Question
What is the purpose of a squelch function?
Answer Options
- A) Reduce a CW transmitter’s key clicks
- B) Mute the receiver audio when a signal is not present
- C) Eliminate parasitic oscillations in an RF amplifier
- D) Reduce interference from impulse noise
Correct Answer: B
Explanation
The squelch function is a control found on most radio receivers, especially FM transceivers. Its purpose is to mute the receiver audio when a signal is not present.
When no signal is being received, an FM receiver plays only loud, distracting background noise. The squelch control sets a threshold of signal strength; when the signal is below that threshold, the audio is muted, keeping the speaker quiet for the operator. Only when a signal is strong enough to pass the squelch threshold is the audio unmuted.
This topic was automatically created to facilitate community discussion about this exam question. Feel free to share study tips, memory tricks, or additional explanations!