Types of Radio

Analog Radio

Analog radio consists of two main types: AM (amplitude modulation) and FM (frequency modulation). Analog radio station frequently feeds only one transmitter and referred to as an AM station or an FM station in the U.S. But it is quite possible for a station to feed both transmitters in a similar area, or to feed more than one transmitter covering different areas. In either case, AM or FM refers only to a particular transmitter and not to the entire station. The latter arrangement is becoming widespread throughout the U.S.

Satellite Radio

One of the newest forms of broadcasting, satellite radio is a commercial, subscription-based service that uses a network of satellites to transmit signals over wide areas. Unlike traditional AM and FM broadcasts, satellite radio is digitally encoded, requiring a special receiver. Even with the receiver, you cannot tune in unless you have a paid subscription; a computer chip in the receiver locks out any channels not paid for. Advantages of satellite radio include good sound quality, nationwide coverage and access to material that sidesteps the Federal Communications Commission's ban on profanity.

Walkie-Talkie

A walkie-talkie is a portable, handheld device that sends and receives radio signals, usually within a range of about a mile. Walkie-talkies are used by two or more people to communicate in situations where cell phone service is poor or unavailable, such as in remote locations or in buildings. Because walkie-talkies have low power and short range, you don't need a special license to operate them; they interfere little with other radio signals.

Amateur radio (ham radio)

Amateur radio, also known as ham radio, is a hobby enjoyed by several hundred thousand people in the United States and by over a million people worldwide. Amateur radio operators call themselves "radio hams" or simply "hams."

To become a radio ham, you must pass an examination. Wireless amateur communication is done on numerous bands (relatively narrow frequency segments) extending from 1.8 MHz (a wavelength of about 160 meters) upwards through several hundred gigahertz (wavelengths in the millimeter range). There are several license classes. The more privileges a class of license conveys, the more difficult is the examination that one must pass to obtain it.

 Happy Learning!

Anamika Gupta

IAAN