Question 6A371

Grid-modulated RF stages typically operate as Class C amplifiers. A Class C amplifier is biased significantly beyond plate current cutoff, meaning the plate current is zero for more than half of the RF cycle when no RF input is applied. Option D correctly identifies this bias point: "1 and half to 3 times plate current cutoff value" (more accurately, the voltage *required* to cause plate current cutoff, multiplied by 1.5 to 3, or simply specifying the operating point relative to cutoff). This deep-cutoff bias ensures high efficiency for the unmodulated RF carrier. The modulating signal then drives the grid from this deeply negative quiescent point into conduction during its positive peaks, varying the plate current and thus the RF output amplitude proportionally. Option A is incorrect because "cut-off frequency" refers to bandwidth limits, not the DC bias voltage or current level. An amplifier is biased *below* the plate current cutoff *voltage*. Option B, "At grid saturation," is incorrect. The quiescent bias is *not* set at saturation. Saturation might be reached during the positive peaks of the RF cycle when driven by the modulating signal, but the starting (unmodulated) bias is deep in cutoff to allow for effective amplitude variation. Option C, "At bias," is too vague and provides no specific information on the adjustment point.