FCC Exam Question: 6A230

Vacuum tubes operating as Class A amplifiers may be used as:

A. When compared with a single-tube stage, power output is doubled
B. When compared with a single-tube stage, power output is the same
C. When compared with a single-tube stage, power output is cut in half
D. None of the above
Correct Answer: D

Explanation: Vacuum tubes operating as Class A amplifiers are characterized by continuous conduction (360 degrees of the input signal cycle), producing a highly linear output with low distortion. Their power output is determined by the specific tube type, plate voltage, quiescent current, and load impedance, not by a universal doubling or halving relative to an unspecified "single-tube stage." * **A) Power output is doubled:** This statement is incorrect. Doubling power output is often achieved by using two tubes in a push-pull configuration (typically Class B or AB for power stages) which is different from a single-tube Class A operation. * **B) Power output is the same:** This is too vague to be universally true. "The same as what?" The power output of a Class A amplifier is specific to its design, not generically "the same" as any other single-tube stage without further context. * **C) Power output is cut in half:** This is also incorrect. There is no fundamental characteristic of Class A operation that cuts its power output in half compared to another single-tube stage. Class A amplifiers generally have lower efficiency than Class B or C, meaning they dissipate more heat for a given output power, but this isn't a fixed halving of output power. Therefore, none of the options accurately describe a universal power output characteristic of Class A amplifiers compared to a generic single-tube stage. The actual power output depends entirely on the specific design.

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.