Deep Dive: E0A10
The correct answer is A: An evaluation must always be performed. When operating an amateur station on 80 meters, an RF exposure evaluation must always be performed. There are no automatic exemptions for 80-meter operation. FCC rules require RF exposure evaluation for amateur stations, and 80-meter operation is not exempt. Even low-power 80-meter stations require evaluation, though the evaluation may show that exposure is below limits and no mitigation is needed. The evaluation is required to determine whether MPE limits are exceeded and what mitigation (if any) is needed. There's no blanket exemption for 80 meters based on power level, mode, or other factors. The evaluation must be performed, though it may conclude that no action is needed if exposure is below limits.
Why Other Answers Are Wrong
Option B: Incorrect. There's no exemption for stations with ERP less than 10 watts. An evaluation is still required, though it may show exposure is below limits. Option C: Incorrect. There's no exemption for CW mode. All modes require evaluation. Option D: Incorrect. There's no exemption for stations with less than 100 watts output. An evaluation is always required.
Exam Tip
80m RF exposure = Evaluation always required. Remember: An RF exposure evaluation must always be performed for amateur stations operating on 80 meters. There are no automatic exemptions, though the evaluation may show no mitigation is needed.
Memory Aid
**8**0m **R**F **E**xposure = **A**lways **E**valuate (think '80mRE = AE')
Real-World Example
You operate a 50-watt 80-meter station. You must perform an RF exposure evaluation. You calculate the exposure levels and find they're well below MPE limits, so no mitigation is needed. But you still had to do the evaluation - it's always required. The evaluation shows you're compliant, but you can't skip the evaluation step.
Source & Coverage
Question Pool: 2024-2028 Question Pool
Subelement: E0A
Reference: FCC Part 97.13
Key Concepts
Verified Content
Question from the official FCC Extra Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the E0A topic.