Guitar Quality Control & Assurance 3

Question 1

A QC technician uses a 'fret rocker' tool during inspection. What defect is this tool designed to detect?

Accepted Answer

Uneven or high frets

Answer

A fret rocker is a small straight edge placed across three frets at a time; if it rocks, the middle fret is high and causing buzzing.

Question 2

In electric guitar QC, what does 'coil hum' indicate about a single-coil pickup?

Accepted Answer

The pickup is picking up electromagnetic interference from the environment

Answer

Single-coil pickups act as antennas and are susceptible to electromagnetic interference (60-cycle hum) from power sources and lighting.

Question 3

Which aspect of guitar finishing is checked using a gloss meter during manufacturing QC?

Accepted Answer

Reflectivity and consistency of the finish sheen

Answer

A gloss meter measures the light reflectivity of a surface at a specific angle, ensuring finish sheen is consistent and meets specification.

Question 4

During acoustic guitar QC, a technician notices the bridge plate has separated from the top. What is the primary structural risk?

Accepted Answer

Bridge pulling away from the top under string tension, potentially cracking the top

Answer

A loose bridge plate undermines the bond between the bridge and top, and string tension can cause the bridge to peel away and crack the top.

Question 5

What is the purpose of checking 'binding and purfling' quality during guitar inspection?

Accepted Answer

To confirm aesthetic edge finishing is uniform and properly adhered

Answer

Binding and purfling are decorative edge treatments that also protect the body edges; QC checks for gaps, lifting, poor mitering, and color inconsistency.

Guitar Practice Test

Guitar Practice Test

Guitar Quality Control & Assurance 3