Question T5B05
From subelement T5 - T5B
Which is equal to 500 milliwatts?
Why is this correct?
Converting milliwatts to watts requires dividing by 1,000 since 'milli' means one-thousandth. So 500 milliwatts ÷ 1,000 = 0.5 watts. Choice A (0.02) would be 20 milliwatts. Choice C (5 watts) would be 5,000 milliwatts. Choice D (50 watts) would be 50,000 milliwatts. The key is remembering that milli prefix means divide by 1,000 when converting to the base unit.
Memory tip
For metric prefix conversions, memorize that milli always means ÷1,000 and kilo means ×1,000. This pattern works across all electrical units: milliamps to amps, milliwatts to watts, kilohertz to hertz. The decimal point simply moves three places.
Learn more
Power measurements are critical in amateur radio for managing RF exposure limits and ensuring proper equipment operation. Many handheld transceivers operate in the milliwatt to low-watt range, while base stations may use hundreds of watts. Understanding these conversions helps you select appropriate equipment for your intended coverage area and comply with station power limitations specified in Part 97.
Think about it
Why do you think amateur radio equipment specifications often use different power units (milliwatts vs watts) depending on the device type?