ARRL Technician Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of automatic control?

1. Repeater operation

2. Manual operation

3. Remote operation

4. Local operation

The correct answer is: Repeater operation

Automatic control refers to the ability of a system to operate without direct human intervention, based on pre-set conditions or criteria. In the context of amateur radio, repeater operation serves as a prime example of automatic control. A repeater is designed to automatically receive a signal from a transmitting station, amplify it, and then retransmit it on another frequency. This entire process occurs with minimal human interaction, as repeaters are often set up to operate continuously and can be activated by any authorized radio signal within their range. This setup allows for seamless communication, especially in situations where users may not be present to manually handle their transmissions. The automatic nature of the repeater system perfectly illustrates the concept of automatic control in radio operations. Conversely, the other options involve more human interaction. Manual operation requires an operator to actively engage with the equipment, while remote operation still often denotes a level of human management or adjustment from a distance. Local operation also implies hands-on management by the operator present at the equipment, rather than being automated. Thus, when considering examples of automatic control in amateur radio, repeater operation stands out as the most fitting representation.