ARRL Technician Practice Exam

What might be a consequence of using a coaxial cable with high loss at the intended frequency?

1. Improved signal clarity

2. Reduced transmission range

3. Higher power consumption

4. Increased SWR value

The correct answer is: Reduced transmission range

Using a coaxial cable with high loss at the intended frequency primarily results in reduced transmission range. This occurs because high loss indicates that a significant amount of the signal power is dissipated as heat while traversing the cable, rather than being transmitted effectively to the antenna. As a result, the amount of power that actually reaches the antenna is diminished, leading to a weaker signal being radiated into the intended coverage area. This ultimately shortens the range of communication, as the signal may not travel as far or be strong enough to reach the receiver effectively. The other consequences like improved signal clarity, higher power consumption, or an increased standing wave ratio (SWR) are not directly associated with the use of a high-loss coaxial cable. Improved signal clarity typically relates to better quality transmission lines or handling, while higher power consumption would generally stem from needing more power to compensate for the loss, rather than being a direct result of a high loss in the cable. Likewise, SWR is influenced more by impedance mismatches rather than loss in the cable itself.