FCC Exam Question: 18B2

Which of the following conditions indicate the proper operation of a 250 Watt MF/HF transmitter in the F1B FEC mode?

A. The RF power meter indicates constant output at a level between 225 watts and 250 watts during
B. The RF power meter indicates power output only when characters are typed on the NBDP keyboard.
C. The RF “S” meter indicates a signal level between 225 watts and 250 watts during NBDP reception.
D. The RF power meter indicates an output that fluctuates between 0 and 250 watts during transmission.
Correct Answer: A

Explanation: F1B FEC (Forward Error Correction) is a type of FSK (Frequency Shift Keying) digital mode. FSK is a *constant envelope* modulation scheme, meaning the amplitude of the radio frequency (RF) carrier remains constant, while its frequency shifts to encode data (mark and space tones). For a constant envelope mode like F1B, the RF power output from the transmitter should be constant throughout the transmission, assuming proper amplifier operation. Therefore, a power meter should indicate a steady output level. Operating between 225 and 250 watts for a 250-watt transmitter indicates proper, full-power operation. Option B is incorrect because FSK transmits a continuous carrier, shifting its frequency, rather than turning the power on and off. Option C is incorrect as an "S" meter measures *received* signal strength, not *transmitted* power, and its readings are typically in S-units, not watts. Option D describes a varying envelope mode (like AM or SSB), where power fluctuates with modulation, which is not characteristic of FSK.

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