FCC Exam Question: 10A2

Which of the following best describes a VHF collinear array?

A. An antenna with phased elements, omni directional radiation pattern, offering up to 9 db gain.
B. The cascade filters in the VHF radio's IF section.
C. A shoreside directional VHF yagi antenna.
D. A depth sounder phased array transducer.
Correct Answer: A

Explanation: A VHF collinear array is indeed an antenna. It consists of multiple radiating elements stacked vertically, one above the other, and fed in phase. This arrangement causes the radio frequency energy from each element to combine constructively along the horizon, increasing the signal strength in the horizontal plane. This results in an omnidirectional radiation pattern horizontally, making it ideal for mobile or base station use where 360-degree coverage is desired. This phasing and stacking also concentrates the signal, providing significant gain, often up to 9 dB or more, compared to a single dipole. Option B describes internal radio circuitry, not an antenna. Option C refers to a Yagi antenna, which is directional and uses a different element arrangement than a collinear array. Option D describes a transducer for sound waves, unrelated to radio frequency antennas.

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