Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2024-2028 Question Pool | Topic: E9C
E9C05E9C

What is the purpose of feeding an off-center-fed dipole (OCFD) between the center and one end instead of at the midpoint?

Deep Dive: E9C05

The correct answer is A: To create a similar feed point impedance on multiple bands. The purpose of feeding an off-center-fed dipole (OCFD) between the center and one end instead of at the midpoint is to create a similar feed point impedance on multiple bands. Off-center feeding helps maintain reasonable impedance across different frequencies. A center-fed dipole has different impedances on different bands - it might be 50 ohms on one band but very high or very low on others. By feeding off-center (typically around 1/3 from one end), the impedance becomes more consistent across multiple bands. This makes the OCFD easier to match with a single feed system across multiple bands. The off-center feed point creates a more balanced impedance profile, which is why OCFDs are popular for multi-band operation.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option B: Incorrect. Off-center feeding doesn't suppress off-center lobes. The purpose is impedance matching, not pattern control. Option C: Incorrect. Off-center feeding doesn't make the antenna resonate across a wider range. It helps with impedance matching on multiple bands, not bandwidth. Option D: Incorrect. Off-center feeding doesn't specifically reduce common-mode current. The main purpose is creating similar impedance on multiple bands.

Exam Tip

OCFD purpose = Similar impedance on multiple bands. Remember: Off-center-fed dipoles are fed off-center to create similar feed point impedance on multiple bands, making multi-band operation easier.

Memory Aid

**O**CFD **P**urpose = **S**imilar **I**mpedance **M**ulti-**B**and (think 'OP = SIMB')

Real-World Example

You build an OCFD for 80/40/20 meters. By feeding it about 1/3 from one end instead of at the center, the impedance is more consistent across all three bands (maybe 200-300 ohms on each). This makes it easier to match with a single balun or matching network, compared to a center-fed dipole which might have very different impedances on each band.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2024-2028 Question Pool

Subelement: E9C

Reference: FCC Part 97.3

Key Concepts

Off-center-fed dipole OCFD Feed point impedance Multi-band operation

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC Extra Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the E9C topic.