CBT Broadcast Systems & Equipment 3

Question 1

What is the key advantage of using fiber optic cable over coaxial cable for signal transport in large broadcast facilities?

Accepted Answer

Immunity to electromagnetic interference and much longer distance capability

Answer

Fiber optic cable is immune to EMI/RFI and supports signal transport over kilometers without amplification, making it ideal for large facilities and outside broadcasts.

Question 2

In digital broadcast systems, what is the purpose of a serializer/deserializer (SerDes)?

Accepted Answer

To convert parallel data to serial form for transmission and back to parallel at the receiver

Answer

A SerDes chip converts parallel data (multiple bits simultaneously) into a serial bitstream for efficient single-cable transmission, then reverses the process at the destination.

Question 3

What is the primary difference between SDI and HD-SDI?

Accepted Answer

HD-SDI operates at a higher bit rate (1.485 Gb/s) to carry high-definition video

Answer

SD-SDI operates at 270 Mb/s for standard definition, while HD-SDI runs at 1.485 Gb/s (SMPTE 292M) to accommodate the greater bandwidth of HD video.

Question 4

What function does a test signal generator serve during broadcast equipment alignment?

Accepted Answer

It produces known reference signals like color bars or tone for calibrating equipment

Answer

Test signal generators produce standardized reference signals (color bars, multiburst, tone) used to align, calibrate, and verify broadcast equipment to specification.

Question 5

In broadcast audio, what is the function of a mix-minus feed?

Accepted Answer

A program mix sent to a contributor with their own audio removed to prevent feedback

Answer

A mix-minus is the program audio mix minus the recipient's own contribution, preventing echo or feedback when the feed is returned to them.

(CBT) Certified Broadcast Technologist Practice Test

(CBT) Certified Broadcast Technologist Practice Test

CBT Broadcast Systems & Equipment 3