FCC Exam Question: 8-9A3

The phantastron circuit is capable of:

A. Stabilizing the magnetron.
B. Preventing saturation of the RADAR receiver.
C. Being used to control repeller voltage in the AFC system.
D. Developing a linear ramp voltage when triggered by an external source.2009 FCC Commercial Element 8 Question Pool (approved 25 June 2009) PAGE 11
Correct Answer: D

Explanation: A phantastron circuit is a type of monostable multivibrator designed specifically to generate a highly linear ramp or sweep voltage. When triggered by an external pulse, it enters an unstable state and produces a voltage that increases linearly over a defined period before returning to its stable state. This characteristic makes it ideal for applications requiring precise timing or voltage sweeps, such as in oscilloscope sweep generators or radar display systems. A) Stabilizing a magnetron is typically achieved through highly stable resonant cavities, external locking oscillators, or precise power supplies, not a phantastron. B) Preventing radar receiver saturation usually involves gain control, limiting circuits, or sensitivity time control (STC), which are distinct from a phantastron's function. C) Controlling repeller voltage in an Automatic Frequency Control (AFC) system for a klystron or similar tube involves a discriminator and a DC control voltage derived from frequency error, not a ramp generator.

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