What is the FCC Part 97 definition of a beacon?

What is the FCC Part 97 definition of a beacon?

• A. A station that transmits emergency alerts
• B. An amateur station transmitting communications for observation or related experimental activities
• C. A station broadcasting music and entertainment
• D. A station designed for continuous operation at high power

Answer: (B)

The correct answer defines a beacon as an amateur station that transmits communications for observation or related experimental activities. In the context of amateur radio, beacons are used primarily to send out signals for the purpose of experimental observation, propagation studies, and other forms of scientific investigation. They typically operate on specific frequencies and provide a continuous signal that can be used by radio operators to determine conditions and potential communication opportunities on that frequency. Other options refer to types of stations or functions not aligned with the FCC Part 97 definition of a beacon. For instance, a station transmitting emergency alerts focuses on public safety and emergency communications, which is outside the scope of beacon operations in amateur radio. Similarly, a station broadcasting music and entertainment does not fit the intended use of an amateur radio beacon, as beacons do not engage in entertainment broadcasting. The mention of a station designed for continuous operation at high power is misleading; while beacons do operate continuously, the focus is more on their purpose related to observation and experimentation rather than on power output.

The correct answer defines a beacon as an amateur station that transmits communications for observation or related experimental activities. In the context of amateur radio, beacons are used primarily to send out signals for the purpose of experimental observation, propagation studies, and other forms of scientific investigation. They typically operate on specific frequencies and provide a continuous signal that can be used by radio operators to determine conditions and potential communication opportunities on that frequency.

Other options refer to types of stations or functions not aligned with the FCC Part 97 definition of a beacon. For instance, a station transmitting emergency alerts focuses on public safety and emergency communications, which is outside the scope of beacon operations in amateur radio. Similarly, a station broadcasting music and entertainment does not fit the intended use of an amateur radio beacon, as beacons do not engage in entertainment broadcasting. The mention of a station designed for continuous operation at high power is misleading; while beacons do operate continuously, the focus is more on their purpose related to observation and experimentation rather than on power output.