medium frequency; intermediate frequency
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesnoun
medium frequency (MF); frequency in the range of 300–3000 kHz
In radio engineering, this band is used for AM broadcasting, maritime communication, and aeronautical radio. It lies between low frequency (LF) and high frequency (HF).
Medium frequency signals have a moderate transmission range.
This ship uses a medium frequency radio to communicate with the harbor.
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The standard medium frequency broadcast band is 526.5–1606.5 kHz.
noun
intermediate frequency (IF); the fixed frequency to which a radio signal is converted in a superheterodyne receiver for amplification and filtering
In superheterodyne receivers, the incoming radio frequency (RF) signal is mixed with a local oscillator to produce a lower, fixed intermediate frequency (commonly 455 kHz for AM or 10.7 MHz for FM), which is easier to amplify with high gain and selectivity.
Superheterodyne radios generate an intermediate frequency signal through a mixer.
The intermediate frequency amplifier is a key component for receiver sensitivity.
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The intermediate frequency for AM radios is usually 455 kHz.