Deep Dive: E4B01
The correct answer is B: Time base accuracy. Which of the following factors most affects the accuracy of a frequency counter is time base accuracy. The time base (reference oscillator) determines frequency counter accuracy. For amateur radio operators, this is important for test equipment. Understanding this helps when using frequency counters.
Why Other Answers Are Wrong
Option A: Incorrect. Input attenuator accuracy doesn't most affect accuracy - time base accuracy does. Attenuator isn't the most important. Option C: Incorrect. Decade divider accuracy doesn't most affect accuracy - time base accuracy does. Divider isn't the most important. Option D: Incorrect. Temperature coefficient of logic doesn't most affect accuracy - time base accuracy does. Temperature coefficient isn't the most important.
Exam Tip
Frequency counter accuracy most affected by = time base accuracy. Think 'F'requency 'C'ounter 'A'ccuracy = 'T'ime 'B'ase 'A'ccuracy. The time base (reference oscillator) determines frequency counter accuracy. Not attenuator, not divider, not temperature - just time base.
Memory Aid
Frequency counter accuracy most affected by = time base accuracy. Think 'F'requency 'C'ounter = 'T'ime 'B'ase. The time base (reference oscillator) determines frequency counter accuracy. Important for test equipment.
Real-World Example
A frequency counter: Its accuracy is most affected by time base accuracy. The time base is the reference oscillator used for counting. If the time base is inaccurate, all frequency measurements will be inaccurate. This is the factor - time base accuracy most affects counter accuracy.
Source & Coverage
Question Pool: 2024-2028 Question Pool
Subelement: E4B
Reference: 2024-2028 Question Pool · E4 - Amateur Practices
Key Concepts
Verified Content
Question from the official FCC Extra Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the E4B topic.