Is there an AM radio?
Yes, AM (Amplitude Modulation) radio is still a widely used form of radio broadcasting today. AM radio signals are transmitted and received using amplitude modulation, a technique that encodes audio information by varying the amplitude of the radio carrier wave. This technology has been around for over a century and continues to play a significant role in the radio landscape.
What is AM Radio?
AM radio is a type of radio transmission that uses amplitude modulation to encode audio signals onto a carrier wave. This means that the amplitude, or strength, of the radio signal is varied to represent the audio information being transmitted. AM radio signals are typically transmitted on frequencies between 535 and 1705 kilohertz (kHz) in the AM radio band.
How Does AM Radio Work?
The basic principle of AM radio is as follows:
- The audio signal, such as a voice or music, is used to modulate the amplitude of a high-frequency carrier wave.
- The modulated carrier wave is then transmitted through the air using an antenna.
- At the receiver, the AM radio detects the changes in the amplitude of the carrier wave and extracts the original audio signal.
- The audio signal is then amplified and played through the radio's speakers.
This process allows AM radio stations to transmit audio content over long distances, as the AM radio signals can travel through various obstacles and atmospheric conditions more effectively than higher-frequency FM (Frequency Modulation) radio signals.
Advantages and Disadvantages of AM Radio
AM radio has several advantages and disadvantages compared to other radio technologies:
Advantages:
- Long-distance transmission: AM radio signals can travel much farther than FM signals, making it suitable for rural and remote areas.
- Lower bandwidth requirements: AM radio signals require less bandwidth than FM, allowing more stations to operate within the same frequency spectrum.
- Better penetration: AM radio signals can better penetrate buildings, mountains, and other obstacles, making them more reliable in certain environments.
Disadvantages:
- Lower audio quality: AM radio typically has a narrower frequency range and lower fidelity compared to FM radio, resulting in a less crisp and clear audio experience.
- Susceptibility to interference: AM radio signals are more prone to interference from electrical devices, atmospheric conditions, and other radio signals, which can degrade the audio quality.
- Limited bandwidth: The AM radio band is relatively narrow, limiting the number of stations that can operate within it.
Despite these limitations, AM radio continues to play an important role in the broadcasting landscape, particularly in areas where its long-distance transmission and penetration capabilities are valuable.
Can you listen to AM stations on digital radio?
Most DAB+ digital radios can also receive analogue FM, and some AM. However, where DAB+ coverage is available, you'll always be able to hear your favourite AM and FM stations simulcast on DAB+ in digital quality sound.
Does anyone listen to AM radio anymore?
According to a June Nielsen report, more than 82 million Americans listen to AM radio every month.
Is AM radio being discontinued?
Could AM radio be phased out altogether in the US? That's not on the table, and AM stations, hosts and radio broadcasters are working together to keep this from becoming an option.
Is there still AM radio stations?
Yes. Thousands of AM broadcast stations are still on the air in the USA.
Are AM radios being phased out?
BMW, Mazda and Volkswagen are among the automakers that have decided to stop putting AM radios in new electrical vehicles, citing electric engines interfering with the sound of AM stations.
Is AM radio being phased out?
Could AM radio be phased out altogether in the US? That's not on the table, and AM stations, hosts and radio broadcasters are working together to keep this from becoming an option.
Can I listen to AM radio on my phone?
With Radiogram you can listen to AM/FM and internet radio stations from all over the world - for free and without ads! Listen to your favorite radio stations! Radiogram is free and easy to use.
Is it legal to broadcast AM radio?
Please be aware that unlicensed operation of radio broadcast stations is prohibited, even at low powers such as 1 watt or less. The only unlicensed operation that is permitted on the AM and FM broadcast bands is covered under Part 15 of the FCC's rules, and is limited to a coverage radius of approximately 200 feet.
Why can't I get AM on my radio?
For AM reception, you may need to re-position the radio to obtain better reception. It might be necessary to locate the radio near a window. Most Hi-fi tuners use external antennas for AM, FM or DAB reception. These normally connect to the rear of the unit.
Do AM radios still exist?
From small and rural markets to major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston and Atlanta, AM stations are among the most popular for news, sports, entertainment and weather. Over 80 million people in the U.S. listen to AM radio each month, according to Nielsen.
