FCC Exam Question: 8-41E6

RADAR antenna direction must be sent to the display in all ARPAs or RADAR systems. How is this accomplished?

A. 3-phase synchros.
B. 2-phase resolvers.
C. Optical encoders.
D. Any of the above.
Correct Answer: D

Explanation: Accurately transmitting the RADAR antenna's direction (azimuth) to the display is crucial for proper target plotting and situational awareness. Different technologies achieve this, depending on the system's age, precision requirements, and design: * **A) 3-phase synchros:** These are electromechanical devices that provide an analog representation of an angular position. A synchro transmitter connected to the antenna shaft generates electrical signals that correspond to its angle, which are then sent to a synchro receiver at the display to indicate the current direction. This is a traditional and robust method. * **B) 2-phase resolvers:** Similar to synchros, resolvers output sine and cosine voltages proportional to the shaft angle. These signals can be digitized to provide a highly accurate digital representation of the antenna's position. * **C) Optical encoders:** These are digital devices that use a rotating disk with a pattern and an optical sensor to generate digital pulses. By counting these pulses, the exact angular position of the antenna can be determined with high precision, making them ideal for modern digital systems. Since all three methods are viable and commonly employed for angle transmission in RADAR and ARPA systems, "Any of the above" is the correct answer.

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