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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ham-broadcast-radio-overload

What receiver problem can make broadcast radio pick up an out-of-band ham signal?

The receiver can't reject strong signals outside its band.

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  1. It can't reject strong signals outside its band ✔
  2. The ham's mic gain is set too high
  3. The ham's FM deviation is set too low

Why: Many broadcast receivers have weak filters. A strong ham signal nearby can overload them even though it is on a different frequency.

Huh, didn't know that: This is called fundamental overload: the receiver is swamped by the ham's main signal itself.

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The kitchen radio started talking about antennas. Guess it overheard the neighbor.
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References

Answer: It can't reject strong signals outside its band. Many broadcast receivers have weak filters. A strong ham signal nearby can overload them even though it is on a different frequency.

  1. NCVEC 2026-2030 Technician Question Pool (February 19, 2026 errata) ncvec.org/downloads/2026-2030%20Technician%20Pool%20and%20Syllabus%20Public%20Release%20Feb%2019%202026.pdf
    A. The receiver is unable to reject strong signals outside the AM or FM band
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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