FDM

FDM is an acronym with multiple meanings across different industries. Two of the most common references are fused deposition modeling, a 3D printing technology, and frequency division multiplexing, a telecommunications method for sharing a channel among multiple signals. The acronym is also used in business and corporate contexts, including as the name of a technology services company and as a shorthand for financial data management in enterprise IT.

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is an additive manufacturing process where a thermoplastic filament is heated and extruded through a moving nozzle to build objects layer by layer. The part is typically created on a build platform with support structures for overhangs. After printing, supports are removed and parts may require post-processing such as sanding or annealing. Common materials include ABS and PLA; newer variants use PETG, nylon, and polycarbonate. The term FDM was originally a trademark of Stratasys, and "FFF" (fused filament fabrication) is used by the RepRap community as a broader term.

Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM) is a method of transmitting multiple signals over a single physical link by partitioning the available bandwidth into non-overlapping frequency bands. Each signal modulates a separate carrier frequency, and all are combined for transmission and then separated at the receiver. FDM has been used in analog telephone networks, broadcast radio and television, and some data communications systems. It is distinct from time-division or code-division multiplexing.

In business technology, FDM may stand for financial data management, a discipline concerned with collecting, validating, and harmonizing financial information for reporting and analytics. Separately, FDM Group is a UK-based professional services company that provides IT consulting and staff augmentation.