Overmodulert

Overmodulert is a term used in audio engineering and signal processing to describe a signal that has been modulated beyond its intended limits. This typically occurs during the modulation process, where a carrier signal is altered by an information signal. If the information signal is too strong or the carrier signal is too weak, the modulation depth can exceed 100%.

The primary consequence of overmodulation is distortion. In amplitude modulation (AM), overmodulation leads to the envelope of the carrier signal becoming distorted, which translates to the demodulated audio signal sounding unpleasant and containing unwanted harmonics. This distortion can make speech unintelligible and music sound harsh. In frequency modulation (FM), while less prone to the same type of clipping distortion as AM, overmodulation can still cause issues like spurious sidebands and an altered frequency deviation, potentially affecting signal quality and increasing interference.

Overmodulation is generally undesirable and is avoided through careful control of signal levels during the modulation process. Audio engineers use limiters and compressors to prevent signals from exceeding appropriate modulation levels. Monitoring equipment, such as modulation meters, is also used to ensure that the signal remains within acceptable parameters. Identifying and correcting overmodulation is crucial for maintaining high-fidelity audio transmission and reception.