What is a critical outcome of not regularly calibrating a transmitter?

Regular calibration of a transmitter is essential to maintain its proper functioning and performance. One critical outcome of neglecting to calibrate a transmitter is an increased risk of frequency drift. Frequency drift refers to the gradual shifting of a transmitter's operating frequency from the designated frequency, which can lead to interference with other communication systems and degrade the quality of signals being transmitted. This drift occurs due to several factors, including temperature changes, aging components, and the inherent characteristics of the electronic parts used in the transmitter.

Inaccurate frequency can result in significant communication issues, such as missed transmissions or inability to connect with intended frequencies, which is crucial for effective operation in radio transmissions. Therefore, regular calibration ensures that the transmitter remains within its specified frequency range, avoiding these detrimental outcomes.