ARRL Technician Practice Exam

What qualifies as harmful interference according to the FCC?

1. Minor disruptions to any signal

2. Signal loss in non-essential communications

3. Interference that degrades or obstructs radio communications

4. Interference detected only by specialized equipment

The correct answer is: Interference that degrades or obstructs radio communications

Harmful interference, as defined by the FCC, refers specifically to interference that degrades or obstructs the communication of radio signals. This means that if a radio transmission is affected in such a way that it reduces the clarity or effectiveness of the communication, it falls under the category of harmful interference. This definition encompasses situations where important information cannot be conveyed due to other signals disrupting the intended message. It is significant because the FCC aims to ensure that radio communications can operate without detrimental interruptions, especially in essential services like public safety, aviation, and emergency communications. In contrast, minor disruptions to any signal would not typically reach the threshold of harmful interference, as they might not significantly affect the communication. Signal loss in non-essential communications also would not qualify unless it impacts a regulated communication. Additionally, interference detected only by specialized equipment does not necessarily mean that it causes harmful effects in standard communication scenarios, as harmful interference must be observable in practical terms by the users.