Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2024-2028 Question Pool | Topic: E4D
E4D09E4D

What is the purpose of the preselector in a communications receiver?

Deep Dive: E4D09

The correct answer is C: To increase the rejection of signals outside the band being received. What is the purpose of the preselector in a communications receiver is to increase the rejection of signals outside the band being received. Preselectors filter out-of-band signals. For amateur radio operators, this is important for receiver performance. Understanding this helps when using preselectors.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option A: Incorrect. Storing frequencies that are often used isn't the purpose - preselectors filter out-of-band signals. Frequency storage isn't the purpose. Option B: Incorrect. Providing broadband attenuation before first RF stage isn't the purpose - preselectors filter out-of-band signals. Broadband attenuation isn't the purpose. Option D: Incorrect. Allowing selection of optimum RF amplifier device isn't the purpose - preselectors filter out-of-band signals. Device selection isn't the purpose.

Exam Tip

Preselector purpose = increase rejection of signals outside band being received. Think 'P'reselector = 'P'revents 'O'ut-of-'B'and signals. Preselectors filter out-of-band signals. Not frequency storage, not broadband attenuation, not device selection - just out-of-band rejection.

Memory Aid

Preselector purpose = increase rejection of signals outside band being received. Think 'P'reselector = 'O'ut-of-'B'and rejection. Preselectors filter out-of-band signals. Important for receiver performance.

Real-World Example

The preselector in a communications receiver: Its purpose is to increase the rejection of signals outside the band being received. The preselector filters out unwanted frequencies before they enter the receiver, reducing interference. This is the purpose - out-of-band rejection.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2024-2028 Question Pool

Subelement: E4D

Reference: 2024-2028 Question Pool · E4 - Amateur Practices

Key Concepts

Preselector Communications receiver Increase rejection Signals outside band being received

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC Extra Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the E4D topic.