What is a disadvantage of using a handheld VHF transceiver with a flexible antenna inside a vehicle?

• A. Signal strength is reduced due to the shielding effect of the vehicle
• B. The antenna creates interference with the vehicle's electronics
• C. The signal can only be transmitted over short distances
• D. It is not safe to operate the radio inside a vehicle

Answer: (A)

When using a handheld VHF transceiver with a flexible antenna inside a vehicle, the primary disadvantage stems from the vehicle's design and material. The metal body of the vehicle can act as a shield, which reduces the effective strength of the radio signal. This is known as the "shielding effect." It can significantly hinder the performance of the VHF radio, resulting in weaker transmission and reception compared to using an external antenna.

The other options present less impactful scenarios. Interference with vehicle electronics can occur in some cases, but it is not a common issue strictly related to using a flexible antenna inside a car. While signal range may be impacted due to the shielding, it is not accurate to claim that signals can only be transmitted over short distances as that largely depends on the conditions, antenna quality, and power output. Operating a radio inside a vehicle is generally safe as long as it complies with local laws and regulations, so this option does not adequately represent the disadvantages associated with the original set-up.