Radio opened the doors for quick and wireless communication, which was a huge leap from the earlier wired methods of communication.
Key Takeaways
- An FM modulator is a device that connects to an audio source and modulates an FM signal, allowing it to be broadcast on an FM radio frequency.
- An FM transmitter is a device that broadcasts an FM radio signal directly from a source such as a smartphone or MP3 player.
- The main difference between an FM modulator and an FM transmitter is that the former requires an external audio source, while the latter can transmit audio directly.
FM Modulator vs FM transmitter
The difference between the FM modulator and the FM transmitter is that the FM modulator modulates or modifies the FM signal that is being transmitted by the radio so that it can be correctly sent through the FM carrier wave, whereas the FM transmitter is responsible for transmitting or sending the actual wave.
FM Modulator is a device that combines the FM signal wave that is being transmitted from the radio with the FM carrier wave.
FM Transmitter is the component that is responsible for transmitting or sending the actual radio signal. For broadcasting radio waves, generally, the FM carrier wave frequency is in the range of 87.5 to 108.0MHz.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of Comparison | FM Modulator | FM Transmitter |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | FM Modulator modulates the radio wave to be carried by the carrier wave | FM Transmitter generates the radio signal |
| Operation | Modulation is done by selecting the frequency of the radio station where the signals are to be transmitted | Transmission is done by generating waves in the frequency range of the carrier wave |
| Signal Type | Modulation is done on AC waves in the range 88 to 108MHz | The sound waves or digital signal is converted into AC analog waves |
| Factors Affecting | Is affected by the static noise in the waves | Is affected by environmental conditions, antenna height, static noise, etc |
| Uses | Used on most radios, mobile phones, and other transmission devices | Used in conjunction with a receiver to receive the signals |
What is FM Modulator?
FM Modulator is a device that is used to modulate or modify the radio signal so that it can be carried by the carrier wave.
The waves are transmitted through a carrier wave. A carrier wave or carrier signal is a wave that is set at a particular frequency.
This wave carries other waves and radio signals so that they can be transmitted between different radio stations and channels.
To achieve this, the FM Modulator combines the radio wave and the carrier wave with the help of some modulation logic built into the device.
This resulting wave has a frequency that is in the range of the carrier wave frequency, and thus the wave can be encoded onto the carrier wave and transmitted through the carrier wave.
What is FM Transmitter?
In signal transmission devices such as radios, FM Transmitter is the component that is responsible for the actual transmission of the signals.
The signal is initially in the form of electronic data, sound signals, or digital data. This data is converted into an analog AC signal, which is a sinusoidal wave signal.
As radio waves are in the form of sin waves, these waves can then be transmitted. Before transmission, the frequency of the wave has to be modulated so that it can be encoded onto the Carrier wave.
After modulation, the wave is transmitted or broadcasted by the transmitter circuit. The strength of transmission depends upon the power of the transmitter circuit.
The signals are transmitted in the frequency range of 88 to 108MHz, but the range of transmission depends on the capabilities of the circuit.
Environmental conditions, static presence in the carrier wave, and antenna height are some of the factors that affect the range as well as the strength of the signal.
A powerful signal transmitter should be used for successful transmission under such conditions.
Main Differences Between FM Modulator and FM Transmitter
- Static noise in the carrier wave is the factor that affects modulation the most. Transmission is affected by factors such as environmental conditions, static noise, antenna height etc.
- FM modulators are mostly used in personal radio devices and mobile-phone to modulate the waveform. Transmitters are used in signal broadcasting devices in conjunction with a receiver circuit.
- https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/780016/
- https://www.diva-portal.org/smash/record.jsf?pid=diva2:437259
- https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/1403621/
- https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/5940712/
Last Updated : 14 August, 2023
I’ve put so much effort writing this blog post to provide value to you. It’ll be very helpful for me, if you consider sharing it on social media or with your friends/family. SHARING IS ♥️
Emma Smith holds an MA degree in English from Irvine Valley College. She has been a Journalist since 2002, writing articles on the English language, Sports, and Law. Read more about me on her bio page.
I’ve learned a lot from reading this. The comparison table was very helpful
I found the comparison table to be the most useful part of this article
Indeed, Ryan. The comparison table made it easier to understand the differences
The information on FM modulators and FM transmitters was presented in an engaging way. I enjoyed reading this
I share the same sentiment, Lindsay, this was indeed a great read
I didn’t know that there were differences between an FM modulator and an FM transmitter. This article was very interesting and informative
That’s right, Helen, this was an enlightening article indeed
I appreciate the detailed explanation of FM modulators and FM transmitters in this article
Couldn’t agree more, Sabrina. This was a great analysis
Very informative article, it has enhanced my knowledge about FM modulators and transmitters.
I second that, Vicky. Great learning experience
I had no idea about the differences between FM modulators and transmitters. This article has broadened my understanding
I’m glad I read this too, Henry. It’s always great to learn something new
This content has provided a comprehensive understanding of FM modulators and transmitters
Definitely, Joseph. A well-written piece with substantial insights
Well said, Joseph. I’m more informed thanks to this article
The thorough explanation of FM modulators and transmitters was impressive. I’d recommend this to anyone interested in the topic
Couldn’t agree more, I’ve gained a lot from reading this
Absolutely, Jessica. This article covers everything one needs to know about the subject
The information about the FM Modulator and FM transmitter was explained in a very clear and concise manner. Thank you
I agree with you, Hward, this was a great read
Absolutely, the detailed comparison provided helped me understand the topic better
Informative and insightful. This article has been a great source of knowledge on the topic
I’m in agreement, Brussell. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this article