Deep Dive: G2E04
The correct answer is D: Find a clear frequency during the alternate time slot to the calling station. Good practice when choosing a transmitting frequency to answer a station calling CQ using FT8 is to find a clear frequency during the alternate time slot to the calling station. FT8 uses time slots, and you should transmit in the opposite slot from the calling station. For amateur radio operators, this prevents collisions and ensures successful contacts. Understanding this helps when operating FT8.
Why Other Answers Are Wrong
Option A: Incorrect. Calling on the station's frequency would cause interference - you need to use a different frequency in the alternate time slot. Option B: Incorrect. Calling on any frequency in the waterfall except the station's frequency doesn't account for time slots - you need to use the alternate time slot. Option C: Incorrect. Finding a clear frequency during the same time slot would cause collisions - you need the alternate time slot.
Exam Tip
Answer FT8 CQ = clear frequency in alternate time slot. Think 'F'T8 = 'F'ind 'T'ransmit frequency in 'A'lternate 'T'ime slot. Use a different frequency in the opposite time slot from the calling station. Not same frequency, not same time slot - alternate time slot on different frequency.
Memory Aid
Answer FT8 CQ = clear frequency in alternate time slot. Think 'F'T8 = 'F'ind 'T'ransmit in 'A'lternate 'T'ime slot. Use a different frequency in the opposite time slot from the calling station. Prevents collisions in FT8 operation.
Real-World Example
A station calls CQ on FT8 at 14.074 MHz during the even time slot. You find a clear frequency (e.g., 14.075 MHz) and transmit during the odd time slot (alternate slot). This prevents collisions and ensures the calling station can receive your response. Using the same time slot or same frequency would cause interference.
Source & Coverage
Question Pool: 2023-2027 Question Pool
Subelement: G2E
Reference: 2023-2027 Question Pool · G2 - Operating Procedures
Key Concepts
Verified Content
Question from the official FCC General Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the G2E topic.