The problem of power line noise interference with AM radio broadcasting systems has been an issue ever since radio broadcasts began, because it disrupts proper antenna impedance matching between a transmission line and AM wave radio towers. Power line noise can affect everything from radio and television reception to amateur radio, as well as communications […]
broadcast engineers
Why are Antenna’s Made of Aluminum?
When working with AM/FM radio equipment, you may find that a lot of components, such as the antennas, are made of aluminum. It may strike one as odd, but aluminum is used more often—and more effectively—than many “stronger” metals. There are two main reasons why the lightweight metal is used for things such as antennas […]
The Great Modern AM Revitalization Project
Whether you’re aware of it or not, AM radio is a huge part of American culture. AM radio stations, which are less expensive to run than FM radio channels, give a beautiful snapshot of modern American society. FM radio has become so mainstream that only those with good funding can have a voice, but on […]
Is AM Radio Going Extinct?
Since the advent of AM radio at the start of the 20th century, countless new competitors have been born. As early as the end of the Second World War, AM radio had already begun to fall out of style with the development of FM broadcasting. Modern digital technologies have only exacerbated the threat, with the […]
The Digital Multimeter (DMM) – An Essential Tool for Broadcast Engineers
Any electrical or broadcast engineer, or anyone who works on electrical devices for that matter, should know what a digital multimeter, or DMM is. These handy devices are used to measure the three basic parameters of electricity – current (amps), voltage (volts) and resistance (ohms). Here are a few little insights into how accurate readings […]