Ham Radio General Class Practice Test 2026 – Complete Exam Prep

Using Automatic Level Control (ALC) with an RF power amplifier primarily serves to reduce distortion that can occur when the amplifier is driven too hard. When an amplifier is provided with an input signal that exceeds its design limits, it can produce unwanted nonlinearities, causing distortion in the transmitted signal. ALC helps to automatically adjust the gain of the amplifier to ensure that the output remains within the optimal operating range, thereby minimizing distortion. This capability is crucial for maintaining signal clarity and fidelity during transmission, which is vital for effective communication in amateur radio.

The other options, while relevant in certain contexts, do not accurately represent the main purpose of ALC. Balancing audio frequency response or increasing efficiency are not primary functions of ALC. Furthermore, ALC does not specifically target the reduction of harmonic radiation; rather, it focuses on preserving signal integrity by managing distortion levels caused by excessive input drive.