What is Amplitude Modulation (AM)

Definition:-

Amplitude Modulation, is a system, where the maximum amplitude of the carrier wave varies, according to the instantaneous value (amplitude) of the modulating (message or baseband) signal.

What is Frequency Modulation (FM)

In case of Frequency Modulation (FM) the frequency of the carrier wave varies according to the instantaneous value of the modulating (message) signal.

Comparison of AM and FM (AM vs FM)

Why FM is better than AM

Following reasons make the Frequency Modulation (FM) better than Amplitude Modulation (AM)

1.FM broadcasts operate in upper VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency) ranges, while MF (Medium Frequency) and HF (High Frequency) ranges are used by AM broadcasts. This is a big advantage for FM, since in VHF and UHF frequency ranges there is less noise interference.

AM vs FM Video (Comparison of AM and FM) Video

2.FM receivers are more immune to noise in comparison to AM receivers. since FM receivers may be fitted with amplitude limiters. These amplitude limiters can remove the amplitude variations caused by the noise.

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3.In FM, it is possible to further reduce noise by increasing frequency deviation. This is not possible in case of AM, since in AM, we can not exceed 100℅ modulation without Severe distortions.

4.Standard Frequency allocations provide a guard band between commercial FM stations. This leads to less interference between adjacent channels in FM in comparison to AM.

5.In case of FM, all the transmitted power is useful but in AM, most of the power is present in carrier, that does not contain any information.