Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2024-2028 Question Pool | Topic: E7H
E7H01E7H

What are three common oscillator circuits?

Deep Dive: E7H01

The correct answer is D: Colpitts, Hartley, and Pierce. Three common oscillator circuits are the Colpitts, Hartley, and Pierce oscillators. These are fundamental oscillator topologies used in radio frequency circuits. The Colpitts oscillator uses a capacitive voltage divider for feedback, the Hartley oscillator uses a tapped inductor (autotransformer) for feedback, and the Pierce oscillator uses a crystal for frequency control. These three oscillators are among the most commonly used in amateur radio equipment. They're used in transmitters, receivers, and frequency synthesizers to generate stable RF signals. Each has different characteristics that make them suitable for different applications.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option A: Incorrect. 'Taft' is not a standard oscillator circuit name. The correct combination is Colpitts, Hartley, and Pierce. Option B: Incorrect. 'Fenner' and 'Beane' are not standard oscillator circuit names. The correct names are Colpitts, Hartley, and Pierce. Option C: Incorrect. 'Taft' is not a standard oscillator circuit. The correct combination is Colpitts, Hartley, and Pierce.

Exam Tip

Common oscillators = Colpitts, Hartley, Pierce. Remember: The three common oscillator circuits are Colpitts (capacitive divider), Hartley (tapped inductor), and Pierce (crystal).

Memory Aid

**C**ommon **O**scillators = **C**olpitts, **H**artley, **P**ierce (think 'CO = CHP')

Real-World Example

You're building a VFO (Variable Frequency Oscillator) for your transmitter. You might use a Colpitts oscillator for its simplicity and good frequency stability. For crystal-controlled oscillators, you'd use a Pierce oscillator. The Hartley oscillator is another option that uses a tapped coil for feedback. These three are the workhorses of RF oscillator design.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2024-2028 Question Pool

Subelement: E7H

Reference: FCC Part 97.3

Key Concepts

Oscillator circuits Colpitts Hartley Pierce

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC Extra Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the E7H topic.