How are Electromagnetic signals specified?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the specification of electromagnetic signals, emphasizing the importance of wavelength and amplitude in wireless communication. It explains that different devices operate on distinct frequencies, which allows them to function without interference, even when transmitting simultaneously. The conversation highlights the evolution from analog modulation techniques, such as Amplitude Modulation (AM) and Frequency Modulation (FM), to modern digital modulation methods that efficiently utilize spectrum space. It concludes that contemporary wireless devices often share frequencies but employ unique digital codes to prevent cross-activation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic wave properties, specifically wavelength and amplitude.
  • Familiarity with modulation techniques, including Amplitude Modulation (AM) and Frequency Modulation (FM).
  • Knowledge of digital modulation methods and their advantages over analog techniques.
  • Basic concepts of wireless communication and frequency allocation.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research digital modulation techniques, focusing on methods like Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM).
  • Explore the principles of frequency allocation and management in wireless communication systems.
  • Learn about the design and implementation of unique digital codes for wireless device communication.
  • Investigate the impact of interference in wireless networks and strategies for mitigation.
USEFUL FOR

Electronics engineers, wireless communication specialists, and anyone interested in understanding the technical aspects of electromagnetic signal modulation and wireless device operation.

jaydnul
Messages
558
Reaction score
15
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?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
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.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
4K
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
3K
  • · Replies 0 ·
Replies
0
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K