FCC Exam Question: 6A452

Harmonic radiation from a transmitter may cause interference:

A. Where the fundamental signal cannot be heard because of "skip"
B. In other shipboard equipment
C. A & B
D. None of the above
Correct Answer: C

Explanation: Harmonic radiation consists of unintended signals transmitted at integer multiples of your fundamental operating frequency. These emissions, even if weaker than the primary signal, can cause significant interference. Option A is correct because harmonics can propagate differently than the fundamental. For instance, a harmonic frequency might "skip" via the ionosphere to distant locations where the fundamental signal, due to its frequency or power, cannot be heard. This can cause interference to other services operating on the harmonic frequency, far from the transmitting station. Option B is also correct. Harmonics can interfere locally with other electronic equipment, such as radios, navigation systems, or computers on the same ship, in a home, or other confined environments. This is due to the strong radiated fields or conducted signals within close proximity. Since harmonic radiation can cause both long-distance skip interference and local equipment interference, option C, which includes both scenarios, is the most comprehensive and correct answer.

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.