FREE NWSA Antenna and Line Installation Questions and Answers

Question 1

When performing a sweep test (or VSWR test) on a newly installed coaxial cable run, what is the primary purpose of this test?

Accepted Answer

To verify the cable and its connectors meet performance specifications across a range of frequencies.

Answer

To measure the cable's resistance to weather and UV exposure.

Answer

To determine the maximum power handling capacity of the transmission line.

Answer

To locate sources of Passive Intermodulation (PIM) caused by loose connections.

Question 2

A technician is installing antenna mounting hardware that specifies a torque value of 60 ft-lbs for the 5/8" bolts. The technician only has a torque wrench that measures in inch-pounds. What value should the technician set the wrench to?

Accepted Answer

720 in-lbs

Answer

600 in-lbs

Answer

120 in-lbs

Answer

660 in-lbs

Question 3

Which of the following best describes Passive Intermodulation (PIM) in an antenna and line system?

Accepted Answer

Unwanted interference signals generated when two or more carrier frequencies mix at a non-linear junction, such as a corroded or loose connector.

Answer

A measure of the signal reflected back towards the transmitter due to an impedance mismatch.

Answer

The loss of signal strength (attenuation) as it travels along the length of a coaxial cable.

Answer

External radio frequency interference from nearby broadcast towers or other cell sites.

Question 4

During the installation of a new transmission line on a tower, a technician must use a hoisting grip to lift the cable. Where should the hoisting grip be attached to the cable for a vertical lift?

Accepted Answer

Near the connector at the top end of the cable.

Answer

At the midpoint of the cable to balance the load.

Answer

Loosely around the cable jacket to allow for movement.

Answer

Several feet below the connector to avoid stress on the connection point.

Question 5

A tower crew is tasked with weatherproofing a 4.3-10 coaxial connector on an antenna jumper. What is the standard, multi-layer method for ensuring a long-lasting, watertight seal?

Accepted Answer

Applying a layer of vinyl tape, followed by a layer of butyl mastic tape, and finished with an outer layer of vinyl tape.

Answer

A single, thick layer of electrical tape wrapped tightly around the connector.

Answer

Injecting silicone sealant directly into the connector threads before tightening.

Answer

Using a heat-shrink tube without any underlying tape layers.

Question 6

While reviewing a closeout package for a recent antenna installation, you notice the PIM test passed, but the Return Loss (VSWR) test failed. What does this combination of results most likely indicate?

Accepted Answer

There is an impedance mismatch, possibly due to a damaged cable or faulty antenna, but the connections are clean and tight.

Answer

The test equipment was not calibrated correctly.

Answer

There is a loose or corroded connector causing non-linearities in the system.

Answer

The antenna is installed at the wrong azimuth.