amplitude modulation (AM) is a modulation technique used in analog communications to transmit information through variations in the amplitude of a carrier wave. While AM has been widely used for several decades, its role and prominence in future communication systems are likely to diminish with the advancement of digital modulation techniques.
In recent years, digital modulation schemes such as phase shift keying (PSK), frequency shift keying (FSK), and quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) have gained significant popularity due to their superior performance and efficiency compared to AM. Digital modulation techniques allow for higher data rates, improved noise immunity, and better spectral efficiency, making them well-suited for modern communication systems.
However, it's worth noting that AM still finds some niche applications in certain areas. For example, AM is still used in some broadcasting systems, particularly in AM radio transmissions. AM radio has a wide coverage area and can be received using simple and inexpensive receivers, which makes it a cost-effective option for certain scenarios. Additionally, AM can still be encountered in specific communication systems, such as aviation and marine radio communications, where it serves a specific purpose.
Overall, while AM will likely continue to exist in some specialized applications, the future of mainstream communication systems lies predominantly in digital modulation techniques that offer higher performance, increased data rates, and improved spectral efficiency.