Question T4B03
From subelement T4 - T4B
How is squelch adjusted so that a weak FM signal can be heard?
Why is this correct?
Option A is correct because to hear weak FM signals, you need the squelch threshold low enough that all audio passes through, including weak signals and background noise. The squelch normally mutes audio below a set signal strength threshold. Options B, C, and D are incorrect: turning up audio volume doesn't change the squelch threshold that blocks weak signals, and 'anti-squelch function' and 'squelch enhancement' are not real transceiver features.
Memory tip
Think of squelch as a gate that opens only for strong signals. To catch weak signals, you must lower the gate (threshold) until it stays open constantly, allowing everything through including the weak signal you want to hear.
Learn more
Squelch adjustment is fundamental to VHF/UHF operation where signal strengths vary dramatically due to terrain, distance, and mobile operation. In practical amateur radio, operators frequently adjust squelch when working distant stations or monitoring for emergency traffic. The threshold setting determines your receiver's sensitivity floor - too high and you miss weak stations calling for help, too low and constant noise becomes fatiguing during long monitoring sessions.
Think about it
Why do you think having constant background noise (by setting squelch very low) would actually help you hear a weak signal that might otherwise be blocked?