Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2023-2027 Question Pool | Topic: G4B
G4B04G4B

What signal source is connected to the vertical input of an oscilloscope when checking the RF envelope pattern of a transmitted signal?

Deep Dive: G4B04

The correct answer is D: The attenuated RF output of the transmitter. The signal source connected to the vertical input of an oscilloscope when checking the RF envelope pattern of a transmitted signal is the attenuated RF output of the transmitter. You need to attenuate the RF output to a safe level for the oscilloscope. For amateur radio operators, this is how you monitor transmitted signals. Understanding this helps when checking transmitter output.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option A: Incorrect. Local oscillator output isn't the RF envelope - that's an internal signal, not the transmitted signal. You need the actual RF output. Option B: Incorrect. External RF oscillator isn't needed - you want to check your transmitter's output, not an external signal. External oscillator doesn't show your transmitter's envelope. Option C: Incorrect. Balanced mixer output isn't the RF envelope - that's an internal signal before final amplification. You need the final RF output.

Exam Tip

Check RF envelope = attenuated RF output of transmitter. Think 'R'F 'E'nvelope = 'R'F 'E'xit (output) attenuated. Connect attenuated RF output of transmitter to oscilloscope vertical input. Not local oscillator, external oscillator, or mixer - just attenuated RF output.

Memory Aid

Check RF envelope = attenuated RF output of transmitter. Think 'R'F 'E'nvelope = 'R'F 'E'xit attenuated. Connect attenuated RF output to oscilloscope vertical input. Must attenuate RF to safe level for oscilloscope.

Real-World Example

You want to check the RF envelope pattern of your transmitter. You connect the attenuated RF output (using a proper RF attenuator) to the oscilloscope's vertical input. The oscilloscope displays the RF envelope, showing you modulation characteristics. The RF must be attenuated to a safe level for the oscilloscope.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2023-2027 Question Pool

Subelement: G4B

Reference: 2023-2027 Question Pool · G4 - Amateur Radio Practices

Key Concepts

Oscilloscope RF envelope pattern Attenuated RF output Transmitter monitoring

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC General Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the G4B topic.