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A range of our wireless intercoms operate using spread spectrum technology as their advanced communication method. This technology achieves secure and reliable communication between intercom units through signal transmission across multiple frequencies.

What is Spread Spectrum?

digital spread spectrumThe spread spectrum approach operates by "multiplexing" multiple signals which it distributes over diverse frequencies within the wireless intercom's available frequency range. The signal distribution method involves breaking down the transmission power into smaller units and spreading them across an expanded frequency range. Consider this idea as dividing the available frequency spectrum into small segments of time.

Hollywood actress Hedy Lamarr and musician George Antheil first developed the concept by filing a patent for a spread spectrum communications system in 1942. The revolutionary idea of wireless communication by Lamarr and Antheil remained theoretical until later years when it finally became practical and transformed the field.

How Does Spread Spectrum Work?

Spread spectrum systems transmit signals at low power levels over a broad frequency spectrum. Users can send multiple transmissions at the same time because they won't interfere with each other. A unique code on each transmission piece enables the receiver to reconstruct the original message. As the signal spreads across a wider frequency range it creates more room for other coded transmissions to share the same frequency band without interference.

This approach works because spreading the signal over a wide enough range reduces its power density to such an extent that it becomes undetectable by other systems that share the same frequency bands. Unauthorized devices find it extremely hard to intercept or detect communications through this method.

What makes Spread Spectrum Crucial for Wireless Intercom Systems?

Wireless communication has to compete with other devices for clear frequencies while also facing interference from background noise sources including hair dryers, microwave ovens, and cosmic radiation. Persistent background noise forms a "noise floor" that communication systems need to work against. Traditional systems manage to distinguish their signal from noise by transmitting signals at high power levels.

The operation of spread spectrum systems contrasts with that of traditional systems. Spread spectrum systems successfully transmit and receive weak signals that stay below the noise-floor threshold to achieve more dependable communication.

Spread spectrum technology delivers multiple substantial advantages for wireless intercom systems.

  • Extended Battery Life: Lower transmission power in spread spectrum technology helps preserve battery life.
  • Reduced Interference: Spread spectrum technology reduces interference and noise for other wireless technologies by distributing the signal across many frequencies.
  • Enhanced Security: Eavesdropping becomes significantly more challenging for unauthorized devices because spread spectrum technology distributes conversations in small fragments across a broad frequency range.

Spread spectrum technology stands out as the best option for modern communication systems due to its ability to deliver increased efficiency as well as improved clarity and security for wireless intercom systems.
A commercial digital wireless system example using spread spectrum technology is available in the Related Products section below.

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