FCC Exam Question: 3-86N3

What type of wire connects an SSB automatic tuner to an insulated backstay?

A. RG8U.
B. RG213.
C. 16-gauge two-conductor.
D. GTO-15 high-voltage cable.
Correct Answer: D

Explanation: An SSB automatic tuner connected to an insulated backstay effectively uses the backstay as an end-fed wire antenna. Such antennas, especially when operating on lower frequencies or mismatched, can develop extremely high RF voltages at their feed point – potentially thousands of volts, even with moderate transmit power. **GTO-15 high-voltage cable** is specifically designed to withstand these very high AC (and thus RF) voltages, typically rated for 15,000 volts. Its robust insulation prevents arcing and power loss at the antenna connection point. **RG8U and RG213** are 50-ohm coaxial cables. While suitable for carrying RF power to 50-ohm loads, their insulation is not designed to handle the extremely high voltages and high impedances present at the feed point of an end-fed wire antenna, which can be thousands of ohms. They would likely arc over and fail. **16-gauge two-conductor wire** is a general-purpose electrical wire with minimal insulation for high RF voltages, typically rated for only a few hundred volts. It would immediately arc and fail in this application.

Pass Your FCC Exam!

Study offline, track your progress, and simulate real exams with the GMDSS Trainer app.


Includes Elements 1, 3, 6, 7R, 8, and 9.