Ham Radio Extra Class Practice Test 2026 - Free Extra Class License Exam Questions and Study Guide

Question: 1 / 400

What does the term "SWR" represent in ham radio operations?

Signal Wave Ratio

Standing Wave Ratio

The term "SWR" in ham radio operations stands for "Standing Wave Ratio." It is a crucial metric used to assess the efficiency of an antenna system. SWR measures the ratio of the amplitude of standing waves to the amplitude of the waves that are moving away from the antenna.

In a well-matched system where the antenna is effectively radiating the RF (radio frequency) energy, the SWR will be low, indicating that most of the transmitted power is being used efficiently. Conversely, a high SWR indicates that a substantial amount of power is being reflected back towards the transmitter, which can lead to inefficiencies and potential damage to the transmitter.

Understanding SWR is essential for amateur radio operators because it directly impacts the performance of their station and equipment. Properly managing SWR ensures better communication quality and extends the life of the transmitting equipment.

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Signal Wave Response

Standing Wave Response

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