Question T7B05
From subelement T7 - T7B
How can fundamental overload of a non-amateur radio or TV receiver by an amateur signal be reduced or eliminated?
Why is this correct?
Fundamental overload occurs when a strong amateur signal overwhelms a receiver's front-end circuitry, even on frequencies the receiver isn't tuned to. The solution is blocking the amateur signal with a filter at the affected receiver's antenna input. Options B, C, and D address the transmitter, but fundamental overload is a receiver problem caused by the receiver's inability to reject strong out-of-band signals, not transmitter issues.
Memory tip
Remember the key pattern: fundamental overload is always a receiver-side problem requiring receiver-side solutions. The word 'fundamental' indicates the primary signal itself (not harmonics) is too strong for the receiver to handle, so you must protect the receiver, not modify the transmitter.
Learn more
Fundamental overload demonstrates why Part 97 places responsibility on device manufacturers to design receivers with adequate selectivity. Professional amateur transceivers include front-end filtering and automatic gain control to prevent overload, but consumer electronics often lack these protections. This is why amateur operators should understand both their emission privileges and their neighbors' reception limitations when selecting antenna locations and power levels.
Think about it
Why do you think the solution focuses on the affected receiver rather than requiring the amateur operator to reduce power or change frequencies?