Ham Radio General Class Practice Test

What is the maximum symbol rate permitted for RTTY or data emission transmissions on the 1.25 meter and 70 centimeter bands?

1. 56 kilobaud

2. 19.6 kilobaud

3. 1200 baud

4. 300 baud

The correct answer is: 56 kilobaud

The maximum symbol rate permitted for RTTY (Radioteletype) or data emission transmissions on the 1.25 meter and 70 centimeter bands is 56 kilobaud. This standard is set by the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) regulations, which govern the operation of amateur radio services in these bands. In this context, a symbol rate of 56 kilobaud means that the transmission can send 56,000 signal changes per second. The rationale behind this limit is to ensure efficient use of the spectrum while allowing high-speed data transmissions that are common in modern amateur radio practices. The other options represent lower symbol rates that would not be allowed under current regulations for these bands. For example, while 19.6 kilobaud, 1200 baud, and 300 baud are relevant in different contexts or for certain other frequency bands or modes, they do not apply to the maximum allowed rates on the 1.25 meter and 70 centimeter bands. Thus, 56 kilobaud is the correct and permissible maximum for data emissions in this situation.