE!

Feb 23, 2007Feb 23, 2007

FCC has eliminatedFCC has eliminated

Morse Code!Morse Code!

Right: Scott Teerlinck MLI and Right: Scott Teerlinck MLI and J.Smith PNS teaching one of the J.Smith PNS teaching one of the TSA MARS Hands On Radio TSA MARS Hands On Radio Class in MLI (Very Cold)Class in MLI (Very Cold)

7373’’s s (means (means ““Best WishesBest Wishes””)) How the FCCHow the FCCDefines theDefines theAmateur Radio Amateur Radio ServiceService

Why Amateur Radio?Why Amateur Radio?

Sec. 97.1 Basis and purpose Sec. 97.1 Basis and purpose FCC RULES Part 97FCC RULES Part 97More on FCC Part 97 Rules at More on FCC Part 97 Rules at www.fcc.gov

The rules and regulations in this part are designed to The rules and regulations in this part are designed to provide an amateur radio service having a fundamental provide an amateur radio service having a fundamental purpose as expressed in the following principles:purpose as expressed in the following principles:

(a) Recognition and enhancement of the value of the (a) Recognition and enhancement of the value of the amateur service to the public as a amateur service to the public as a voluntary non-commercial voluntary non-commercial communication servicecommunication service,, particularly with respect to particularly with respect to providing providing emergency communications.emergency communications.

(b) Continuation and extension of the amateur(b) Continuation and extension of the amateur’’s proven s proven ability to contribute to the ability to contribute to the advancement of the radio artadvancement of the radio art..

(c) Encouragement and improvement of the amateur service (c) Encouragement and improvement of the amateur service through rules which provide for through rules which provide for advancing skillsadvancing skills in both the in both the communication and technical phases of the art.communication and technical phases of the art.

(d) (d) Expansion of the existing reservoirExpansion of the existing reservoir within the amateur within the amateur radio service of trained operators, technicians and electronics radio service of trained operators, technicians and electronics experts.experts.

(e) Continuation and extension of the amateur(e) Continuation and extension of the amateur’’s unique s unique ability to enhance ability to enhance international goodwillinternational goodwill..

For whom is the Amateur Radio Service For whom is the Amateur Radio Service untended?untended?A. Persons who have messages to broadcast to A. Persons who have messages to broadcast to the publicthe publicB. Persons who need communications for the B. Persons who need communications for the activities of their immediate family members, activities of their immediate family members, relatives and friendsrelatives and friendsC. Persons who need two-way communications C. Persons who need two-way communications for personal reasonsfor personal reasonsD. Persons who are interested in radio D. Persons who are interested in radio technique solely with a personal aim and witout technique solely with a personal aim and witout pecuniary interestpecuniary interest

RulesRules

CanCan’’t we all t we all just get along?just get along?

Courtesy and Common SenseCourtesy and Common Sense

With only a few exceptions that may seem With only a few exceptions that may seem silly, the rules are basically common sensesilly, the rules are basically common sense

No music (except from NASA)No music (except from NASA)

No payment, unless you are teaching in a No payment, unless you are teaching in a schoolschool

No profanity or obscenity, no exceptions!No profanity or obscenity, no exceptions!

In a life or property threatening In a life or property threatening emergency, just about anything goes.emergency, just about anything goes.

Control OperatorControl Operator

Control Operator:Control Operator: An amateur operator An amateur operator designated by the licensee of a station designated by the licensee of a station to be to be responsible for the transmissionsresponsible for the transmissions from that station to assure compliance from that station to assure compliance with the FCC rules.with the FCC rules.

Generally, that means YOUGenerally, that means YOU

You can allow another licensed amateur You can allow another licensed amateur to use your station equipment and call to use your station equipment and call signsign

Third Party CommunicationsThird Party Communications

Third Party Communications:Third Party Communications: A message A message from the control operator (1st party) of from the control operator (1st party) of an amateur station to another amateur an amateur station to another amateur station control operator (2nd party) on station control operator (2nd party) on behalf of another person (3rd party)behalf of another person (3rd party)

Be sure there is a 3rd party agreement Be sure there is a 3rd party agreement between the US and the other stationbetween the US and the other station’’s s country before handling 3rd party country before handling 3rd party traffic.traffic.

Maximum Transmitter PowerMaximum Transmitter Power

In HF Technician Bands, 200 watts In HF Technician Bands, 200 watts Peak Envelope Power (PEP)Peak Envelope Power (PEP)

In most other bands, 1500 watts In most other bands, 1500 watts PEP except for some restrictions on PEP except for some restrictions on Technician class.Technician class.

In all cases, In all cases, use the minimum use the minimum power required to make a reliable power required to make a reliable contact.contact.

Station IdentificationStation IdentificationFCC rules require amateur stations to FCC rules require amateur stations to identify every identify every 10 minutes10 minutes and at the and at the end of transmissionsend of transmissionsDo not make unidentified Do not make unidentified transmissionstransmissions, (with some , (with some exceptions, like for Radio Controlled exceptions, like for Radio Controlled toys.)toys.)

Note: More about station identification will be Note: More about station identification will be covered under covered under ““Operating ProceduresOperating Procedures””

About Your Call signAbout Your Call sign

Amateur call signs Amateur call signs in the USin the US begin with begin with the letters the letters A, K, N or WA, K, N or WEach call sign contains a Each call sign contains a one-digit one-digit numbernumber, zero through nine , zero through nine (0 – 9)(0 – 9)The arrangement of letters indicates The arrangement of letters indicates license class, with shorter calls going to license class, with shorter calls going to higher license classes (higher license classes (W3ABCW3ABC is legit!) is legit!)Licenses are good for Licenses are good for 10 years10 yearsThere is a There is a 2 year grace period for 2 year grace period for renewalrenewal

ITU “International Telecommunications Union” Region 2 is North America!!!”

Technician class - Band PrivilegesTechnician class - Band Privileges

All amateur bands All amateur bands 50 MHz and 50 MHz and aboveabove

All available modesAll available modes

No power restrictionsNo power restrictions

NO PRIVILEGES ON FREQUENCIES NO PRIVILEGES ON FREQUENCIES BELOW 50 MHz!BELOW 50 MHz!

ARRL CALL DISTRICT MAP

Technician with Morse CodeTechnician with Morse Code

NEWINGTON, CT, NEWINGTON, CT, Feb 23, 2007Feb 23, 2007 -- A new -- A new Amateur Radio Service regime now is in Amateur Radio Service regime now is in place. place. The requirement to demonstrate The requirement to demonstrate Morse code proficiency to gain HF Morse code proficiency to gain HF privileges officially disappeared from the privileges officially disappeared from the FCC's Part 97 rulesFCC's Part 97 rules today at 12:01 AM today at 12:01 AM Eastern Time. At the same time, some Eastern Time. At the same time, some 200,000 Technician licensees without 200,000 Technician licensees without Morse code exam credit acquired HF Morse code exam credit acquired HF privileges equivalent to those available privileges equivalent to those available to Novice licensees.to Novice licensees.

Former Novice-class Band PrivilegesFormer Novice-class Band Privileges

Band Freq. In MHz Mode Power 80 m 3.675 - 3.725 cw 200 W 40 m 7.100 - 7.150 cw 200 W 15 m 21.100 - 21.200 cw 200 W 10 m 28.100 - 28.300

28.300 - 28.500 cw ssb

200 W 200 W

1.25 m 222.0 - 225.0 all modes 25 W 23 cm 1270 - 1295 all modes 5 W

Amateur Radio Frequency Bands

The Relationship of Frequency and The Relationship of Frequency and WavelengthWavelength

The distance a radio wave travels in one cycle is called The distance a radio wave travels in one cycle is called wavelength.wavelength.

One WavelengthOne Wavelength

timetime

One CycleOne Cycle

Wavelength FormulaWavelength Formula

To convert from frequency to To convert from frequency to wavelength also this tells you wavelength also this tells you what what BandBand you are on: you are on:

Wavelength and Frequency are Wavelength and Frequency are Inversely Proportional. As one goes Inversely Proportional. As one goes up, the other must go down.up, the other must go down.

300300freq (freq (MHzMHz))Wavelength/Band Wavelength/Band

On what amateur bands will you On what amateur bands will you find these frequencies?find these frequencies?

3.975 3.975 MHz _______ meter bandMHz _______ meter band

7,233 7,233 kHz _______ meter bandkHz _______ meter band

80/7580/751515

2240401010

What is an amateur station control point?What is an amateur station control point?

A. The location of the stationA. The location of the station’’s s transmitting antennatransmitting antennaB. The location of the station transmitting B. The location of the station transmitting apparatus apparatus C. The location in which the control C. The location in which the control operation function is performedoperation function is performedD. The mailing address of the station D. The mailing address of the station licenseelicensee

How soon may you operate a transmitter on anHow soon may you operate a transmitter on anAmateur radio service frequency after you pass Amateur radio service frequency after you pass the examination required for you first amateur the examination required for you first amateur radio license?radio license?

A. ImmediatelyA. ImmediatelyB. 30 days after the test dateB. 30 days after the test dateC. As soon as your name and call sign appear C. As soon as your name and call sign appear in the FCCin the FCC’’s ULS databases ULS databaseD. You must wait until you receive your license D. You must wait until you receive your license in the mail from the FCCin the mail from the FCC

Which of the following types of Which of the following types of transmissionstransmissionsAre prohibited?Are prohibited?

A. Transmissions that contain obscene or A. Transmissions that contain obscene or indecent words or languageindecent words or languageB. Transmissions to establish one-way B. Transmissions to establish one-way communicationscommunicationsC. Transmission to establish model C. Transmission to establish model aircraft controlaircraft controlD. Transmissions for third party D. Transmissions for third party communicationscommunications

What are the frequency limits of the VHF What are the frequency limits of the VHF spectrum?spectrum?

A. 30 - 300 kHzA. 30 - 300 kHz

B. 30 - 300 MHzB. 30 - 300 MHz

C. 300 - 3000 kHzC. 300 - 3000 kHz

D. 300 - 3000 MHzD. 300 - 3000 MHz

Which of the following is an acceptable Which of the following is an acceptable language for use for station identification language for use for station identification when operating in a phone sub-band? when operating in a phone sub-band?

A. Any language recognized by the United A. Any language recognized by the United

NationsNations

B. Any language recognized by the ITUB. Any language recognized by the ITU

C. The English languageC. The English language

D. English, French or SpanishD. English, French or Spanish

What amount of transmitter power What amount of transmitter power should be used on the uplink frequency should be used on the uplink frequency of an amateur satellite or space station?of an amateur satellite or space station?

A. The maximum power of your A. The maximum power of your

transmittertransmitter

B. The minimum amount of power B. The minimum amount of power

needed to complete the contactneeded to complete the contact

C. No more than half the rating of your C. No more than half the rating of your

linear amplifierlinear amplifier

D. No more than 1 wattD. No more than 1 watt

What is the maximum power allowed when What is the maximum power allowed when transmitting telecommand signals to radio transmitting telecommand signals to radio controlled models?controlled models?

A. 500 milliwattsA. 500 milliwatts

B. 1 wattB. 1 watt

C. 25 wattsC. 25 watts

D. 15-- wattsD. 15-- watts

Operating ProceduresOperating ProceduresWork the Work the

neighborhood neighborhood on the on the

repeater. repeater. Work the Work the

world on HFworld on HF

Right is a Right is a ProtoType ProtoType ““TSA TSA

Go Kit by J. Smith Go Kit by J. Smith PNS for PNS for

HF/VHF/UHF HF/VHF/UHF Voice and HF Voice and HF Email & will Email & will

deliver 100 watts deliver 100 watts

RepeatersRepeaters

Repeater:Repeater: An amateur station that An amateur station that simultaneously retransmits the simultaneously retransmits the transmission of another amateur transmission of another amateur station on a different channel or station on a different channel or channelschannels

Why? A powerful repeater transmitter Why? A powerful repeater transmitter located at altitude greatly increases located at altitude greatly increases the effective range of weaker hand the effective range of weaker hand held and mobile radios.held and mobile radios.

RepeatersRepeatersIn order to use a repeater, you mustIn order to use a repeater, you mustfirst know the repeaterfirst know the repeater’’s transmits transmitfrequency and offset. The offset isfrequency and offset. The offset isthe difference in the repeaterthe difference in the repeater’’sstransmit and receive frequencies.transmit and receive frequencies.

Most modern radios will calculateMost modern radios will calculatethe offset for you.the offset for you.

60 miles60 miles

Output FreqOutput Freq145.21 MHz145.21 MHzInput FreqInput Freq

144.61 MHz144.61 MHzOffsetOffset

- 600 kHz- 600 kHz

A Repeater in ActionA Repeater in Action

RepeatersRepeaters

Squelch:Squelch: A squelch circuit keeps the A squelch circuit keeps the radio speaker turned off until sufficient radio speaker turned off until sufficient RF energy is present at the receiver. RF energy is present at the receiver. This keeps the radio quiet until a signal This keeps the radio quiet until a signal is received. In a repeater, the squelch is received. In a repeater, the squelch also turns on the transmitter.also turns on the transmitter.

In some areas, there is such a level of In some areas, there is such a level of RF noise the squelch circuit is constantly RF noise the squelch circuit is constantly opening the audio. What do we do?opening the audio. What do we do?

RepeatersRepeaters

PL Tones:PL Tones: Developed by Motorola, Privacy Developed by Motorola, Privacy Lock Lock (PL) tones(PL) tones, or Continuous Tone Coded , or Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System (CTCSS) tones are sub-Squelch System (CTCSS) tones are sub-audible tones sent by your radio to the audible tones sent by your radio to the repeater along with your regular repeater along with your regular transmission.transmission.On aOn a PL PL equipped repeater, there must be equipped repeater, there must be enough signal strength to open the enough signal strength to open the squelch, the PL tone must be present and squelch, the PL tone must be present and on the correct frequency, before the on the correct frequency, before the repeater will retransmit a signal.repeater will retransmit a signal.

RepeatersRepeaters

At the end of each transmission At the end of each transmission through a repeater, you will hear a through a repeater, you will hear a ““roger beeproger beep”” or or ““courtesy tonecourtesy tone”” (a (a short beep, or series of beeps).short beep, or series of beeps).Do not begin your transmission Do not begin your transmission until after you hear the courtesy until after you hear the courtesy beep.beep.Do not confuse the roger beep with Do not confuse the roger beep with the PL tone.the PL tone.

Repeater OperationsRepeater OperationsListenListen! If nobody is there, then the repeater is ! If nobody is there, then the repeater is not in use. Give your call sign once.not in use. Give your call sign once.If the repeater is busy, wait for a break and give If the repeater is busy, wait for a break and give your call sign ONCE.your call sign ONCE.DO NOT DO NOT ““KER-CHUNKKER-CHUNK”” THE REPEATER THE REPEATERObserve rotation, if there is one.Observe rotation, if there is one.When calling another station, always give the When calling another station, always give the other stationother station’’s call sign first, then yours.s call sign first, then yours.ID every 10 minutes and at the end of the ID every 10 minutes and at the end of the conversationconversation (QSO), you need not ID after every (QSO), you need not ID after every exchange.exchange.

AutopatchAutopatch

Amateurs can use the repeaterAmateurs can use the repeater’’ss““autopatchautopatch”” to connect to the public to connect to the public

telephone network via radio.telephone network via radio.

AutopatchAutopatch

You can make phone calls from your radioYou can make phone calls from your radio

All repeaters are required to have a 3 All repeaters are required to have a 3 minute transmit time-out feature. This minute transmit time-out feature. This applies to the autopatch as well.applies to the autopatch as well.

Do not abuse the autopatch.Do not abuse the autopatch.

Use judgment calling 911.Use judgment calling 911.

Use of autopatch may be subject to Use of autopatch may be subject to payment of dues to the repeater owner or payment of dues to the repeater owner or club.club.

The World of High Frequency The World of High Frequency (HF)(HF)

These are the These are the traditional world wide bands traditional world wide bands

people usually associate with people usually associate with ham radio.ham radio.

HF/Single Sideband (SSB) OperationsHF/Single Sideband (SSB) Operations

When trying to find a clear frequency, When trying to find a clear frequency, LISTEN LISTEN FIRSTFIRST, then ask, , then ask, ““Is this frequency in use? <call Is this frequency in use? <call sign>.sign>.””If the frequency is clear, then call If the frequency is clear, then call ““CQCQ”” 3 x 3 - 3 x 3 - Call CQ three times followed by your call sign Call CQ three times followed by your call sign phonetically three times, listen, repeat.phonetically three times, listen, repeat.When calling another station, always give the When calling another station, always give the other stationother station’’s call sign first, then yours.s call sign first, then yours.ID every 10 minutes and at the end of the QSO, ID every 10 minutes and at the end of the QSO, you need not ID after every exchange.you need not ID after every exchange.Give stations you contact honest signal reports.Give stations you contact honest signal reports.

The RST Reporting SystemThe RST Reporting System

The RST system is a quick way amateurs The RST system is a quick way amateurs use to describe a received signal.use to describe a received signal.

RReadabilityeadability 1 = Poor 1 = Poor 55 = Good = Good

SSignal Strengthignal Strength 1 = Poor 1 = Poor 99 = Good = Good

TTone (CW only)one (CW only) 1 = Poor 9 = Good1 = Poor 9 = Good

Note: Do not use the RST system on Note: Do not use the RST system on repeaters.repeaters.

Q-signalsQ-signals

Q-signals are a kind of Q-signals are a kind of ““short-handshort-hand”” hams use to communicate quickly, hams use to communicate quickly, especially via Morse Code.especially via Morse Code.

Most Q-signals can be used as a Most Q-signals can be used as a question or a statement: question or a statement: ““Can you QSY to 7.250?Can you QSY to 7.250?”” (change/move)(change/move)

““I will QSY to 7.250I will QSY to 7.250”” (change/move)(change/move)

Q-signalsQ-signals

QRM (man made interference)

“Do you hear any QRM?”“There is QRM on the Freq”

Q-SignalsQ-Signals

The use of Q-signals began in the The use of Q-signals began in the days of the telegraph, where days of the telegraph, where operators developed a way to operators developed a way to exchange commonly transmitted exchange commonly transmitted information (location, output power, information (location, output power, etc.) more efficiently.etc.) more efficiently.

Some common Q-signals are on the Some common Q-signals are on the next slide…next slide…

Q-SignalsQ-SignalsQRMQRM - Is my transmission being interfered with?/Something is - Is my transmission being interfered with?/Something is

causing interferencecausing interferenceQRN - Are you troubled by static/noise?/I am troubled by QRN - Are you troubled by static/noise?/I am troubled by

static/noise.static/noise.QRO - Shall I increase transmitter power?/I am running high QRO - Shall I increase transmitter power?/I am running high

power.power.QRP - Shall I decrease transmitter power?/I am running low QRP - Shall I decrease transmitter power?/I am running low

power.power.QRQ - Shall I send faster?/Please send faster.QRQ - Shall I send faster?/Please send faster.QRS - Shall I send slower?/Please send slowerQRS - Shall I send slower?/Please send slowerQRT - Shall I stop sending?/I am going off the air.QRT - Shall I stop sending?/I am going off the air.QRZ - Who is calling me?QRZ - Who is calling me?QSB - Are my signals fading?/Your signal is fading.QSB - Are my signals fading?/Your signal is fading.QSL - Can you acknowledge receipt?/I received the message.QSL - Can you acknowledge receipt?/I received the message.QSO - Can you communicate with ____ direct?/I will communicate QSO - Can you communicate with ____ direct?/I will communicate

with ________ directly.with ________ directly.QSYQSY - Shall I change frequency?/I am changing frequency to - Shall I change frequency?/I am changing frequency to

_______._______.QTH - What is your location?/My location is _______.QTH - What is your location?/My location is _______.

QSL CardsQSL Cards

A QSL card is a written confirmation of contact between two amateur radio stations.

ITU Phonetic AlphabetITU Phonetic Alphabet

A Alpha 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

ITU Phonetic AlphabetITU Phonetic Alphabet

Used for accurate copy when band Used for accurate copy when band conditions are noisy or crowded.conditions are noisy or crowded.

Always use the proper words, they Always use the proper words, they were carefully selected so no two were carefully selected so no two sound alike. sound alike.

Avoid being cute.Avoid being cute.

Generally not needed on repeaters.Generally not needed on repeaters.

Some No-NoSome No-No’’ssDonDon’’t use CB slang or 10-codes!!!!t use CB slang or 10-codes!!!!DonDon’’t interrupt conversations (QSOt interrupt conversations (QSO’’s) in s) in progress.progress.DonDon’’t tune up on the air, use a dummy load.t tune up on the air, use a dummy load.Avoid subject matter that could be Avoid subject matter that could be offensive.offensive.DonDon’’t forget your manners – be polite.t forget your manners – be polite.DonDon’’t whine and complain.t whine and complain.DonDon’’t forget that the whole world can hear t forget that the whole world can hear you!you!

What is the term used to describe an What is the term used to describe an amateur station that is transmitting and amateur station that is transmitting and receiving on the same frequency?receiving on the same frequency?

A. Full duplex communicationA. Full duplex communication

B. Diplex communicationB. Diplex communication

C. Simplex communicationC. Simplex communication

D. Half duplex communicationD. Half duplex communication

What is the FCC Part 97 definition of a What is the FCC Part 97 definition of a space station?space station?

A. Any multi-stage satelliteA. Any multi-stage satelliteB. An Earth satellite that carries one or B. An Earth satellite that carries one or more amateur operatorsmore amateur operatorsC. An amateur station located less than C. An amateur station located less than 2525 km above the Earthkm above the Earth’’s surfaces surfaceD. An amateur station located more than D. An amateur station located more than 50 km above the Earth50 km above the Earth’’s surface s surface

Which of the following meets the FCC Which of the following meets the FCC definition of harmful interference?definition of harmful interference?

A. Radio transmissions that annoy users of a A. Radio transmissions that annoy users of a

repeaterrepeater

B. Unwanted radio transmissions that cause B. Unwanted radio transmissions that cause

costly harm to radio station apparatus costly harm to radio station apparatus

C. That which seriously degrades, obstructs or C. That which seriously degrades, obstructs or

repeatly interrupts a radio communication repeatly interrupts a radio communication

service operating in accorddance with Radio service operating in accorddance with Radio

RegulationsRegulations

D. Static from lightning storms D. Static from lightning storms

What is the term for an FCC-issued What is the term for an FCC-issued

primary station/operator license grant?primary station/operator license grant?

A. Five yearsA. Five years

B. LifeB. Life

C. Ten yearsC. Ten years

D. Twenty yearsD. Twenty years

What is the most common repeater What is the most common repeater freguency offset in the 2 meter band?freguency offset in the 2 meter band?

A. plus 500 khzA. plus 500 khzB. Plus or minus 600 khzB. Plus or minus 600 khzC. Minus 500 khzC. Minus 500 khzD. Only plus 600 khzD. Only plus 600 khz

What is an appropriate way to call What is an appropriate way to call another station on a repeater if you know another station on a repeater if you know the other stationthe other station’’s call sign?s call sign?

A. Say A. Say ““break, breakbreak, break”” then say the then say the stationstation’’s call signs call signB. Say the stationB. Say the station’’s call sign then identify s call sign then identify your call signyour call signC. Say C. Say ““CQCQ”” three times then the other three times then the other stationstation’’s call signs call signD. Wait for the station to call D. Wait for the station to call ““CQCQ”” then then answer itanswer it

INTERMISSION

PropagationPropagationHow radio waves get How radio waves get

there…there…and back.and back.

Right is Jeff Cram KI4VZQRight is Jeff Cram KI4VZQtesting the TSA Network Satellitetesting the TSA Network Satellite

HF PropagationHF Propagation

It is the unpredictable nature of HF It is the unpredictable nature of HF propagation that makes the HF bands propagation that makes the HF bands so much fun.so much fun.

Long distance communication (DX) is Long distance communication (DX) is accomplished by the reflection of accomplished by the reflection of radio waves by the ionosphere, the radio waves by the ionosphere, the upper layers of the atmosphere upper layers of the atmosphere ionized by ultraviolet radiation from ionized by ultraviolet radiation from the sun.the sun.

Ionospheric ProtectionIonospheric Protection

The ionosphere and magnetosphere protect us from The ionosphere and magnetosphere protect us from harmful radiation from the sun.harmful radiation from the sun.

How the Ionosphere is FormedHow the Ionosphere is Formed

The IonosphereThe Ionosphere

F2 Layer (Reflecting)F2 Layer (Reflecting)F1 Layer (Reflecting)F1 Layer (Reflecting)E Layer (Reflecting)E Layer (Reflecting)D Layer (Absorbing)D Layer (Absorbing)

Layers of the IonosphereLayers of the Ionosphere

D Layer, Absorbing, Disappears at nightD Layer, Absorbing, Disappears at night

E Layer, Reflecting, Disappears at nightE Layer, Reflecting, Disappears at night

F1 and F2 Layers, Reflecting, combine F1 and F2 Layers, Reflecting, combine into a single F layer at night.into a single F layer at night.

The reflective layers are responsible for The reflective layers are responsible for sky wave propagation.sky wave propagation.

Line of Sight PropagationLine of Sight Propagation

WorldwideWorldwidecommunicationscommunicationsby line of sight isby line of sight isnot possible duenot possible dueto the curvatureto the curvatureof the Earthof the Earth

Sky wave PropagationSky wave Propagation

Over the horizonOver the horizoncommunication iscommunication ispossible by sky-possible by sky-wave propagation,wave propagation,bouncing signalsbouncing signalsoff the ionosphere.off the ionosphere.

SunspotsSunspots

Sunspots peak during 11-year cycles.The higher the sunspot count, the more the atmosphere is ionized.Thus, higher sunspot counts support a higher Maximum Usable Frequency (MUF).

VHF/UHF PropagationVHF/UHF PropagationGenerally line of sightGenerally line of sightCan be blocked by and/or reflected off Can be blocked by and/or reflected off mountains and large buildings – even the mountains and large buildings – even the Moon!Moon!Temperature inversions in the troposphere Temperature inversions in the troposphere can cause can cause ““ducting,ducting,”” and a path will open and a path will open briefly for 500 - 600 miles.briefly for 500 - 600 miles.VHF/UHF will penetrate the Ionosphere, VHF/UHF will penetrate the Ionosphere, making these frequencies ideal for satellite, making these frequencies ideal for satellite, and Earth-Moon-Earth (EME) operations.and Earth-Moon-Earth (EME) operations.

VHF/UHF signalsVHF/UHF signalstravel only in straighttravel only in straightlines. We call thislines. We call this““line of sightline of sight””propagationpropagation

Direct communications are notDirect communications are notpossible because of the mountainpossible because of the mountain

VHF/UHF PropagationVHF/UHF Propagation

What is the cause or irregular fading of What is the cause or irregular fading of signals from distant stations during times signals from distant stations during times of generally good reception?of generally good reception?

A. Absorption of signals by the A. Absorption of signals by the ““DD ”” layer of the ionosphere layer of the ionosphere

B. Absorption of signals by the B. Absorption of signals by the ““EE”” layer of the ionosphere layer of the ionosphere

C. Random combining of signals arriving via different path C. Random combining of signals arriving via different path

lengthslengths

D. Intermodulation distortion in local receiver D. Intermodulation distortion in local receiver

What part of the atmosphere enables the What part of the atmosphere enables the propagation of radio signals around the propagation of radio signals around the world?world?

A. The stratosphereA. The stratosphere

B. The troposphereB. The troposphere

C. The ionosphereC. The ionosphere

D. The magnetosphereD. The magnetosphere

How does the wavelength of a radio wave How does the wavelength of a radio wave relate to its frequency?relate to its frequency?

A. The wavelength gets longer as its frequency A. The wavelength gets longer as its frequency

increasesincreases

B. The wavelength gets shorter as the frequency B. The wavelength gets shorter as the frequency

increasesincreases

C. There is no relationship between wavelength C. There is no relationship between wavelength

and frequencyand frequency

D. The wavelength depends on the bandwidth of D. The wavelength depends on the bandwidth of

the signalthe signal

What property of radio waves is often What property of radio waves is often used to identify the different frequency used to identify the different frequency bands?bands?

A. The approximate wavelengthA. The approximate wavelength

B. The magnet intensity of wavesB. The magnet intensity of waves

C. The times it takes the waves to travel C. The times it takes the waves to travel

one mileone mile

D. The voltage standing wave ratio of D. The voltage standing wave ratio of

waveswaves

What is the formula for converting What is the formula for converting frequency to wavelength in meters?frequency to wavelength in meters? A. Wavelength in meters equals A. Wavelength in meters equals frequency in hertz multiplied by 300frequency in hertz multiplied by 300B. Wavelength in meters equals B. Wavelength in meters equals frequency in hertz divided by 300frequency in hertz divided by 300C. Wavelength in meters equals C. Wavelength in meters equals frequency in megahertz divided by 300frequency in megahertz divided by 300D. Wavelength in meters equals 300 D. Wavelength in meters equals 300 divided by frequency in megahertzdivided by frequency in megahertz

Amateur Radio PracticeAmateur Radio PracticeDoing Doing things things right.right.

Right: KC9OKC Right: KC9OKC Scott Teerlinck, Scott Teerlinck,

Moline, ILMoline, IL

SafetySafety

Amateur Radio is a relatively safe hobby.Amateur Radio is a relatively safe hobby.There are only a few ways to get hurt or There are only a few ways to get hurt or

killed being a ham radio operator:killed being a ham radio operator:1. Electrocute yourself.1. Electrocute yourself.2. Fall off a tower, or the inverse, have 2. Fall off a tower, or the inverse, have

someone/something fall on you fromsomeone/something fall on you froma tower.a tower.

3. Slowly cook yourself with RF energy.3. Slowly cook yourself with RF energy.

It Just Kills Me...It Just Kills Me...

People have been killed by as little as 30 People have been killed by as little as 30 Volts.Volts.As little as 1/10 As little as 1/10 (100 milliamps)(100 milliamps) of an amp can of an amp can be fatal.be fatal.AC is more dangerous than DC, as it AC is more dangerous than DC, as it interferes with heart rhythm.interferes with heart rhythm.The path electric current takes across the The path electric current takes across the body is important. Therefore, always body is important. Therefore, always keep one hand in your pocket when keep one hand in your pocket when working near dangerous voltages.working near dangerous voltages.

Ground EverythingGround Everything

High Voltage SafetyHigh Voltage Safety

Ground all the equipment cases.Ground all the equipment cases.Make sure your power outlets are Make sure your power outlets are grounded.grounded.Do not defeat safety interlocks on Do not defeat safety interlocks on equipment that contain lethal equipment that contain lethal voltages.voltages.Remember, capacitors can store a Remember, capacitors can store a charge for a really long time. Care charge for a really long time. Care should be taken to discharge them.should be taken to discharge them.

Antenna SafetyAntenna SafetyDonDon’’t put antennas. where they t put antennas. where they could fall across power linescould fall across power linesDonDon’’t climb towers without a safety t climb towers without a safety belt.belt.DonDon’’t do tower work without a t do tower work without a ground crew.ground crew.If youIf you’’re working under the tower, re working under the tower, wear a hard hat.wear a hard hat.

LightningLightning

Ground antennas when not in use.Ground antennas when not in use.Ground the tower structure itself.Ground the tower structure itself.Ground rods should be copper or Ground rods should be copper or copper clad steel and 8 ft. long.copper clad steel and 8 ft. long.Disconnect AC power mains during Disconnect AC power mains during storms, or use line conditioners or storms, or use line conditioners or surge suppressors.surge suppressors.GET OFF THE AIR DURING SEVERE GET OFF THE AIR DURING SEVERE STORMS!!STORMS!!

117 Volt AC Outlet117 Volt AC Outlet

GroundGround

NeutralNeutral

For safety and fireFor safety and fireprotection, eachprotection, eachoutlet in your homeoutlet in your homeshould be wiredshould be wiredexactly this way.exactly this way.Match the coloredMatch the coloredwires to the coloredwires to the coloredscrews on thescrews on theoutlet.outlet.

Multimeter (Analog)Multimeter (Analog)These meters will measureThese meters will measureVoltage, Resistance andVoltage, Resistance andCurrent.Current.

The handiest piece of testThe handiest piece of testequipment any ham couldequipment any ham couldown.own.

Digital MultimeterDigital MultimeterThese modern multimeters areThese modern multimeters areeasier to use and harder to breakeasier to use and harder to breakthan older analog meters.than older analog meters.

The higher input impedanceThe higher input impedancemakes them more accurate.makes them more accurate.

Many include extra features likeMany include extra features likediode and transistor test functions.diode and transistor test functions.

S - MeterS - MeterThe S - meter givesThe S - meter givesa relative signal strengtha relative signal strengthreading of a receivedreading of a receivedsignal.signal.

No manufacturer claimsNo manufacturer claimstheir S - meters aretheir S - meters arecalibrated.calibrated.

SWR MeterSWR Meter

Measures transmitterMeasures transmitteroutput power andoutput power andreflected power fromreflected power fromthe antenna systemthe antenna system

ReflectometerReflectometer

The reflectometerThe reflectometeris a fancy SWR is a fancy SWR meter showing meter showing forward power, forward power, reflected powerreflected powerand SWR all at and SWR all at once.once.They require no They require no setsetup or calibration up or calibration to to use.use.

Dummy LoadDummy LoadUse a dummy load to Use a dummy load to tune your transmitter.tune your transmitter.This is good practiceThis is good practiceas it reduces QRM andas it reduces QRM andgives the transmittergives the transmittera perfect 50 ohm load. a perfect 50 ohm load.

Note: Dummy loadsNote: Dummy loadsget hot.get hot.

Low-Pass FilterLow-Pass FilterA low-pass filterA low-pass filtergoes between yourgoes between yourtransmitter and transmitter and antenna. It removesantenna. It removesharmonic radiationharmonic radiationfrom your signals.from your signals.

Your neighborsYour neighbors’’ TV TVsets will thank you.sets will thank you.

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 baseB. A ferrite-core RF choke connected between the tower and groundC. Separate eight-foot long ground rods for each tower leg, bonded to the tower and each otherD. A connection between the tower base and a cold water pipe

What reading on an SWR meter indicates a perfect impedance match between the antenna and the feedline?

A. 2 to 1B. 1 to 3C. 1 to 1D. 10 to 1

Where must a filter be installed to reduce harmonic emissions?

A. Between the transmitter and the antennaB. Between the receiver and the transmitterC. At the station power supplyD. At the microphone

What is connected to the green wire in a three-wire electrical AC plug?

A. NeutralB. HotC. Safety groundD. The white wire

Which of the following might damage a multimeter?

A. Measuring a voltage too small for the chosen scaleB. Leaving the meter in the milliamps position overnightC. Attempting to measure voltage when using the resistance settingD. Not allowing it to warm up properly

Electrical PrinciplesElectrical PrinciplesA battery, A battery, a bulb and a bulb and some some wire…wire…and a little and a little math.math.

Right is W4ZH Jeff Right is W4ZH Jeff Smith Smith ““Go KitGo Kit”” Prototype in a Prototype in a Car/TruckCar/Truck

Units of MeasurementUnits of Measurement

HertzHertz Frequency (cycles per second)Frequency (cycles per second)

VoltsVolts Electromotive Force Electromotive Force

AmpsAmps Electrical CurrentElectrical Current

OhmsOhms Resistance (to current flow)Resistance (to current flow)

FaradsFarads CapacitanceCapacitance

HenriesHenries InductorsInductors

Watts Watts Power (the Power (the ‘‘workwork’’ being being done)done)

Ohms LawOhms Law

Ohms Law is applicable to all Ohms Law is applicable to all electrical circuits.electrical circuits.Ohms Law is a mathematical Ohms Law is a mathematical expression of the relationship expression of the relationship between Voltage (EMF), Current between Voltage (EMF), Current (the flow of electrons in a (the flow of electrons in a circuit), and Resistance (to circuit), and Resistance (to current flow).current flow).Expressed as E = I x RExpressed as E = I x R

Voltage and Current?Voltage and Current?++

It is possible to have voltage without It is possible to have voltage without current, as incurrent, as inthe case of a battery by itself. In order to the case of a battery by itself. In order to have current, there must be an electrical have current, there must be an electrical path (circuit) from the positive to the path (circuit) from the positive to the negative terminal of the voltage source.negative terminal of the voltage source.

EE II RR

Ohms LawOhms Law

II RRResistanceResistance

to current flowto current flowOHMSOHMS

The flow ofThe flow ofelectronselectronsAMPERESAMPERES

Electromotive Force = VOLTSElectromotive Force = VOLTS

Ohms LawOhms Law

4 4 ohmsohms3 3 ohmsohms2 2 ohmsohms

12 volts12 volts

As we substitute the values shown, what As we substitute the values shown, what happens to the current flow in the circuit?happens to the current flow in the circuit?

E/R = IE/R = I

12/4 = 312/4 = 3 12/3 = 412/3 = 4 12/2 = 612/2 = 6

PowerPower

PPII EE ElectromotiveElectromotive

ForceForceVOLTSVOLTS

The flow ofThe flow ofelectronselectronsAMPERESAMPERES

Energy Expended, in WATTSEnergy Expended, in WATTS

Volts, Amps and WattsVolts, Amps and Watts

4 ohms4 ohms12 volts12 volts

The current in this circuit = _________ AmpsThe current in this circuit = _________ Amps

The power in this circuit = _________ WattsThe power in this circuit = _________ Watts

System of Metric UnitsSystem of Metric Units

gigagiga GG 101099 1,000,000,0001,000,000,000

megamega MM 101066 1,000,0001,000,000

kilokilo KK 101033 1,0001,000

basic unitbasic unit 101000 11

millimilli mm 1010-3-3 0.0010.001

micromicro uu 1010-6-6 0.00000010.0000001

picopico pp 1010-12-12 0.0000000000010.000000000001

Which is a commonly accepted value for the lowest voltage that can cause a dangerous electric shock?

A. 12 voltsB. 30 voltsC. 120 voltsD. 300 volts

If an ammeter calibrated in amperes is used to measure a 3000-milliampere current, what reading would it show?

A. 0.003 amperesB. 0.3 amperesC. 3 amperesD. 3,000,000 amperes

Which of the following is a good electrical conductor?

A.GlassB.WoodC.CopperD.Rubber

Which instrument would you use to measure electric potential or electromotive force?

A. An ammeterB. A voltmeterC. A wavemeterD. An ohmmeter

Electrical power is measured in which of the following units?

A.VoltsB.WattsC.OhmsD.Amperes

Circuit ComponentsCircuit Components

The stuff radios are The stuff radios are made of.made of.

Right: Scorpion Antenna goes Right: Scorpion Antenna goes with the with the ““Go KitGo Kit””

ResistorsResistors

4 4 ohmsohms

12 12 voltsvolts

As we have seen, resistors limit the flow of current.As we have seen, resistors limit the flow of current.

3 Amps3 Amps

Adding ResistorsAdding ResistorsIn Series circuits:In Series circuits:

Rt = R1 + R2 + R3…Rt = R1 + R2 + R3…

In Parallel circuits:In Parallel circuits:

Rt = Rt = R1 x R1 x R2R2R1+R2R1+R2

ResistorsResistors

Resistor SummaryResistor Summary

Resistors oppose (resist) the flow Resistors oppose (resist) the flow of current.of current.

Resistors add in series, Resistors add in series, ““Product Product over the Sumover the Sum”” in parallel. in parallel.

Resistors vary in size and material Resistors vary in size and material according to heat dissipation.according to heat dissipation.

The Unit of Measure is the Ohm.The Unit of Measure is the Ohm.

DC and ACDC and AC

Direct Direct CurrentCurrent

Alternating Alternating CurrentCurrent

A Word about MagnetsA Word about Magnets

Remember:Remember:

1. Like charges repel and1. Like charges repel and opposite charges attractopposite charges attract

2. We can induce a current2. We can induce a current in a conductor passingin a conductor passing through a magneticthrough a magnetic field.field.

InductorsInductors

InductorsInductorsAnytime current flowsAnytime current flowsthrough a conductor,through a conductor,a magnetic field isa magnetic field iscreated around thatcreated around thatconductor.conductor.

InductorsInductorsIf we form the conductorIf we form the conductorinto a coil shape, we caninto a coil shape, we cangreatly intensify the greatly intensify the strength of the magneticstrength of the magneticfield.field.

We can store electricalWe can store electricalenergy in this magneticenergy in this magneticfield.field.

InductorsInductors

When we close the switch,When we close the switch,current flows through thecurrent flows through theinductor, building ainductor, building amagnetic field.magnetic field.

When we open the switch,When we open the switch,the field collapses, inducingthe field collapses, inducinga current in the inductor.a current in the inductor.

InductorsInductors

The value of an inductor can be varied by:The value of an inductor can be varied by:

Coil SpacingCoil Spacing

Coil DiameterCoil Diameter

Number of TurnsNumber of Turns

Core MaterialCore Material

The Unit of Measure is the Henry.The Unit of Measure is the Henry.

Adding InductorsAdding Inductors

In Series circuits:In Series circuits:

Lt = L1 + L2 + L3…Lt = L1 + L2 + L3…

In Parallel circuits:In Parallel circuits:

Lt = Lt = L1 x L1 x L2L2L1 + L1 + L2L2

Inductor SummaryInductor Summary

Inductors store electrical energy in Inductors store electrical energy in their magnetic fields.their magnetic fields.Inductors are additive in series, Inductors are additive in series, ““product over the sumproduct over the sum”” in parallel. in parallel.Inductors tend to pass DC currents Inductors tend to pass DC currents and block AC currents.and block AC currents.The unit of measurement for The unit of measurement for inductors is the Henry.inductors is the Henry.

CapacitorsCapacitors

CapacitorsCapacitors A capacitor is made byA capacitor is made byseparating two conductiveseparating two conductiveplates by an insulator orplates by an insulator ordielectric.dielectric.

Capacitors store electricalCapacitors store electricalenergy in an electrostaticenergy in an electrostaticfield.field.

Capacitors tend to blockCapacitors tend to blockDC and pass ACDC and pass AC

CapacitorsCapacitorsRemember: Like Remember: Like chargeschargesrepel. Current will flowrepel. Current will flowonly until one plate isonly until one plate isfull of negatively full of negatively chargedchargedelectrons the other electrons the other hashasalmost none. This almost none. This createscreatesa difference of a difference of potentialpotential(a voltage) across the (a voltage) across the plates almost like a plates almost like a battery.battery.

WARNINGWARNING!WARNINGWARNING!

CAPACITORS CAN HOLDCAPACITORS CAN HOLD

A CHARGEA CHARGE

FOR QUITE SOME TIME.FOR QUITE SOME TIME.

TheyThey would be very happy to bite you.would be very happy to bite you.

Intermission

CapacitorsCapacitors

The Value of a capacitor can be varied by:The Value of a capacitor can be varied by:

Increasing/decreasing the plate areaIncreasing/decreasing the plate area

Increasing/decreasing the plate spacingIncreasing/decreasing the plate spacing

Type of dielectric materialType of dielectric material

The Unit of Measure is the Farad.The Unit of Measure is the Farad.

Adding CapacitorsAdding CapacitorsCapacitors add in parallelCapacitors add in parallel

Ct = C1 + C2 + C3…Ct = C1 + C2 + C3…

In SeriesIn Series

Ct = Ct = C1 x C1 x C2C2C1 + C1 + C2C2Note: this is backwards fromNote: this is backwards from

resistors and inductors.resistors and inductors.

Capacitor SummaryCapacitor Summary

Capacitors store electrical energy Capacitors store electrical energy in their electrostatic fields.in their electrostatic fields.

• Capacitors are additive in parallel, Capacitors are additive in parallel, ““product over the sumproduct over the sum”” in series. in series.

• Capacitors tend to pass AC Capacitors tend to pass AC currents and block DC currents.currents and block DC currents.

• The unit of measurement for The unit of measurement for Capacitors is the Farad.Capacitors is the Farad.

The FuseThe Fuse

FuseFuse

The FuseThe FuseA fuse will self destruct when current flow A fuse will self destruct when current flow exceeds the fuse rating. This results in an open exceeds the fuse rating. This results in an open condition, and current flow will then cease, saving condition, and current flow will then cease, saving equipment from overheating and possible fire equipment from overheating and possible fire damage.damage.

What electrical component is used to protect other circuit components from current overloads?

A. FuseB. CapacitorC. ShieldD. Inductor

What does an antenna tuner do?

A. It matches the antenna system impedance to the transceiver's output impedanceB. It helps a receiver automatically tune in weak stationsC. It allows an antenna to be used on both transmit and receiveD. It automatically selects the proper antenna for the frequency band being used

What type of component is often used as an adjustable volume control?

A. Fixed resistorB. Power resistorC. PotentiometerD. Transformer

What is the approximate amount of change, measured in decibels (dB), of a power increase from 5 watts to 10 watts?

A. 2 dBB. 3 dBC. 5 dBD. 10 dB

What electrical component stores energy in an electric field?

A. ResistorB. CapacitorC. InductorD. Diode

Practical CircuitsPractical CircuitsPutting it all Putting it all

together.together.

FiltersFilters• We have learned:We have learned:

– Capacitors tend to pass AC and high Capacitors tend to pass AC and high frequenciesfrequencies

– Inductors tend to pass DC and low frequenciesInductors tend to pass DC and low frequencies

• We can now build circuits that…We can now build circuits that…– Block transmission of harmonic radiationBlock transmission of harmonic radiation– Block reception of amateur frequenciesBlock reception of amateur frequencies– Pass only a desired group of frequenciesPass only a desired group of frequencies

• Note the output of each type of filter.Note the output of each type of filter.

What instrument other than an SWR meter could you use to determine if a feedline and antenna are properly matched?

A. VoltmeterB. OhmmeterC. Iambic pentameterD. Directional wattmeter

Why is coaxial cable used more often than any other feedline for amateur radio antenna systems?

A. It is easy to use and requires few special installation considerationsB. It has less loss than any other type of feedlineC. It can handle more power than any other type of feedlineD. It is less expensive than any other types of feedline

11 22 33

If figure T5 represents a transceiver in which block 1 is the transmitter portion and block 3 is the receiver portion, what is the function of block 2?

A. A balanced modulatorB. A transmit-receive switchC. A power amplifierD. A high-pass filter

What type of filter should be connected to a TV receiver as the first step in trying to prevent RF overload from a nearby 2 meter transmitter?

A. Low-pass filterB. High-pass filterC. Band-pass filterD. Band-reject filter

What is the function of a product detector?

A. Detect phase modulated signalsB. Demodulate FM signalsC. Detect CW and SSB signalsD. Combine speech and RF signals

Signals and EmissionsSignals and EmissionsAM/FM, SSB,

CWAlphabet

Right: W4ZH J. Smith in New Orleans testing HF

Voice and HF Email

FCC Emission TypesFCC Emission Types

• CWCW• DataData• PhonePhone• TestTest

• MCWMCW• RTTYRTTY• ImageImage• PulsePulse• SS (Spread SS (Spread

Spectrum)Spectrum)

CWCWIn CW theIn CW thetelegraph keytelegraph keysimply turnssimply turnsthe radiothe radiotransmittertransmitteron and off toon and off toform the form the MorseMorsecode code characterscharacters

CW and MCWCW and MCW

• CW (continuous wave) is the on-off CW (continuous wave) is the on-off keying of a radio signal generally keying of a radio signal generally used for Morse codeused for Morse code

• MCW is the tone modulation of a MCW is the tone modulation of a carrier wave made to sound like carrier wave made to sound like Morse code, as in the automatic Morse code, as in the automatic identifiers used on some repeaters.identifiers used on some repeaters.

PhonePhone

• Phone is any voice transmissionPhone is any voice transmission• This includesThis includes

– AM (amplitude modulation)AM (amplitude modulation)– SSB (single side band, similar to AM)SSB (single side band, similar to AM)– FM (frequency modulation)FM (frequency modulation)

Amplitude ModulationAmplitude Modulation

An unmodulated RFAn unmodulated RFcarrier wavecarrier wave

A carrier wave AMA carrier wave AMmodulated with amodulated with asimple audio tonesimple audio tone

AM and SSBAM and SSB

An unmodulated RFAn unmodulated RFcarrier requires narrowcarrier requires narrowbandwidthbandwidth

Modulation of the Modulation of the carriercarriercreates sidebands. creates sidebands. ThisThisrequires more requires more bandwidth.bandwidth.Transmitter power is Transmitter power is spread across this spread across this bandwidthbandwidth

The carrier contains noThe carrier contains noaudio information.audio information.

The sidebands containThe sidebands containduplicate audio duplicate audio informationinformation

By filtering out the carrier and one sideband,By filtering out the carrier and one sideband,we save spectrum and concentrate our RFwe save spectrum and concentrate our RFenergy into a narrower bandwidth. SSB isenergy into a narrower bandwidth. SSB istherefore more efficient.therefore more efficient.

SSBSSB

What type of receiver is shown in Figure T6?

A. Direct conversionB. Super-regenerativeC. Single-conversion superheterodyneD. Dual-conversion superheterodyne

Figure T6

MIXER INTERMEDIATE

FREQUENCY AMPLIFIER

1 AUDIO AMPLIFIER

OSCILLATOR BEAT FREQUENCY OSCILLATOR

AMAM vs.vs. SSBSSB

• Sounds really niceSounds really nice• InexpensiveInexpensive• Simpler Simpler

equipmentequipment

• More efficient.More efficient.• Further range based Further range based

on same output on same output power.power.

• Narrower bandwidth, Narrower bandwidth, more room on more room on crowded bands.crowded bands.

• All modern HF radios All modern HF radios support SSB (not all support SSB (not all support AM)support AM)

• When SSB is not modulated (when When SSB is not modulated (when you are not talking) the transmitter you are not talking) the transmitter output power drops to almost output power drops to almost nothing. nothing.

• When either AM or SSB is over-When either AM or SSB is over-modulated the signal may cause modulated the signal may cause ““splatter,splatter,”” and interfere with other and interfere with other stations.stations.

Frequency ModulationFrequency Modulation

Unmodulated carrier, full powerUnmodulated carrier, full powerat all timesat all times

Waveform of modulatingWaveform of modulatingsignalsignal

Modulated carrier withModulated carrier withfrequency deviation andfrequency deviation andconstant amplitudeconstant amplitude

Frequency ModulationFrequency Modulation

• FM transmitters operate at full power FM transmitters operate at full power at all times, even when you are not at all times, even when you are not talking.talking.

• When an FM transmitter over-When an FM transmitter over-modulates, the transmitted signal modulates, the transmitted signal becomes so wide (bandwidth) it may becomes so wide (bandwidth) it may interfere with adjacent channels. interfere with adjacent channels. This is called over-deviation.This is called over-deviation.

ImageImage

• Image transmissions include all Image transmissions include all modes that will produce a picture, modes that will produce a picture, either video or paper copy (like a either video or paper copy (like a FAX) at the receiver.FAX) at the receiver.

• These modes include:These modes include:– SSTV (slow scan television)SSTV (slow scan television)– ATV (amateur television)ATV (amateur television)– FAX (facsimile)FAX (facsimile)

ImageImage

A sample amateur SSTV transmission.A sample amateur SSTV transmission.

ImageImageAmateurs like toAmateurs like toreceive weatherreceive weatherimages direct fromimages direct fromthe satellites.the satellites.

The equipment isThe equipment isinexpensive and youinexpensive and youdondon’’t even need at even need alicense!license!

Data and RTTYData and RTTY

• RTTY (radio teletype) was the forerunner RTTY (radio teletype) was the forerunner of all modern digital mode transmission.of all modern digital mode transmission.

• Today, amateurs use many kinds of Today, amateurs use many kinds of intelligent on air networking modes. intelligent on air networking modes. Collectively, the FCC refers to these Collectively, the FCC refers to these intelligent modes as intelligent modes as ““Data.Data.””

• Both Data and RTTY require an interface Both Data and RTTY require an interface between the Data or RTTY device and the between the Data or RTTY device and the transceiver.transceiver.

Data vs. RTTYData vs. RTTY• Error correctingError correcting• Store and forward Store and forward

networkingnetworking• AddressableAddressable• Packet orientedPacket oriented• Will interface with Will interface with

the Internetthe Internet• Requires TNC to Requires TNC to

interface with interface with radioradio

• No error correctionNo error correction• Direct contactDirect contact• No addressingNo addressing• Continuous data Continuous data

streamstream• No way!!No way!!• Requires Requires ““modemmodem””

to interface with to interface with radioradio

A Packet NetworkA Packet Network

• With only a few watts, you can connect With only a few watts, you can connect to an on-air network. Your data packets to an on-air network. Your data packets will be forwarded to hams all over the will be forwarded to hams all over the country.country.

• Packet type protocols include:Packet type protocols include:– Packet and APRS, Packet and APRS, – COVER, COVER, – PACTOR I, II & III PACTOR I, II & III (This is what TSA uses for HF Email)(This is what TSA uses for HF Email)

– G-TORG-TOR

A Packet NetworkA Packet Network

A Packet NetworkA Packet NetworkA A digipeaterdigipeater is a is a packet-radio station packet-radio station capable of recognizing capable of recognizing and selectively repeating and selectively repeating packet frames.packet frames.

By the use of digipeaters,By the use of digipeaters,a packet can be reliablya packet can be reliablysent error free over greatsent error free over greatdistances.distances.All the stations on aAll the stations on a

packet network sharepacket network sharethe same frequency.the same frequency.

TNCsTNCs

The The ““Terminal Node ControllerTerminal Node Controller”” (TNC) (TNC) interfaces your computer to your interfaces your computer to your

transceiver.transceiver.

TNCs TNCs (like the old dial up modems we used to get on the Internet)(like the old dial up modems we used to get on the Internet)

Test, SS and PulseTest, SS and Pulse

• Test emissions are simply Test emissions are simply unmodulated carrier. unmodulated carrier.

• SS (Spread Spectrum) are SS (Spread Spectrum) are experimental frequency hopping experimental frequency hopping modes.modes.

• Pulse emissions are used for Pulse emissions are used for telemetry.telemetry.

What method of call sign identification is required for a station transmitting phone signals?

A. Send the call sign followed by the indicator RPTB. Send the call sign using CW or phone emissionC. Send the call sign followed by the indicator RD. Send the call sign using only phone emission

Which of the following would be connected between a transceiver and computer in a packet radio station?

A. TransmatchB. MixerC. Terminal node controllerD. Antenna

What happens when the deviation of an FM transmitter is increased?

A. Its signal occupies more bandwidthB. Its output power increasesC. Its output power and bandwidth increasesD. Asymmetric modulation occurs

Which type of modulation is most commonly used for VHF and UHF voice repeaters?

A. AMB. SSBC. PSKD. FM

What can you do if you are told your FM handheld or mobile transceiver is over deviating?

A. Talk louder into the microphoneB. Let the transceiver cool offC. Change to a higher power levelD. Talk farther away from the microphone

AntennasAntennas

Antennas and Feed linesAntennas and Feed lines

• Antenna systems are resonant - that is, Antenna systems are resonant - that is, they respond best to a certain frequency.they respond best to a certain frequency.

• For best operation, the transmitter, feed For best operation, the transmitter, feed line and antenna must all be tuned to line and antenna must all be tuned to resonance - or something that looks like resonance - or something that looks like resonance.resonance.

• The transmitting antenna induces a radio The transmitting antenna induces a radio wave into the air. The radio wave travels wave into the air. The radio wave travels to the receiving antenna, and induces a to the receiving antenna, and induces a current in that antenna.current in that antenna.

The 1/2 Wave DipoleThe 1/2 Wave Dipole

Length of dipole in feet Length of dipole in feet = =

468 468 f (MHz)f (MHz)

The 1/2 Wave DipoleThe 1/2 Wave Dipole

The 1/4 Wave VerticalThe 1/4 Wave Vertical

Length of vertical in Length of vertical in feet = feet =

234 234 f (MHz)f (MHz)

The 1/4 Wave VerticalThe 1/4 Wave Vertical

A side view of the radiation pattern of a 1/4 waveA side view of the radiation pattern of a 1/4 wavevertical. From above the pattern is round like a vertical. From above the pattern is round like a doughnut. A perfect ground would be a car roof.doughnut. A perfect ground would be a car roof.

The Yagi The Yagi (Type of Beam Antenna)(Type of Beam Antenna)

• The yagi is the hamThe yagi is the ham’’s favorite s favorite directional antenna.directional antenna.

• They usually consist of one driven They usually consist of one driven element, and several element, and several ““parasiticparasitic”” (un- (un-driven) elements.driven) elements.– Reflector (longer than driver)Reflector (longer than driver)– Driven Element (1/2 wave dipole)Driven Element (1/2 wave dipole)– One or more Directors (shorter than the One or more Directors (shorter than the

driven element)driven element)

The YagiThe Yagi

GainGain

BoomBoomFe

Reflect

The reflectorThe reflectoracts like a acts like a

mirrormirror

The directorThe directoracts like aacts like a

lenslens

The YagiThe Yagi

The yagi antenna focuses RF The yagi antenna focuses RF energy in one direction, giving energy in one direction, giving the appearance ofgetting the appearance ofgetting ““free free power.power.””

This free power isThis free power iscalled Antenna Gain.called Antenna Gain.

The Yagi The Yagi (Beam Antenna)(Beam Antenna)

A 3 element HF YagiA 3 element HF Yagi A VHF A VHF YagiYagi

Feed linesFeed lines

• Feed line connects your radio to the Feed line connects your radio to the antenna.antenna.

• Feed lines are either balanced (neither Feed lines are either balanced (neither side grounded) like ladder-line or side grounded) like ladder-line or unbalanced (one side grounded) like unbalanced (one side grounded) like coaxial cable.coaxial cable.

• Either type can be used in your station.Either type can be used in your station.• Coax is more popular and easier to work Coax is more popular and easier to work

with.with.

CoaxCoax vs.vs. Ladder LineLadder Line

• Can be buried or Can be buried or run near metal run near metal objects.objects.

• Less RFI since Less RFI since outer shield is outer shield is usually grounded.usually grounded.

• WeatherproofWeatherproof• Easy to handle Easy to handle

and connectand connect

• Very low signal Very low signal lossloss

• Can tolerate high Can tolerate high SWRSWR

• Can tolerate high Can tolerate high currentcurrent

CoaxCoaxAll coaxial cableAll coaxial cablewill feature awill feature acenter conductorcenter conductorsurrounded by asurrounded by adielectric insulatordielectric insulatorand one or moreand one or morelayers of shieldinglayers of shieldingand an insulatingand an insulatingcover.cover.

The BalunThe Balun

The The balunbalun converts from converts fromBALBALanced feed line toanced feed line toUNUNbalanced feed lines.balanced feed lines.

Many antenna systems workMany antenna systems workbetter with a balun betweenbetter with a balun betweenthe feed point and the coaxthe feed point and the coax

SWRSWR

• SWR (standing wave ratio) is a SWR (standing wave ratio) is a mathematical expression of the power mathematical expression of the power going to an antenna and the power going to an antenna and the power being reflected back.being reflected back.

• The idea is to get as close to 1:1 as The idea is to get as close to 1:1 as possible.possible.

• Most hams are happy with SWR of 1.5:1.Most hams are happy with SWR of 1.5:1.• The best way to get a good SWR is to The best way to get a good SWR is to

cut the antenna to resonance.cut the antenna to resonance.

The Antenna TunerThe Antenna Tuner

““Antenna TunersAntenna Tuners”” do not really tune antennas. do not really tune antennas.They provide an impedance match betweenThey provide an impedance match between

the transmitter and antenna system.the transmitter and antenna system.

What is the approximate length, in inches, of a 6 meter 1/2-wavelength wire dipole antenna?

A. 6B. 50C. 112D. 236

What is the approximate length, in inches, of a quarter-wavelength vertical antenna for 146 MHz?

A. 112B. 50C. 19D. 12

How would you change a dipole antenna to make it resonant on a higher frequency?

A. Lengthen itB. Insert coils in series with radiating wiresC. Shorten itD. Add capacity hats to the ends of the radiating wires

Which of the following describes a simple dipole mounted so the conductor is parallel to the Earth's surface?

A. A ground wave antennaB. A horizontally polarized antennaC. A rhombic antennaD. A vertically polarized antenna

What type of antennas are the quad, Yagi, and dish?

A. Non-resonant antennasB. Loop antennasC. Directional antennasD. Isotropic antennas

What is a disadvantage of the "rubber duck" antenna supplied with most handheld radio transceivers?

A. It does not transmit or receive as effectively as a full-sized antennaB. It transmits a circularly polarized signalC. If the rubber end cap is lost it will unravel very quicklyD. All of these choices are correct

What, in general terms, is standing wave ratio (SWR)?

A. A measure of how well a load is matched to a transmission line B. The ratio of high to low impedance in a feedlineC. The transmitter efficiency ratioD. An indication of the quality of your station’s ground connection

RF SafetyRF Safety

CanCan’’t touch this.t touch this.

Intermission

2 Types of Radiation2 Types of Radiation

• IonizingIonizing– Gamma and X-rayGamma and X-ray– Can cause ionization of atomic structureCan cause ionization of atomic structure– Not good for your DNANot good for your DNA

• Non-ionizingNon-ionizing– Radio wavesRadio waves– Can cause heating of biological tissueCan cause heating of biological tissue– If sufficient energy is present, can cause If sufficient energy is present, can cause

burnsburns

RF HeatingRF Heating

• Radio waves can heat body tissue.Radio waves can heat body tissue.• Works exactly like your microwave oven.Works exactly like your microwave oven.• The area most likely to be injured is the The area most likely to be injured is the

eye as it lacks sufficient blood flow for eye as it lacks sufficient blood flow for cooling.cooling.

• The eye can form cataracts from repeated The eye can form cataracts from repeated exposure to high levels of RF energy.exposure to high levels of RF energy.

• NEVER touch an antenna or other RF NEVER touch an antenna or other RF source. You could be severely burned.source. You could be severely burned.

Controlled and Uncontrolled Controlled and Uncontrolled EnvironmentsEnvironments

• Controlled EnvironmentsControlled Environments– The amateur operators household and propertyThe amateur operators household and property– Persons here are Persons here are awareaware of RF risks, and have of RF risks, and have

controlcontrol of the transmitting equipment. of the transmitting equipment.

• Uncontrolled EnvironmentsUncontrolled Environments– Your neighbors household and propertyYour neighbors household and property– Persons here are Persons here are generally not awaregenerally not aware of RF of RF

risks and have risks and have NO controlNO control over the transmitter. over the transmitter.

Exposure Averaging TimesExposure Averaging Times

• Controlled EnvironmentsControlled Environments– The exposure averaging time isThe exposure averaging time is

6 Minutes6 Minutes• Uncontrolled EnvironmentsUncontrolled Environments

– The exposure averaging time isThe exposure averaging time is

30 Minutes30 Minutes

3 Methods of RF Checking3 Methods of RF Checking

• Measure the RF fieldsMeasure the RF fields– requires costly equipment that you donrequires costly equipment that you don’’t t

havehave

• Calculate the RF fieldsCalculate the RF fields– requires complex software that you donrequires complex software that you don’’t t

havehave

• Use the charts published by the FCCUse the charts published by the FCC– The charts are freeThe charts are free– Fairly simple to useFairly simple to use

RF Safety for DummiesRF Safety for Dummies

• Install your antenna away from Install your antenna away from people, especially your neighbors. people, especially your neighbors. The higher the better.The higher the better.

• Make sure your antenna is not Make sure your antenna is not near or could fall on a power line.near or could fall on a power line.

• Keep your hands and other body Keep your hands and other body parts away from the antenna and parts away from the antenna and feed lines.feed lines.

Who is Exempt?Who is Exempt?The RF safety regulations The RF safety regulations

do not apply to:do not apply to:

• Mobile equipmentMobile equipment• Hand-held radiosHand-held radios• Any station that Any station that

produces less than 50 produces less than 50 watts PEPwatts PEP

What is the minimum safe distance from a power line to allow when installing an antenna?

A. Half the width of your propertyB. The height of the power line above groundC. 1/2 wavelength at the operating frequencyD. So that if the antenna falls unexpectedly, no part of it can come closer than 10 feet to the power wires

What is the maximum power level that an amateur radio station may use at VHF frequencies before an RF exposure evaluation is required?

A. 1500 watts PEP transmitter outputB. 1 watt forward powerC. 50 watts PEP at the antennaD. 50 watts PEP reflected power

What could happen if a person accidentally touched your antenna while you were transmitting?

A. Touching the antenna could cause television interferenceB. They might receive a painful RF burnC. They might develop radiation poisoningD. All of these choices are correct

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 radiationB. It affects the peak exposure of people to radiationC. It takes into account the antenna feedline lossD. It takes into account the thermal effects of the final amplifier

Which of the following actions might amateur operators take to prevent exposure to RF radiation in excess of FCC-supplied limits?

A. Relocate antennasB. Relocate the transmitterC. Increase the duty cycleD. All of these choices are correct

What to Expect at the Exam SessionWhat to Expect at the Exam Session

• There will be a fee ($15) to take as There will be a fee ($15) to take as many tests as you like, as long as you many tests as you like, as long as you are passing them. To retest, just pay are passing them. To retest, just pay another $15another $15

• All the elements will be offered.All the elements will be offered.• Bring photo identification and your Bring photo identification and your

Social Security card. Children will need Social Security card. Children will need to show a birth certificate.to show a birth certificate.

• The tests are not timed.The tests are not timed.• Bring a #2 pencil.Bring a #2 pencil.

What to Expect at the Exam SessionWhat to Expect at the Exam Session

• You can bring a calculator.You can bring a calculator.• Do not write in the test booklet.Do not write in the test booklet.• You can ask for scratch paper to doodle You can ask for scratch paper to doodle

on.on.• You can retest any time, but usually NOT You can retest any time, but usually NOT

more than once at the same session.more than once at the same session.• The Element 2 - Technician Class Exam The Element 2 - Technician Class Exam

consists of 35 multiple choice questions,consists of 35 multiple choice questions,(you can miss 9) and you must answer (you can miss 9) and you must answer 75% or better to pass.75% or better to pass.

Who passes Who passes the exams?the exams?

Those who:Those who:Prepare by studying Prepare by studying 30 min to one hour 30 min to one hour a day. Take their a day. Take their time on the exam.time on the exam.Ask for help from an Ask for help from an Elmer.Elmer.

Keep trying, Never ever give up!!!!!!Keep trying, Never ever give up!!!!!!

Your new Call SignYour new Call Sign• You can get on the air as soon as you know You can get on the air as soon as you know

your new call sign. ie: in the FCC Database!!your new call sign. ie: in the FCC Database!!• Visit the Universal Licensing System on Visit the Universal Licensing System on

www.ftc.gov or do a Name Search on or do a Name Search on www.qrz.com, 6 - 8 days after you pass , 6 - 8 days after you pass your exam.your exam.

• Your license will arrive in the mail in a few Your license will arrive in the mail in a few weeks.weeks.

Welcome to the World ofWelcome to the World ofAmateur RadioAmateur Radio

What to do with that new call What to do with that new call signsign

Now that I am a Amateur Radio Now that I am a Amateur Radio Operator, What Do I Do?Operator, What Do I Do?

• Support Amateur Radio locally. Be Support Amateur Radio locally. Be involved in local clubs and associations.involved in local clubs and associations.

• Get involved in community service Get involved in community service through your local ARES group, or the through your local ARES group, or the American Red Cross.American Red Cross.

• Join the American Radio Relay League Join the American Radio Relay League (ARRL)(ARRL)

• More importantly, get on the air More importantly, get on the air and say something!and say something!

ARESARESARES is the local ARES is the local community emergencycommunity emergencyservices organizationservices organizationwhere hams can servewhere hams can serveas only amateur radioas only amateur radiocan…providing can…providing communications forcommunications foremergencies and emergencies and special events.special events.

Why join the ARRL?Why join the ARRL?• Since 1914 the American Radio Since 1914 the American Radio

Relay League has represented Relay League has represented the interests of Radio Amateurs the interests of Radio Amateurs before the FCC and Congress. before the FCC and Congress. While there is room for policy While there is room for policy debate, those who do not support debate, those who do not support the ARRL have virtually no voice the ARRL have virtually no voice in matters concerning ham radio. in matters concerning ham radio. Also, the QST magazine is an Also, the QST magazine is an excellent educational tool, full of excellent educational tool, full of interesting articles and fun interesting articles and fun projects.projects.

Where do I go from here?Where do I go from here?

• Stamp CollectingStamp Collecting• MeteorologyMeteorology• GeographyGeography• ComputersComputers• Radio AstronomyRadio Astronomy• Emergency Emergency

ServicesServicesSupport your local Amateur Radio

organization!

This Completes the Course…This Completes the Course…

……and begins a worldwide journey and begins a worldwide journey that will last you a lifetime.that will last you a lifetime.

Enjoy your new hobby! Enjoy your new hobby!

7373’’s de W4ZH Jeff Smith s de W4ZH Jeff Smith

Pensacola, FL Pensacola, FL

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