Deep Dive: G7A01
The correct answer is B: It discharges the filter capacitors when power is removed. The function of a power supply bleeder resistor is to discharge the filter capacitors when power is removed. Bleeder resistors provide a discharge path, preventing dangerous stored voltage. For amateur radio operators, this is a critical safety feature. Understanding this helps ensure safe power supply operation.
Why Other Answers Are Wrong
Option A: Incorrect. Bleeder resistors don't act as fuses - fuses protect against overcurrent, not voltage. Bleeder resistors are for discharge, not protection. Option C: Incorrect. Bleeder resistors don't remove shock hazards from induction coils - they discharge capacitors, not coils. Coils aren't the issue. Option D: Incorrect. Bleeder resistors don't eliminate ground loop current - ground loops are about multiple ground paths, not capacitor discharge. Ground loops are different.
Exam Tip
Bleeder resistor function = discharges filter capacitors when power removed. Think 'B'leeder 'R'esistor = 'B'leeds 'R'esidual charge. Provides discharge path for filter capacitors, preventing dangerous stored voltage. Not fuse, not coil safety, not ground loop - just capacitor discharge.
Memory Aid
Bleeder resistor function = discharges filter capacitors when power removed. Think 'B'leeder 'R'esistor = 'B'leeds 'R'esidual. Provides discharge path for filter capacitors, preventing dangerous stored voltage. Critical safety feature.
Real-World Example
You turn off your power supply. The filter capacitors still hold charge (dangerous voltage). The bleeder resistor provides a discharge path, safely draining the capacitors. Without a bleeder resistor, capacitors could hold dangerous voltage for minutes or hours. This is a critical safety feature.
Source & Coverage
Question Pool: 2023-2027 Question Pool
Subelement: G7A
Reference: 2023-2027 Question Pool · G7 - Practical Circuits
Key Concepts
Verified Content
Question from the official FCC General Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the G7A topic.