How are Electromagnetic signals specified?

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Electromagnetic signals can be modified in terms of wavelength and amplitude, which are crucial for the functionality of devices like garage door openers. Each wireless device typically operates at a specific frequency, often with slight variations to avoid interference. While multiple devices can share the same frequency, they use unique modulation techniques to transmit distinct codes, ensuring that only the intended device responds. Modern systems often employ digital modulation for efficient spectrum use, allowing multiple controllers to operate on the same frequency without conflict. This approach minimizes the risk of accidental activation by neighboring devices.
jaydnul
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I mean, what all can you modify in an electromagnetic wave? Wavelength and amplitude right? So, for example, why does my garage opener open my garage door and not my neighbor's? Does every single wireless device have its own specified wavelength that is just fractions of meter off from others?
 
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Different types of devices usually have different frequencies (=different wavelengths). Different devices of the same type can have the same frequency: with amplitude modulations, you can transmit a lot of data (like a code to open a specific garage), so multiple devices at the same frequency can still work, if they don't send at the same time at the same location.
 
lundyjb said:
I mean, what all can you modify in an electromagnetic wave? Wavelength and amplitude right? So, for example, why does my garage opener open my garage door and not my neighbor's? Does every single wireless device have its own specified wavelength that is just fractions of meter off from others?
It is rare to use a single frequency (CW, or Carrier Wave) transmission because it does not carry any information (other than the fact that the transmitter is switched on). It is normal to 'Modulate' a Carrier Wave with information - such as TV signals, Sound signals or data. There are many different ways of modulating a CW to carry such information. Amplitude and Frequency Modulation were all that was available until quite recently but nowadays, it is much more efficient use of spectrum space to use digital modulation and there are a myriad systems for this.
At one time, in history, such devices would have been operated at a number of different frequencies but nowadays it is more common to use just a single frequency and a set of digital codes, transmitted on identical frequencies from all controllers but each code applies to just one target system. The codes are complicated enough not to risk chance operation by a different controller. Interference between controllers would not matter as they are only operated in short bursts.
 
I'm working through something and want to make sure I understand the physics. In a system with three wave components at 120° phase separation, the total energy calculation depends on how we treat them: If coherent (add amplitudes first, then square): E = (A₁ + A₂ + A₃)² = 0 If independent (square each, then add): E = A₁² + A₂² + A₃² = 3/2 = constant In three-phase electrical systems, we treat the phases as independent — total power is sum of individual powers. In light interference...

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