Ham Radio General Class Practice Test

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What is the main reason to use keyed connectors instead of non-keyed types?

Prevention of use by unauthorized persons
Reduced chance of incorrect mating
Higher current carrying capacity
All of these choices are correct

The correct answer is: Reduced chance of incorrect mating

The primary reason for using keyed connectors is to reduce the chance of incorrect mating. Keyed connectors are designed in such a way that they can only be connected in a specific orientation or configuration. This inherent design feature prevents users from connecting two components incorrectly, which could lead to malfunction or damage. Incorrect mating can result in a variety of issues, including the short-circuiting of connections, loss of signal integrity, or even physical damage to the connectors. While prevention of use by unauthorized persons and higher current carrying capacity may be important in some contexts, they are not the primary functions of keyed connectors. The design of these connectors focuses mainly on ensuring compatibility through correct alignment, thereby prioritizing operational reliability and equipment protection. Therefore, the emphasis on reducing the risk of incorrect mating is the most critical reason for choosing keyed connectors in various applications.