The Beginnings of FM Radio Broadcasting (2018)
Edwin Howard Armstrong, a pioneer of wideband FM radio, developed technology offering superior audio quality. Despite early challenges, FM broadcasting grew post-1947, significantly influencing radio technology evolution.
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Edwin Howard Armstrong, an influential inventor in radio technology, is credited with the development of wideband frequency modulation (FM) and held 42 patents. His innovations included the regenerative circuit and the superheterodyne receiver, earning him numerous accolades, including induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame. Armstrong's FM technology was demonstrated in 1939 with his station W2XMN in New Jersey, showcasing the advantages of FM over traditional amplitude modulation (AM), such as improved audio fidelity and reduced interference. Despite its benefits, FM faced challenges in gaining acceptance due to the existing AM infrastructure. Early FM stations, like those established by John Shepard III in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, struggled to attract audiences, leading to some closures. The transition to the FM band (88-108 MHz) occurred post-1947, with many stations adopting the new technology. Armstrong's work laid the foundation for modern FM broadcasting, which ultimately became a dominant form of radio transmission, offering clearer sound and greater resistance to static compared to AM.
- Edwin Howard Armstrong was a pioneer of wideband FM radio and held 42 patents.
- FM technology provided superior audio quality and reduced interference compared to AM.
- Early FM stations faced difficulties in attracting listeners, leading to some closures.
- The FM band was established post-1947, allowing for the growth of FM broadcasting.
- Armstrong's innovations significantly influenced the evolution of radio technology.
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- Several commenters draw parallels between Armstrong's contributions and those of other notable inventors, emphasizing his significance in radio history.
- There is a discussion about the evolution of technology, with some expressing nostalgia for traditional radio while others focus on modern streaming methods.
- Some users share additional resources, such as documentaries, to further explore the topic of FM radio's resurgence.
- Comments also highlight interesting historical anecdotes related to early radio technology and its development.
- A few users mention their personal experiences with technology, such as using Siri to read the article, showcasing the ongoing relevance of radio technology.
11 comments> To the shock of RCA and other television proponents, the commission reassigned TV Channel 1 – 42 to 50 MHz - creating 40 exclusive channels for FM radio.
'Light beam link' sounds super innovative for ~1942.
This feels like building tension, given where FM eventually lands.
Not only did it work, but it was accurate and didn’t sound too, too robotic. Will definitely try again.
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