FM Full Form

FM full form is Frequency modulation. It is a method used for broadcasting on radio.FM is a method or technique used for encoding information about an analog or digital signal by changing the frequency of carrier waves in response to the frequency of the modulating signal. A modulated signal is similar to a message that needs to be changed and transmitted as an electrical signal.

What is the Full Form of FM?

As mentioned above the full form of FM is Frequency Modulation. It changes the strength of transmitted signals regularly which is followed by data given. When you provide a data signal, the frequency changes according to the data. Carrier frequencies can also carry music or speech when switching between low and high frequencies. 

FM uses a higher bandwidth than AM and provides better data transmission with less noise. As FM signals have more bandwidth, they are always regulated by the relevant laws and managed by authorities in the country to ensure that they do not interfere with other operating bandwidths. The maximum carrier difference allowed for stereo broadcasting is ±75 kHz (kilohertz) from the standard frequency. The bandwidth used by FM is calculated according to the Carson bandwidth rules.

History of FM

Frequency modulation (FM full form) radio technology was invented by Edwin Howard Armstrong in the early 1930s. The invention of Armstrong opened chances for advancement in the field of radio communication. The radio wave is called a carrier, but the phase and amplitude level remains the same, with a wide bandwidth and improved sound quality. The invention resulted in more clear transmission of sound or music on the radio. The frequency range of FM lies from 88 to 108 MHz which creates less disturbance in sound commonly termed as noise.

Use of FM

FM is mostly used in radio broadcasting. FM is useful in radio broadcasting because of its higher signal-to-noise ratio. This means it has minimal interference from radio frequencies. This is the main reason why many radio stations use FM to broadcast music and their programs. 

Different Types of FM

FM is mainly divided into 4 types:

1. Wide Band 

Wideband FM is used for FM radio where music and speech can be transmitted up to a space frequency of 75 kHz and audio can be transmitted up to a bandwidth of 20 kHz and a subcarrier of 92 kHz.

2. Narrow Band

Narrowband FM is an FM signal that uses only a small portion of a normal FM channel. It is mostly used in two-way wireless communication.

3. Digital FM

Digital radio or digital FM has better visibility and better sound compared to AM and FM. It can also provide on-screen information such as song and artist information, weather and news, pause and rewind options.

4. Analog  FM

Analog radios use frequency-modulated (FM) waves. These waves produce clear speech but cannot filter out other noises around the sender. They also can't send signals for miles.

Different Applications of FM

Below mentioned are the different applications of FM

1. Radio Broadcasting

FM radio has been the keystone of audio entertainment, which helps in providing listeners with clear, honest sound. Noise immunity of the FM signal ensures that the sound is consistent even in harsh or unclear environments.

2. Telecommunication 

FM is used in multiple communication systems that include point-to-point communication and microwave systems. Its resistance to noise interference makes it the first and best choice which offers reliable communication management.

3. Radar System

The frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar systems uses the FM method to measure distance and speed. These systems are used in a variety of applications, including aviation, vehicle safety, and weather monitoring.

4. Satellite Communication

FM method is also used in satellite communications for providing reliable long-range of data transmission. Noise shielding of the FM signal helps in maintaining the integrity of the data.

Advantages of FM

FMs are used widely because they have many advantages, some of the advantages of FM are listed below. 

1. Noise Immunity 

FM systems are considered less sensitive to amplitude-based noise which makes them ideal for environments with interference and signal degradation.

2. Captures Effect

When multiple signals are received at the same time, the receiver tends to tune in to the strongest signal. This "catch effect" ensures that the desired signal is received even with weak interference problems.

3. Wide Bandwidth of Frequency

FM signals have a wider range than AM signals, allowing them to carry more information. This device is particularly useful for transmitting voice and high-speed data signals.

4. Better Quality Audio 

FM radio is known for its efficient transmission, making it the best choice for music streaming and voice communication.

5. Diversity of Frequency

The frequency scale of FM can be adjusted which helps in providing different frequencies, allowing for varied frequencies on multiple channels within the same band of frequency. 

Disadvantages of FM

Mentioned below are the disadvantages of Frequency modulation (FM full form)

1. Bandwidth Usage:The wide bandwidth of FM signals sometimes leads to poor spectrum utilization compared to modern modulation systems which use digital transmission.
2. Complexity: FM systems can be complex to design and implement, especially when dealing with multiplexing and demodulation processes.
3. Range is Limited : FM signals have a limited range due to their reliance on line-of-sight propagation and susceptibility to terrain and atmospheric conditions.

Difference Between FM & AM

Written By: Deepit Mathur