FMkanaler

FMkanaler are radio channels that broadcast audio signals using frequency modulation (FM). They form a principal method for high-fidelity terrestrial radio broadcasting in many regions, offering strong stereo sound and resilience to electrical noise compared with amplitude-modulated signals.

In FM broadcasting, the audio signal modulates the carrier frequency rather than its amplitude. This results in improved signal quality and a wider dynamic range. Standard FM broadcasts in most regions carry stereo sound, which uses a 19 kHz pilot tone and a 38 kHz subcarrier for the difference signal, while the Radio Data System (RDS) at 57 kHz provides additional information such as station name and program data.

The FM band and channel spacing vary by region. In Europe and many other parts of the world, the low end of the FM band ranges roughly from 87.5 to 108.0 MHz, with channel spacing commonly at 100 kHz. In the United States and some other areas, the band is 88.0 to 108.0 MHz with 200 kHz spacing. Each FMkanal is assigned a specific carrier frequency and typically corresponds to a single radio station, though some stations share a frequency with multiplexed services in adjacent areas.

Radio signals propagate via line of sight and are affected by terrain, antenna height, and transmitter power, giving FMkanaler a finite coverage radius. While FM remains prominent for local and regional broadcasting, many regions are expanding or complementing it with digital radio platforms such as DAB or DAB+. Regulation and licensing bodies allocate frequencies to operators to manage interference and allocate spectrum efficiently.