FCC Question Pool Review

Technician Class (Element 2) • 2022-2026

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Question T1B10

From subelement T1 - T1B

T1B10
Answer: C

Where may SSB phone be used in amateur bands above 50 MHz?

AOnly in sub-bands allocated to General class or higher licensees
BOnly on repeaters
CIn at least some segment of all these bands
DOn any band if the power is limited to 25 watts

Why is this correct?

SSB phone operation is permitted in at least some portion of all amateur bands above 50 MHz. Unlike HF bands where Technician privileges are restricted, VHF/UHF bands generally allow SSB throughout most of their frequency ranges. Only small CW-only segments exist (like 50.0-50.1 MHz and 144.0-144.1 MHz). Options A, B, and D are incorrect because SSB isn't limited to higher license classes, isn't restricted to repeaters, and has no special 25-watt power restriction.

Memory tip

Remember the pattern: VHF/UHF bands are much more permissive than HF for Technicians. While HF has significant mode and frequency restrictions, VHF/UHF bands above 50 MHz generally welcome all modes including SSB, with only narrow CW-only segments as exceptions.

Learn more

In amateur radio frequency privileges, VHF/UHF bands above 50 MHz operate under more liberal emission standards than HF bands. The FCC designed these allocations recognizing that higher frequencies experience less international propagation, reducing potential interference with foreign services. This allows broader mode privileges including SSB phone operation throughout most band segments, supporting weak-signal communication and DXing activities that benefit from SSB's superior signal-to-noise ratio compared to FM.

Think about it

Why do you think the FCC allows more liberal SSB privileges on VHF/UHF bands compared to the restrictive phone privileges Technicians have on HF bands?