Effect of noise in communication systems: In a typical communication system, noise is most likely to affect the signal at which point?
Electronics and Communication Engineering
Radio Receivers
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
Answer
Correct Answer: In the channel
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Noise refers to unwanted random disturbances that interfere with the original signal. In communication theory, it is crucial to know where noise predominantly enters the system.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Communication system components: information source → transmitter → channel → receiver → destination.
- Noise is generally modeled as being added in the channel.
Concept / Approach:
The channel (wire, fiber, or wireless medium) is the most vulnerable stage where external interference, thermal agitation, and atmospheric effects introduce noise into the signal path.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Model: Transmitted signal passes through channel.Noise from thermal, atmospheric, or man-made sources is added here.Receiver then processes a noisy version of the signal.Verification / Alternative check:
Shannon's communication model explicitly defines noise as added in the channel.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Transmitter: introduces distortion, not random noise.
- Information source: source errors, not noise.
- Destination: errors are a result, not cause of noise.
Common Pitfalls:
- Confusing distortion (systematic) with random noise.
Final Answer:
In the channel