A dummy load is a device designed to simulate the electrical characteristics of an actual load, such as an antenna or a loudspeaker, without performing the final function. It converts the electrical energy entirely into heat rather than radiating RF energy or producing sound. This allows technicians to safely test and tune high-power transmitters or audio amplifiers without broadcasting interference or deafening the shop.
Heard on the job
Hook the amplifier output to the dummy load before you crank the bias, or you'll blow the bench speakers.
Also heard as
- artificial antenna