Amplitudestøy

Amplitudestøy, also known as amplitude noise or sometimes signal noise, refers to unwanted random fluctuations in the amplitude of a signal. This type of noise is present in virtually all electronic and communication systems, affecting the fidelity and integrity of transmitted or processed information. It arises from various sources, including thermal noise (Johnson-Nyquist noise) generated by the random motion of charge carriers in resistors, shot noise resulting from the discrete nature of charge carriers, and interference from external electromagnetic sources.

The presence of amplitudestøy can manifest as a distortion or degradation of the original signal. For instance, in audio systems, it might be heard as a hiss or crackle. In digital communication, it can lead to errors in data transmission, as the receiver may misinterpret the intended signal level. The level of amplitudestøy is often quantified by its power spectral density or its root mean square (RMS) value. Techniques to mitigate amplitudestøy include filtering, shielding, and using low-noise components. Signal processing methods like averaging and correlation can also help to reduce the impact of amplitudestøy on the desired signal. Understanding and managing amplitudestøy is crucial for designing and operating reliable electronic systems.