Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2024-2028 Question Pool | Topic: E4E
E4E01E4E

What problem can occur when using an automatic notch filter (ANF) to remove interfering carriers while receiving CW signals?

Deep Dive: E4E01

The correct answer is A: Removal of the CW signal as well as the interfering carrier. What problem can occur when using an automatic notch filter (ANF) to remove interfering carriers while receiving CW signals is removal of the CW signal as well as the interfering carrier. ANF can remove desired signals if they're close to interference. For amateur radio operators, this is important for receiver operation. Understanding this helps when using notch filters.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option B: Incorrect. Nearby signal passing through DSP overwhelming desired signal isn't the problem - ANF removing CW signal is the problem. DSP overwhelming isn't the problem. Option C: Incorrect. Excessive ringing isn't the problem - ANF removing CW signal is the problem. Excessive ringing isn't the problem. Option D: Incorrect. Since B and C are not correct, 'all of the above' cannot be correct. Only removal of CW signal is the problem.

Exam Tip

ANF problem with CW = removal of CW signal as well as interfering carrier. Think 'A'NF 'C'W = 'A'utomatic 'N'otch 'F'ilter 'C'uts 'W'anted signal. ANF can remove desired signals if they're close to interference. Not DSP overwhelming, not excessive ringing - just removal of CW signal.

Memory Aid

ANF problem with CW = removal of CW signal as well as interfering carrier. Think 'A'NF 'C'W = 'R'emoves 'C'W too. ANF can remove desired signals if they're close to interference. Important for receiver operation.

Real-World Example

Using an automatic notch filter (ANF) to remove interfering carriers while receiving CW: A problem that can occur is removal of the CW signal as well as the interfering carrier. If the CW signal is close in frequency to the interference, the ANF might remove both. This is the problem - removal of CW signal.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2024-2028 Question Pool

Subelement: E4E

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

Key Concepts

Automatic notch filter ANF Remove interfering carriers Receiving CW signals Removal of CW signal

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC Extra Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the E4E topic.