More Wireless Basics

This article explains the types of wireless signal. What makes these signals different? What is the difference between a transmitter and a receiver? What do you call a device that both transmits and receives? Make sure you can name two types of antennas and the reason for choosing each type.

What is a wireless signal?


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Wireless signals are important because they can transfer information - audio, video, our voices, data -- without the use of wires, and that makes them very useful.

Wireless signals are electromagnetic waves traveling through the air. These are formed when electric energy travels through a piece of metal - for example, a wire or antenna - and waves are formed around that piece of metal. These waves can travel some distance depending on the strength of that energy.

For more on how electromagnetic signals work, check the #External Resources section at the end of this document.