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Question

What is the modulation index in a frequency modulated signal with a modulating frequency of 500 Hz and frequency deviation of 10 kHz?

The correct answer is

20

Frequency Modulation Index Calculation

Understanding the modulation index is crucial in frequency modulation (FM) signals, as it quantifies the extent of frequency variation relative to the modulating frequency. This parameter helps in characterizing the bandwidth of the FM signal and its resistance to noise.

Modulation Index Definition

The modulation index ($\beta$) in frequency modulation is defined as the ratio of the maximum frequency deviation ($\Delta f$) to the maximum modulating frequency ($f_m$). It is a dimensionless quantity that indicates how much the carrier frequency deviates from its resting frequency due to the modulating signal.

Formula for Modulation Index

The modulation index for a frequency modulated signal is given by the formula:

$$\beta = \frac{\Delta f}{f_m}$$

Where:

  • $\beta$ = Modulation Index
  • $\Delta f$ = Frequency Deviation (in Hz)
  • $f_m$ = Modulating Frequency (in Hz)

Given Parameters

From the question, we are provided with the following values for the frequency modulated signal:

  • Modulating frequency ($f_m$) = 500 Hz
  • Frequency deviation ($\Delta f$) = 10 kHz

Unit Conversion for Frequency Deviation

Before proceeding with the calculation, it is essential to ensure that both the frequency deviation and modulating frequency are in the same units. The modulating frequency is given in Hertz (Hz), and the frequency deviation is given in kilohertz (kHz).

To convert kilohertz to hertz, we multiply by 1000:

$$\Delta f = 10 \text{ kHz} \times 1000 \text{ Hz/kHz} = 10,000 \text{ Hz}$$

Calculating the Modulation Index

Now, we can substitute the converted frequency deviation and the given modulating frequency into the modulation index formula:

$$\beta = \frac{\Delta f}{f_m}$$

$$\beta = \frac{10,000 \text{ Hz}}{500 \text{ Hz}}$$

$$\beta = 20$$

Therefore, the modulation index for the given frequency modulated signal is 20.

Summary of Calculation

Parameter Value
Modulating Frequency ($f_m$) 500 Hz
Frequency Deviation ($\Delta f$) 10 kHz (10,000 Hz)
Modulation Index ($\beta$) 20

This calculation demonstrates how the modulation index is determined from the fundamental parameters of a frequency modulated signal, providing insight into its characteristics and behavior in communication systems.

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Important Questions from Frequency Modulation

  1. The range of frequency generated by VHF oscillator is -

  2. If f mis modulating frequency and m fis modulation index, then by the Carson's rule, the bandwidth of an FM signal at the input of a conventional discriminator will be:

  3. The appropriate value of modulation index β for transition between narrow band and wide band FM is considered as:

  4. Which of the following is NOT the advantage of frequency modulation ?

  5. The modulation technique in which frequency of the carrier wave is changed with respect to the modulating wave is called:

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