ARRL Technician Practice Exam

What may happen if a transmitter is operated with the microphone gain set too high?

1. The signal may be transmitted on an incorrect frequency

2. The output signal might become distorted

3. Battery consumption will increase significantly

4. The audio quality will improve

The correct answer is: The output signal might become distorted

When the microphone gain is set too high, it can lead to distortion in the output signal. This happens because the audio input becomes too strong for the transmitter to handle, and as a result, the peaks of the audio signal are clipped. Clipping occurs when the audio level exceeds the maximum limit that the transmitter can accommodate, leading to a harsh, distorted sound during transmission. Distortion negatively affects the clarity and intelligibility of the transmitted audio, making it difficult for others to understand the communication. This effect is particularly problematic in amateur radio operations where clear communication is key. Therefore, managing mic gain is crucial to ensure high-quality audio transmission and to avoid unnecessary distortion. In contrast, other options like transmitting on an incorrect frequency or improving audio quality do not relate directly to the effects of improper gain settings, emphasizing why the focus remains on the distortion of the output signal.