Deep Dive: T1B10
The correct answer is C: In at least some segment of all these bands. SSB (Single Sideband) phone can be used in at least some portion of all amateur bands above 50 MHz, including 6 meters, 2 meters, 1.25 meters, 70 centimeters, and higher bands. According to FCC Part 97.305, SSB phone is permitted on various segments of VHF and UHF bands. SSB is an efficient voice mode that's popular on HF bands and is also used on VHF and UHF bands, particularly for weak-signal work and long-distance contacts. While FM is more common on VHF/UHF for local communications, SSB provides better performance for DX (long-distance) contacts and weak-signal work. Different bands have different allocations for SSB, but every band above 50 MHz has at least some segment where SSB phone is permitted.
Why Other Answers Are Wrong
Option A: Incorrect. SSB phone is not limited to General class or higher sub-bands. Technician licensees can use SSB on VHF/UHF bands within their privileges. Option B: Incorrect. SSB phone is not limited to repeaters. SSB is primarily a simplex mode used for direct communication, not through repeaters. Option D: Incorrect. Power limitations don't restrict which bands SSB can be used on. SSB can be used on multiple bands above 50 MHz regardless of power level (within legal limits).
Exam Tip
SSB above 50 MHz = Available on all bands. Remember: SSB phone can be used in at least some segment of every amateur band above 50 MHz. It's not limited to specific license classes or repeaters.
Memory Aid
**S**SB **A**bove **5**0 = **S**omewhere on **A**ll bands (think 'SA5 = SA' = Somewhere on All)
Real-World Example
You're operating on 6 meters (50-54 MHz) using SSB on 50.125 MHz. Later, you switch to 2 meters and use SSB on 144.200 MHz for a weak-signal contact. Then you move to 70 centimeters and use SSB on 432.100 MHz. In each case, you're using SSB phone, which is permitted in at least some segment of each of these bands above 50 MHz.
Source & Coverage
Question Pool: 2022-2026 Question Pool
Subelement: T1B
Reference: FCC Part 97.305
Key Concepts
Verified Content
Question from the official FCC Technician Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the T1B topic.