Question 6A428

Each option describes a fault condition within a transmitter that can lead to the generation or poor containment of radio frequency (RF) energy, resulting in "stray RF." Stray RF can induce currents or voltages in unintended circuits, including the DC wiring leading to instruments, potentially causing damage or inaccurate readings. * **A) Insufficient grid blocking bias is applied to the grid when the key is open:** In an RF amplifier, grid blocking bias is a negative voltage applied to the grid to cut off the tube (or transistor) when the transmitter is idle (key open). If this bias is insufficient, the amplifier may not fully turn off and can still generate or amplify some RF energy, even when it shouldn't. This uncontrolled RF becomes stray RF. * **B) Shorted bias resistor:** A bias resistor (e.g., cathode or grid-leak) establishes the proper DC operating point for an amplifier stage. If it's shorted, the intended bias voltage will be incorrect or absent, leading to improper operation, excessive current, or even parasitic oscillations. These conditions generate unwanted RF that can radiate as stray RF. * **C) Shorted key-click filter:** A key-click filter shapes the RF envelope during CW keying to prevent broadband interference. If this filter is shorted, it disrupts the intended RF path and filtering action. This can lead to instability, improper RF transients, or allow RF to bypass its intended containment, increasing stray RF. All these conditions contribute to the presence of stray RF within the transmitter, which can then couple into and damage DC instruments. Therefore, ensuring these conditions *do not exist* is how instruments are protected from stray RF damage.