Interior Features; Audio System; Weak signal noise- Page 311

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Interior Features

Audio System

Multipath noise

Since FM signals can be reflected by 

obstructions, it is possible to receive both 

the direct signal and the reflected signal 

at the same time. This causes a slight 

delay in reception and may be heard as a 

broken sound or a distortion. This problem 

may also be encountered when in close 

proximity to the transmitter.

Reflected wave

Direct

Flutter/Skip noise

Signals from an FM transmitter move in 

straight lines and become weak in valleys 

between tall buildings, mountains, and 

other obstacles. When a vehicle passes 

through such an area, the reception 

conditions may change suddenly, resulting 

in annoying noise.

Weak signal noise

In suburban areas, broadcast signals 

become weak because of distance from the 

transmitter. Reception in such fringe areas 

is characterized by sound breakup.

Strong signal noise

This occurs very close to a transmitter 

tower. The broadcast signals are extremely 

strong, so the result is noise and sound 

breakup at the radio receiver.

Station drift noise

When a vehicle reaches the area of two 

strong stations broadcasting at similar 

frequencies, the original station may be 

temporarily lost and the second station 

picked up. At this time there will be some 

noise from this disturbance.

Station 2 

88.3 MHz

Station 1 

88.1 MHz

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