FCC Exam Question: 3-9B1
What value of series resistor would be needed to obtain a full scale deflection on a 50 microamp DC meter with an applied voltage of 200 volts DC?
Explanation: To determine the necessary series resistance, we apply Ohm's Law, which states that resistance ($R$) equals voltage ($V$) divided by current ($I$). In this case, we need to create a voltmeter where the total resistance in the circuit limits the current to the meter's full-scale deflection current at the desired maximum voltage. The formula is: $R = V / I$ Given: * $V = 200$ volts DC * $I = 50$ microamperes DC ($50 \times 10^{-6}$ Amperes) Substitute the values: $R = 200 \text{ V} / (50 \times 10^{-6} \text{ A})$ $R = 4 \times 10^6 \text{ ohms}$ $R = 4 \text{ megohms}$ This 4 megohm resistor, placed in series with the 50 microampere meter, will allow exactly 50 microamperes to flow when 200 volts are applied across the combination, thus giving a full-scale deflection. Options B, C, and D are incorrect as they would result in different current values for the same applied voltage, or require different voltages for full-scale deflection with the 50 microamp meter.
3-80L5
3-7A5
3-21C2
3-19C4
3-57H4
Pass Your FCC Exam!
Study offline, track your progress, and simulate real exams with the GMDSS Trainer app.
Includes Elements 1, 3, 6, 7R, 8, and 9.