Repeaters & Linking Systems Flashcards
7 cards from real Ham Radio Technician Test practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Repeaters & Linking Systems flashcards as text
What is DCS (Digital Coded Squelch) used for in repeater systems?
Answer: Controlling repeater access using a continuous digital data stream, similar to CTCSS
DCS uses a continuous sub-audible digital data stream to control squelch and selectively activate repeaters, functioning similarly to CTCSS but in digital form.
What does a repeater's 'time-out timer' do when it activates?
Answer: Stops the repeater from retransmitting after a set transmission length is exceeded
A time-out timer cuts off the repeater's retransmission after a set duration to prevent any single transmission from monopolizing the repeater.
What is a 'linked repeater network'?
Answer: Two or more repeaters connected by radio or internet to relay signals over a wider geographic area
A linked repeater network connects two or more repeaters via RF links or the internet so that a signal into one repeater is heard on all of them.
What is the primary purpose of requiring a CTCSS tone to access a repeater?
Answer: To prevent the repeater from being triggered by noise or unintended signals
Requiring a CTCSS tone prevents interference, noise bursts, or signals from other repeaters from accidentally triggering the repeater.
What does the informal term 'machine' refer to in amateur radio?
Answer: A repeater
'Machine' is common amateur radio slang for a repeater, often used in phrases like 'nice machine' or 'what machine are you on?'
How often must an amateur station transmit its callsign when communicating through a repeater?
Answer: At least every 10 minutes during communication and at the end of communication
FCC Part 97 rules require amateur stations to transmit their callsign at least every 10 minutes and at the conclusion of communications.
In repeater terminology, what is a 'kerchunker'?
Answer: An operator who keys up a repeater without identifying themselves or speaking
A 'kerchunker' is an operator who transmits briefly just to activate the repeater (causing a 'kerchunk' sound) without identifying or making a proper call, which is poor operating practice.