What is a grid locator?

What is a grid locator?

• A. A system for tracking satellite positions
• B. A method of signal strength measurement
• C. A letter-number designator assigned to a geographic location
• D. A group of radio frequencies for emergency use

Answer: (C)

A grid locator is a letter-number designator assigned to a geographic location. It is part of a standardized system used in amateur radio and other fields of radio communication to identify a specific location on the Earth's surface. This system divides the world into grid squares based on geographic coordinates, allowing operators to pinpoint their location easily and share it with others. For example, a grid locator might be expressed as something like "FN31pr," which gives essential information about where a station is situated. This is particularly useful for activities like contests and expeditions, where knowing each station's location helps operators connect and enhance their communication effectiveness. The other options, while related to different aspects of radio technology and operations, do not accurately describe what a grid locator is. Tracking satellite positions is separate and pertains to satellite operations, signal strength measurement does not incorporate geographic designators, and emergency frequency allocations are unrelated to geographic identifiers.

A grid locator is a letter-number designator assigned to a geographic location. It is part of a standardized system used in amateur radio and other fields of radio communication to identify a specific location on the Earth's surface. This system divides the world into grid squares based on geographic coordinates, allowing operators to pinpoint their location easily and share it with others. For example, a grid locator might be expressed as something like "FN31pr," which gives essential information about where a station is situated. This is particularly useful for activities like contests and expeditions, where knowing each station's location helps operators connect and enhance their communication effectiveness.

The other options, while related to different aspects of radio technology and operations, do not accurately describe what a grid locator is. Tracking satellite positions is separate and pertains to satellite operations, signal strength measurement does not incorporate geographic designators, and emergency frequency allocations are unrelated to geographic identifiers.