FCC Exam Question: 6A455

The follow devices that could be used to indicate oscillation in a crystal oscillator are:

A. Plate DC milliammeter, grid DC ammeter, neon bulb
B. Thermogalvanometer, wavemeter
C. Flashlight bulb on a loop of wire, heterodyne type frequency meter
D. All of the above
Correct Answer: D

Explanation: Oscillation in a crystal oscillator means the circuit is producing a stable radio frequency (RF) signal. All the listed devices can indicate this: * **A) Plate DC milliammeter, grid DC ammeter, neon bulb:** In a vacuum tube oscillator, changes in DC plate or grid current often accompany the onset of oscillation due to biasing changes or rectification of the RF signal. A neon bulb will glow when placed in a strong RF field, indicating RF power. * **B) Thermogalvanometer, wavemeter:** A thermogalvanometer measures RF current by detecting the heat it generates. A wavemeter (resonant circuit) will absorb energy and show a peak reading when tuned to the oscillator's frequency, confirming RF output. * **C) Flashlight bulb on a loop of wire, heterodyne type frequency meter:** A small flashlight bulb connected to a loop will light up when coupling to the RF field, indicating power. A heterodyne frequency meter creates an audible beat note when its internal frequency matches the oscillator's, confirming RF presence and frequency. Since all these methods detect the presence of RF energy or specific circuit conditions indicative of oscillation, "All of the above" is correct.

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