1. B
FM broadcasting uses frequency modulation
2. B
ATSC defines digital video and audio transmission standards
3. B
An encoder converts analog audio into digital
4. B
An exciter modulates the carrier signal
5. A
VHF ranges from 30–300 MHz
6. B
BNC connectors are standard in video
7. B
Impedance matching minimizes reflections
8. B
The SBE administers the CBT
9. A
Multiplexing combines multiple signals
10. B
75 ohms is the standard impedance
11. B
RF power is measured in watts
12. A
UPS provides voltage stabilization
13. B
A vectorscope measures color phase and saturation
14. B
Dolby Digital (AC-3) is standard in TV
15. B
ESD protection prevents static damage
16. B
FCC Part 73 covers broadcasters
17. A
Modulation monitors check legal modulation limits
18. B
Fall-arrest systems are required
19. B
Digital broadcasting improves quality and efficiency
20. C
A multiplexer combines multiple signals
21. C
OFDM is used in HD Radio
22. B
Crest factor is RMS-to-peak ratio
23. B
Spectrum analyzers measure frequency content
24. C
Coaxial cable is most used
25. D
Proof of Performance ensures FCC compliance
26. C
Dipoles radiate omnidirectionally
27. B
Return loss indicates reflected signal
28. B
Grounding ensures safety and reduces interference
29. A
Program logs list daily broadcast content
30. C
±75 kHz is maximum FM deviation
31. B
Redundancy ensures backup operation
32. A
Nyquist theorem sets sampling rate
33. B
DVB-T is Europe’s digital TV standard
34. B
STL links studio to transmitter
35. B
Modulation index = frequency deviation / modulating frequency
36. B
FCC regulates spectrum and licensing
37. B
Circulators protect transmitters from reflections
Facts verified Oct 19, 2026 against Society of Broadcast Engineers. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
Facts verified Oct 19, 2026 against Society of Broadcast Engineers. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
| Item | Detail | Official source |
|---|---|---|
| Number of questions | 50 multiple-choice questions (AM/FM or TV) | Society of Broadcast Engineers |
| Passing score | 70% | Society of Broadcast Engineers |
| Exam fee | $69 member; $174 non-member; $284 Non-MemberPlus | Society of Broadcast Engineers |
| Retake fee | $46 per retake | Society of Broadcast Engineers |
| Retake policy | One retake at the next scheduled testing period; further attempts need a new application | Society of Broadcast Engineers |
| Validity | 5 years | Society of Broadcast Engineers |
| Renewal | Employment in the industry for 3 of the 5 certified years | Society of Broadcast Engineers |
| Delivery | In-person, proctored through local SBE chapters | Society of Broadcast Engineers |
| Eligibility | No experience requirement | Society of Broadcast Engineers |
| Score release | Within a couple of days of SBE receiving the exam | Society of Broadcast Engineers |
| Registration deadline (Aug 6–16, 2027 window) | June 14, 2027 | Society of Broadcast Engineers |
| Registration deadline (Feb 5–15, 2027 window) | January 4, 2027 | Society of Broadcast Engineers |
| Registration deadline (Jun 4–14, 2027 window) | April 12, 2027 | Society of Broadcast Engineers |
| Registration deadline (Nov 5–15, 2027 window) | September 6, 2027 | Society of Broadcast Engineers |
| Registration opens | Applications accepted at any time, subject to exam-window deadlines | Society of Broadcast Engineers |
| Testing window | Nov 6–16, 2026; Feb 5–15, Jun 4–14, Aug 6–16, Nov 5–15, 2027 | Society of Broadcast Engineers |
Facts verified Oct 19, 2026 against Society of Broadcast Engineers. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
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