Unlike AM radio which allows for transmission of only certain frequencies, FM radio offers the ability to transmit any desired frequencies as long as they are within the band's range. With an AM radio, the strength, or frequency, of the sound data is highly varied so as to include the necessary sound data. However, with FM radio, this is not the case. FM signals do have a distinct advantage over AM signals during storm conditions where strong winds may blow the radio waves over large distances. The signal strength is reduced and it may take hours for the listener to receive a transmission.
With FM radio you can listen at any time, and you get the desired quality of sound and frequency modulation due to the lack of limitation imposed by the radio stations on the frequency modulation. In the past, AM radio operators used to acquire their license through a process of hazard perception, wherein they had to prove that they could handle a certain amount of power. Later, attempts were made to introduce a formula recognized by the FCC that would govern the license of these radio operators so that they will be able to use and transmit frequencies beyond their capability. Among the various methods proposed, the most successful one was the introduction of fm modulated signals where the power level was adjusted so as to send the desired signal. Today, it is difficult for a station to acquire the license for transmitting these types of signals as it costs a lot of money to buy such licenses.
2 years, 7 months ago