FCC Exam Question: 29C2

Which of the following is characteristic of the parabolic dish antenna?

A. Feedhorn located behind the parabolic reflector.
B. Feedhorn adjusted to the focal point of the antenna.
C. Most often used on high frequencies (3-30 MHz).
D. Low gain, highly directional radiation pattern.
Correct Answer: B

Explanation: A parabolic dish antenna operates by focusing electromagnetic waves. For efficient operation, the feedhorn – the actual antenna element that radiates or receives the radio waves – must be precisely positioned at the *focal point* of the parabolic reflector. This ensures that incoming waves are concentrated onto the feedhorn, or outgoing waves from the feedhorn are reflected into a narrow, parallel beam, maximizing energy transfer and directivity. Options A is incorrect because while some designs (like Cassegrain) place the feedhorn physically behind the reflector, its critical placement is still relative to the focal point, often interacting with a sub-reflector. Other designs place it in front. The focal point is the key. Option C is incorrect; parabolic dishes are most often used for microwave frequencies (UHF, SHF, EHF) where their physical size is practical for achieving high gain. They are impractical for low frequencies like 3-30 MHz. Option D is incorrect as parabolic dishes are known for *high gain* and *highly directional* radiation patterns, not low gain.

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