Master the Waves: Ham Radio Extra Class 2026 Practice Test – Tune In and Transmit Success!

The term "splatter" in amateur radio specifically refers to unwanted signal transmission that extends beyond the intended bandwidth of a transmission. This phenomenon typically occurs when a transmitter is poorly tuned, misconfigured, or when excessive modulation occurs, causing the signal to spread out over a wider frequency range than what was intended.

This can interfere with communications on adjacent channels, creating noise and reducing the quality of communications for others in the area. Properly tuning equipment and adhering to bandwidth limitations can help minimize splatter and ensure cleaner, more efficient communications.

The other options relate to different concepts in the realm of radio communications. Intended signal transmission refers to correctly rastered transmissions without interference. Radiation interference steers towards the impact of emitted electromagnetic fields on other electronic devices. Signal loss is generally related to performance issues within the equipment itself, such as hardware faults or degradation. Each of these reflects different aspects of radio communication and does not accurately capture the definition of “splatter.”