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Wireless Communication Terminology Explained

wireless rf terminology communication modulation

This page explains various terms related to the wireless or telecommunications field. It covers concepts such as RF transceivers, RF power amplifiers, satellite modems, low noise amplifiers (LNAs), modulators, VSATs, satellites, the definition of “wireless,” MIMO, FEC, CRC, filters, BORSCHT, and more.

Wireless TermsBasic DescriptionRF Wireless World Reference
RF TransceiverA device comprising both an RF transmitter and an RF receiver. The transmitter sends radio frequency signals into the air via an antenna. The receiver picks up radio frequency signals from the space based on a specific RF tuning value.
RF Power AmplifierA device used to amplify the RF signal provided at its input, delivering an amplified output. Its gain is typically set based on RF link calculations to compensate for signal loss across the transmission path.
Satellite ModemEquipment used to modulate and demodulate signals for satellite communications.
Low Noise Amplifier (LNA)An amplifier designed to amplify very weak signals received from space. It amplifies the desired signal significantly while minimizing the amplification of noise.
ModulatorA device used to modulate a baseband information signal (voice or data) and provide a modulated output. There are different types of modulation, including amplitude, frequency, and phase modulation.
VSATVery Small Aperture Terminal, used to interface with satellites orbiting the Earth. It provides connectivity to remote areas where laying cable is impractical. Antenna diameters vary depending on the operating frequency band. VSATs typically provide service for a small number of voice and data channels.
SatelliteUsed to provide connectivity to remote, inaccessible areas. Satellites perform frequency conversion and amplification using satellite transponders.
WirelessA medium that doesn’t rely on physical wires. Electromagnetic waves are used as the medium to carry low-frequency information signals (voice or data).
FECForward Error Correction. Used to correct errors in received packets. FEC-based systems generally offer a better Bit Error Rate (BER) at the same Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) compared to non-FEC systems. Convolutional encoding and turbo coding are common FEC techniques.
MIMOMultiple Input Multiple Output, a technique used to transmit and receive electromagnetic waves simultaneously using multiple antennas. It’s primarily used to increase coverage and/or data rate. Transmitting different data symbols simultaneously increases the data rate. Simultaneously transmitting a symbol and a copy of that symbol enhances coverage.
CRCCyclic Redundancy Check, a technique for error detection. Using CRC, a receiver can determine whether a received packet or frame is valid (i.e., not corrupted).
FilterA device that allows certain frequencies to pass through while blocking others. Basic filters are made of lumped elements such as inductors and capacitors. Different filter types include low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and band-stop filters.
BORSCHTAn acronym describing the seven functions provided by a Subscriber Line Interface Circuit. These functions are Battery feed, Overvoltage protection, Ringing, Supervision, Coding, Hybrid, and Testing.