FCC Exam Question: 43F5

Which of the following statements about an NMEA -0183 system is correct?

A. The cable shield must be grounded at both ends including the opto-isolators.
B. Opto-isolators must be used and the shield should be grounded to the talker chassis only.
C. Opto-isolators must be used and the shield should be grounded to the listener chassis only.
D. Version 2 devices use higher voltages than version 1 devices.
Correct Answer: B

Explanation: NMEA-0183 systems are designed for robust data communication in electrically noisy environments, like those found on boats. Opto-isolators are crucial for providing electrical isolation between connected devices. This prevents ground loops, which occur when two devices are connected by a data cable and also share a common ground via their power supplies, leading to unwanted current flow and noise. To further prevent ground loops and minimize noise pickup, the cable shield should be grounded at one end only. Grounding it at the "talker" (source) chassis is the recommended practice. This helps dissipate electrical noise at the source before it can propagate along the cable and induce interference into the signal lines. Grounding the shield at both ends (A) would create a ground loop, defeating the purpose of the isolation and inviting noise. Grounding only at the listener (C) is less effective for noise rejection. Version changes (D) in NMEA-0183 primarily concern protocol enhancements and data integrity, not fundamental voltage level differences.

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