Ham Radio General Class Practice Test

Which of the following modes is most commonly used for voice communications on the 160, 75, and 40 meter bands?

1. Upper sideband

2. Lower sideband

3. Vestigial sideband

4. Double sideband

The correct answer is: Lower sideband

The most commonly used mode for voice communications on the 160, 75, and 40 meter bands is lower sideband (LSB). This preference is primarily due to the characteristics of the bands themselves and the conventions established in amateur radio practice. In the lower frequency bands, including 160, 75, and 40 meters, lower sideband is employed because it tends to provide clearer signal reception and improved intelligibility for voice communications. LSB allows for more efficient use of bandwidth since it filters out unwanted noise and interference more effectively compared to other modes like upper sideband (USB). Additionally, the use of LSB on these bands is widely accepted and practiced within the amateur radio community, making it the standard for voice communication in these frequency ranges. Other modes, such as double sideband or vestigial sideband, are less common for this purpose, as they do not offer the same level of efficiency or clarity in communication.