Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2023-2027 Question Pool | Topic: G7C
G7C02G7C

What output is produced by a balanced modulator?

Deep Dive: G7C02

The correct answer is D: Double-sideband modulated RF. The output produced by a balanced modulator is double-sideband modulated RF. Balanced modulators suppress the carrier and produce only the two sidebands (USB and LSB). For amateur radio operators, this is the first step in SSB generation. Understanding this helps when designing SSB transmitters.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option A: Incorrect. Balanced modulators don't produce frequency modulated RF - they produce amplitude-modulated sidebands, not FM. FM is different. Option B: Incorrect. Balanced modulators don't produce audio with equalized frequency response - they produce RF sidebands, not audio. Audio equalization isn't the output. Option C: Incorrect. Balanced modulators don't extract audio from modulation signal - they produce RF sidebands. Audio extraction is for receivers, not modulators.

Exam Tip

Balanced modulator output = double-sideband modulated RF. Think 'B'alanced 'M'odulator = 'B'oth 'M'odulation sidebands. Balanced modulators suppress carrier and produce only the two sidebands (USB and LSB). Not FM, not audio, not audio extraction - just double-sideband RF.

Memory Aid

Balanced modulator output = double-sideband modulated RF. Think 'B'alanced 'M'odulator = 'B'oth 'M'odulation sidebands. Balanced modulators suppress carrier and produce only the two sidebands. First step in SSB generation.

Real-World Example

A balanced modulator: Audio input modulates a carrier, but the carrier is suppressed. The output contains only the upper and lower sidebands (double-sideband, suppressed carrier). This is the first step in SSB generation - next, a filter selects one sideband. Balanced modulators produce double-sideband output.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2023-2027 Question Pool

Subelement: G7C

Reference: 2023-2027 Question Pool · G7 - Practical Circuits

Key Concepts

Balanced modulator Double-sideband Modulated RF SSB generation

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC General Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the G7C topic.