GeneralG8C14

Which of the following describes a waterfall display?

C
Answer
Signals and emissions
Type
A
Frequency is horizontal, signal strength is vertical, time is intensity
B
Frequency is vertical, signal strength is intensity, time is horizontal
C
Frequency is horizontal, signal strength is intensity, time is vertical
D
Frequency is vertical, signal strength is horizontal, time is intensity

Answer Notes

A waterfall display is a dynamic graphical representation of the radio spectrum over time. The x-axis (horizontal) represents the frequency, allowing you to see exactly where signals are located across a specific band segment. To represent how strong a signal is without using a third 3D spatial axis, the display uses color or brightness intensity. Brighter or warmer colors indicate stronger signals. Finally, the y-axis (vertical) represents time. As new signals are received, the older data scrolls continuously down (or sometimes up) the screen, creating a "waterfall" effect that shows the history of band activity. Other options incorrectly swap these parameters, such as confusing it with an oscilloscope that puts time on the horizontal axis.
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What is indicated on a waterfall display by one or more vertical lines on either side of a data mode or RTTY signal?
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What does an FT8 signal report of +3 mean?