Question
On which HF and/or MF amateur bands are there portions where General class licensees cannot transmit?
Answer Options
- A) 60 meters, 30 meters, 17 meters, and 12 meters
- B) 160 meters, 60 meters, 15 meters, and 12 meters
- C) 80 meters, 40 meters, 20 meters, and 15 meters
- D) 80 meters, 20 meters, 15 meters, and 10 meters
Correct Answer: C
Explanation
General class operators are granted a wide range of privileges, but they do not have access to the absolute lowest frequency portions of the primary HF bands. On the 80, 40, 20, and 15-meter bands, the narrow segments at the very bottom of the CW/data sub-bands are typically reserved exclusively for the Amateur Extra class license. This configuration is a common feature on the major amateur bands to reward the highest license class with clear, exclusive operating segments.
Specifically, FCC Rule \S 97.301(\text{d}) outlines the General class frequency privileges. You must be careful to check the specific sub-band limits for your license class as you move up the HF spectrum, particularly in the most popular bands. The correct option lists the bands that contain these Extra-exclusive segments, which are off-limits to General class licensees.
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