FCC Exam Question: 3-88N1

What is facsimile?

A. The transmission of still pictures by slow-scan television.
B. The transmission of characters by radioteletype that form a picture when printed.
C. The transmission of printed pictures for permanent display on paper.
D. The transmission of video by television.
Correct Answer: C

Explanation: Facsimile (FAX) is a communication method specifically for transmitting fixed graphical information, such as documents, drawings, or photographs. The defining characteristic is the goal of reproducing an exact copy of the original for permanent display, traditionally on paper, at the receiving end. This involves scanning the original image into electrical signals for transmission and then reconstructing the image from those signals upon reception. Option A describes Slow-Scan Television (SSTV), which transmits still images but is primarily intended for display on a screen rather than permanent paper reproduction as the core definition of facsimile. Option B refers to radioteletype (RTTY) and character-based graphics, a distinct mode that transmits text characters. Option D describes standard television, which transmits moving video, not static pictures for document reproduction.

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