Which component operates at a fairly low peak power?

The interrogator operates at a fairly low peak power due to its role in communication systems, particularly in applications such as radar or communication where it transmits signals to query other devices. The interrogator sends a low-power query signal to devices (like transponders or receivers) to elicit a response without overwhelming the system. This lower power operation is crucial for minimizing interference with other components and preserving battery life in portable devices.

In contrast, other components such as transponders typically require higher power levels to respond back effectively. Receivers are often designed to process incoming signals and may need substantial power to ensure clear reception, especially in environments with a lot of noise. Decoders also require power to convert signals into a usable format, but their peak power demands can be higher than those of an interrogator. Thus, given the operational context and requirements, the interrogator is best characterized by its low peak power consumption compared to the other mentioned components.