*Question G4D02:
How does a speech processor affect a single sideband phone signal?*  

*Correct Answer is  B: It increases average power*  

### AI Response: (may contain errors)  

A speech processor is a device used in single sideband (SSB) phone signals to enhance the quality and intelligibility of the transmitted audio. 

### Correct Answer: B - It increases average power

1. **Why the correct answer is correct:**
   - A speech processor works by compressing the dynamic range of the audio signal. This means it raises the level of quieter sounds and reduces the level of louder sounds, effectively allowing more of the audio signal to be transmitted at a higher average power level. 
   - By increasing the average power of the signal, the speech processor helps to improve the signal-to-noise ratio, making the transmission clearer and more intelligible.

### Why the other choices are incorrect:

- **A: It increases peak power**
  - While a speech processor can affect the peak levels of the audio signal, its primary function is to increase the average power rather than the peak power. The peaks may be limited to prevent distortion, so this choice is misleading.

- **C: It reduces harmonic distortion**
  - A speech processor does not specifically target harmonic distortion. Its main role is to manage the dynamic range of the audio signal. Harmonic distortion is more related to the linearity of the transmitter and the quality of the audio processing equipment.

- **D: It reduces intermodulation distortion**
  - Intermodulation distortion occurs when two or more signals mix in a non-linear way, creating unwanted frequencies. A speech processor does not directly address intermodulation distortion; it focuses on audio signal processing. 

### Summary:
- A speech processor increases the average power of a single sideband phone signal by compressing the dynamic range of the audio, enhancing clarity and intelligibility. The other options do not accurately describe the primary function of a speech processor.