Understanding RF Signals
An RF signal is an electromagnetic wave that communications systems use to transport information through air from one point to another. RF signals have been in use for many years. They provide the means for carrying music to FM radios and video to televisions. In fact, RF signals are the most common means for carrying data over a wireless network.
RF Signal Attributes
The RF signal propagates between the sending and receiving stations' antennae. As shown in Figure 3-2, the signal that feeds the antenna has an amplitude, frequency, and phase. These attributes vary in time in order to represent information.
Figure 3-2. Amplitude, Frequency, and Phase Are Basic Elements of RF Signal
The amplitude indicates the strength ...
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