G1B11: Good engineering practice: Who or what determines “good engineering

Q: Who or what determines “good engineering and good amateur practice,” as applied to the operation of an amateur station in all respects not covered by the Part 97 rules?

The correct answer is A: The FCC. The correct answer is A: The FCC. The FCC determines 'good engineering and good amateur practice' as applied to the operation of an amateur station in all respects not covered by Part 97 rules. While the FCC doesn't define every detail, it's the FCC that interprets and enforces what constitutes good practice. For amateur radio operators, this means following established engineering principles and operating practices that the FCC recognizes. Understanding this helps ensure compliance with both written rules and unwritten standards.

Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2023-2027 Question Pool | Topic: G1B

G1B11G1B

Who or what determines “good engineering and good amateur practice,” as applied to the operation of an amateur station in all respects not covered by the Part 97 rules?

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Deep Dive: G1B11

The correct answer is A: The FCC. The FCC determines 'good engineering and good amateur practice' as applied to the operation of an amateur station in all respects not covered by Part 97 rules. While the FCC doesn't define every detail, it's the FCC that interprets and enforces what constitutes good practice. For amateur radio operators, this means following established engineering principles and operating practices that the FCC recognizes. Understanding this helps ensure compliance with both written rules and unwritten standards.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option B (Control operator): Incorrect. While the control operator must follow good practice, it's the FCC that determines what constitutes good practice. The operator follows FCC standards. Option C (IEEE): Incorrect. IEEE sets engineering standards, but it's the FCC that determines what's acceptable for amateur radio operation. IEEE standards may inform but don't determine amateur practice. Option D (ITU): Incorrect. ITU sets international radio regulations, but it's the FCC that determines good practice for US amateur operations. ITU doesn't define US amateur practice.

Exam Tip

Good engineering/practice = determined by FCC. Think 'F'CC = 'F'inal 'C'ontrol. FCC determines what constitutes good engineering and good amateur practice for US amateur stations. Not control operator, IEEE, or ITU - FCC has the authority.

Memory Aid

Good engineering/practice = determined by FCC. Think 'F'CC = 'F'inal 'C'ontrol. FCC determines what constitutes good engineering and good amateur practice. Authority to interpret and enforce standards beyond specific rules.

Real-World Example

You operate in a way that's technically legal under Part 97 but creates interference. The FCC can cite you for not following 'good amateur practice' even if no specific rule is violated. The FCC determines what constitutes good practice based on established engineering principles and operating standards. This gives the FCC flexibility to address situations not specifically covered by rules.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2023-2027 Question Pool

Subelement: G1B

Reference: 2023-2027 Question Pool · G1 - Commission's Rules

Key Concepts

Good engineering practice Good amateur practice FCC authority Operating standards

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC General Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the G1B topic.