Station Setup and Equipment Flashcards
6 cards from real Ham Radio General Class Test practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Station Setup and Equipment flashcards as text
What is the primary purpose of an antenna tuner (antenna coupler) in an amateur radio station?
Answer: To match the transceiver output impedance to the antenna system
An antenna tuner matches the transceiver's output impedance (typically 50 ohms) to the antenna system to maximize power transfer and minimize SWR.
Which instrument is used to measure the standing wave ratio (SWR) in a transmission line?
Answer: Directional wattmeter or SWR meter
A directional wattmeter (SWR meter) measures forward and reflected power to calculate SWR on a transmission line.
What is the recommended grounding method for an amateur radio station to reduce RF interference and improve safety?
Answer: Connect all equipment to a single-point ground using the shortest practical conductors
A single-point ground with short conductors minimizes ground loops and reduces RF current on equipment cases.
What type of coaxial cable connector is most commonly used for HF amateur radio equipment in the United States?
Answer: PL-259 (UHF)
The PL-259 (SO-239 on the equipment side), commonly called the UHF connector, is the standard for HF amateur radio equipment in the US.
What is the function of a low-pass filter installed between a transmitter and the antenna?
Answer: Reduce harmonic emissions that could cause interference
A low-pass filter passes HF frequencies while attenuating harmonics above the cutoff frequency, reducing TV and other interference.
What is the purpose of a balun used at the feedpoint of a dipole antenna?
Answer: Convert balanced antenna impedance to unbalanced coaxial cable
A balun (balanced-to-unbalanced transformer) connects the balanced dipole feedpoint to the unbalanced coaxial feed line, preventing common-mode current.