Deep Dive: T1E08
The correct answer is A: Repeater operation. According to FCC Part 97.3(a)(6), automatic control is a method of station control where the control operator is not required to be present at the control point. Repeater operation is the primary example of automatic control, where the repeater automatically receives and retransmits signals without requiring a human operator to be present. Repeaters operate under automatic control because they function automatically based on received signals - they don't need a human operator to make decisions about each transmission. The control operator is still responsible for the repeater's overall operation and compliance, but they don't need to be physically present or make decisions about individual transmissions. This allows repeaters to operate 24/7 without constant human supervision.
Why Other Answers Are Wrong
Option B: Incorrect. Controlling a station over the internet is remote control, not automatic control. Remote control still requires a human operator making decisions. Option C: Incorrect. Using a computer to send CW automatically is not automatic control by itself. This would typically be under manual or remote control. Option D: Incorrect. Using a computer to identify automatically is just an automation feature, not automatic control. The station would still be under manual or remote control.
Exam Tip
Automatic control = Repeater operation. Remember: Repeaters are the primary example of automatic control - they operate automatically without requiring a human operator to be present for each transmission.
Memory Aid
**A**utomatic **C**ontrol = **A**utomatic **R**epeater (think 'AC = AR' = Automatic Repeater)
Real-World Example
Your local 2-meter repeater operates 24 hours a day, automatically receiving signals on 146.160 MHz and retransmitting them on 146.760 MHz. No human operator needs to be present for each transmission - the repeater functions automatically. This is automatic control. The repeater trustee is still the control operator and responsible for the repeater's compliance, but they don't need to be present for each transmission.
Source & Coverage
Question Pool: 2022-2026 Question Pool
Subelement: T1E
Reference: FCC Part 97.3(a)(6)
Key Concepts
Verified Content
Question from the official FCC Technician Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the T1E topic.