Communication Systems Assignment: Frequency Modulation (FM)
1. Description of Frequency Modulation
Frequency Modulation (FM) is a modulation technique in which the frequency of a high-
frequency carrier signal is varied in accordance with the instantaneous amplitude of the
message signal while the amplitude of the carrier remains constant. FM belongs to the class
of angle modulation techniques where information is transmitted through changes in
frequency rather than amplitude (Haykin, 2001).
In frequency modulation, when the amplitude of the modulating signal increases, the carrier
frequency increases above its center frequency. When the amplitude decreases, the carrier
frequency decreases below the center frequency. The amplitude and transmitted power
remain constant throughout the process.
The instantaneous frequency of an FM signal is given by:
fi = fc + kf m(t)
Where:
fi = instantaneous frequency
fc = carrier frequency
kf = frequency sensitivity
m(t) = message signal
The bandwidth required for FM transmission can be estimated using Carson’s Rule:
BW = 2(Δf + fm)
FM is widely used in radio broadcasting, aviation communication, two-way radio systems,
and television sound transmission because of its high noise immunity and reliability (Lathi
& Ding, 2010).
FM Signal Illustrations
Figure 1: Message Signal
Figure 2: Carrier Signal
Figure 3: Frequency Modulated Signal
Figure 4: FM Spectrum
Figures 1–3 show how the frequency of the carrier changes according to the message signal
while the amplitude remains constant. Figure 4 illustrates the frequency components of an
FM signal around the carrier frequency.
2. Advantages of Frequency Modulation
Frequency modulation offers several advantages over amplitude modulation and other
communication techniques.
1. High Noise Immunity
FM is less affected by noise because most noise affects signal amplitude, while information
in FM is carried in frequency variations. Limiters in FM receivers further remove unwanted
amplitude changes (Haykin, 2001).
2. Better Signal-to-Noise Ratio
FM provides a higher signal-to-noise ratio, especially in wideband FM systems, resulting in
clearer and high-quality audio transmission.
3. Constant Transmitted Power
Since the amplitude of the carrier remains constant, FM allows the use of efficient power
amplifiers, improving power efficiency and reducing distortion (Lathi & Ding, 2010).
4. Reduced Effect of Fading
FM is less affected by signal fading because fading mainly affects amplitude rather than
frequency.
5. High Fidelity
Wideband FM supports a larger bandwidth, allowing accurate reproduction of audio signals
with minimal distortion.
6. Capture Effect
FM receivers can lock onto the stronger signal and suppress weaker interfering signals,
reducing interference.
Because of these advantages, FM is widely used in broadcasting, aviation communication,
mobile radio systems, and microwave communication.
References
Haykin, S. (2001). Communication Systems (4th ed.). John Wiley & Sons.
Lathi, B. P., & Ding, Z. (2010). Modern Digital and Analog Communication Systems (4th ed.).
Oxford University Press.