FCC Exam Question: 35D2
What is the minimum receiver sensitivity required for a Survival Craft Transceiver?
Explanation: Survival Craft Transceivers, such as portable VHF DSC radios designated for use in life rafts, must adhere to strict international performance standards. These standards are established by organizations like the IMO (International Maritime Organization) as part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). To ensure reliable communication during distress, especially when signals from rescue vessels might be weak, these transceivers have a mandated minimum receiver sensitivity. The standard specifies that the receiver must have a sensitivity such that an input signal of **2.0 microvolts (e.m.f.)** produces a 20 dB SINAD ratio, using a 1000 Hz tone modulated at 30% deviation. This ensures the device can adequately pick up vital communications, making it critical for search and rescue operations. Lower sensitivity values (e.g., 0.1, 0.5, or 1.0 microvolts) would indicate a *more sensitive* receiver, which is beneficial but not the *minimum requirement* stipulated by the regulations. Values higher than 2.0 microvolts would indicate a *less sensitive* receiver, which would be insufficient for distress situations.
43F4
35D4
19B3
48G2
41F6
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Includes Elements 1, 3, 6, 7R, 8, and 9.