Should you apply AC power before the ARC-231 BIT is complete?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. It does matter
• D. Only after BIT completes

Answer: (B)

Built-In Test runs automatically when the ARC-231 is powered up to verify that the essential subsystems are functioning before you use the radio. It needs to run to completion without being interrupted.

If you apply AC power while the BIT is still in progress, you risk interrupting or restarting the test, which can lead to an inconclusive or failed result and you won’t have a reliable indication that the unit is ready. The safe, correct practice is to let the BIT finish and (usually) pass before proceeding with operation or interfacing with other equipment.

So, you should not apply AC power before the BIT completes; wait for the self-test to finish and show a successful result before continuing.