TPS 7.2.1.

Applied
Amplitude
Modulation
by
Dipl. Ing. Klaus Breidenbach

Leybold Didactic, Hürth 1997

 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation Contents

Note on EMC
European stipulations pertaining to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) oblige the
manufacturer of electronic training and educational equipment to draw the operator's
attention to the following possible sources of interference. The types of interference
listed below could arise but by no means have to. As the case arises it may prove neces-
sary to implement one of the measures recommended for the appropriate case.

Note regarding the interference immunity of the equipment and

experiment set-ups
The sensitive electronics used in the equipment can be interfered with by strong elec-
tromagnetic fields arising from large-scale experiment arrangements. This can occur in
such a manner that the equipment operates insufficiently, in particular field effects can
cause digital displays to fail.
Precautionary and corrective measures:
Make sure that no RF generating equipment (e.g. cellular phones) which does not be-
long to the experiment set-up is operating in the classroom or in its proximity and that
connecting leads which can act as potential antennas are kept as short as possible.

Note regarding protection against electrostatic discharge (ESD)

The sensitive electronic components in the equipment can be impaired or even dama-
ged by the discharge of static electricity.
Precautionary measures:
Select work areas where electrostatic energy cannot be built up by the user and/or
equipment (eliminate carpeting and similar items, ensure equipotential bonding).

Note regarding protection from line-bound, high-frequency voltage

bursts
Switching operations involving large loads can occassionally bring about line-bound
high-frequency voltage bursts which can lead to the temporary impairment of sensitive
electronic components which could cause equipment operating failure (e.g. data losses
or to changes in the mode of operation).
Corrective measures:
In order to avoid this malfunction, the mains line can be specially filtered. Furthermore,
making occasional data back-ups is recommended. Any interference which might arise
can be eliminated simply by switching the device off and back on again.

3
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation Contents

Note: The oscillographs in the experiment results were recorded with a HP 54600 A
oscilloscope (100 MHz) and further processed with the bench link
HP 34810 A software.
The oscilloscope recommended in the equipment set is a low-cost version, with
limited operation and display comfort (30 MHz display), but in principle deli-
vers the same results.
The experiment results given here are just examples. Therefore, the curves and
results specified in the solutions section should only be taken as guidelines.
The calculation and representation of the spectra was carried out with EXCEL
5.0.

4
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation Contents

Table of Contents
Equipment Overview ............................................................................................................ 6
Symbols and abbreviations ................................................................................................... 7
Bibliography.......................................................................................................................... 7

1 Preface .................................................................................................................................. 9

2 Equipment descriptions ...................................................................................................... 9

726 961 Function generator 200 kHz ................................................................................... 9
736 201 CF transmitter 20 kHz ............................................................................................
736 211 CF transmitter 16 kHz ............................................................................................ 10
736 221 CF receiver 20 kHz .................................................................................................
736 231 CF receiver 16 kHz ................................................................................................. 11

3 Required equipment and accessories: ............................................................................... 12

4 Quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) ..................................................................... 13

4.1 Design of a QAM system...................................................................................................... 14
Display of modulating signals and the multiplex signal ...................................................... 14
Demodulation of QAM signals ............................................................................................. 15

5 The independent sideband method (ISB) ......................................................................... 16

5.1 Recording amplitude frequency responses ........................................................................... 16
Experiment procedure ........................................................................................................... 17
Amplitude-frequency responses of the channel filter ........................................................... 18
5.2 Design of an AM system for independent sidebands ........................................................... 20
Representation of modulating signals and the multiplex signal........................................... 20
Demodulation of ISB signals ................................................................................................ 20

6 Signal transmission using frequency-division multiplexing ........................................... 22

6.1 Multiple exploitation of transmission channels.................................................................... 22
6.2 Design of a 2 channel frequency-division multiplex system ............................................... 24
Representation of the modulating signals and the multiplex signal ..................................... 24
Carrier recovery and demodulation in carrier frequency systems........................................ 26
Determining channel crosstalk ............................................................................................. 26

Experiment results .............................................................................................................. 27

Solutions ............................................................................................................................... 27

Keywords ............................................................................................................................. 32

5
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation Contents

Equipment Overview

6.2 Design of a 2 channel frequency-division multiplex system

5.2 Design of an AM system for independent sidebands
5.1 Recording amplitude frequency responses
Experiments
TPS 7.2.1.4

4.1 Design of a QAM system

Equipment
CF transmitter 20 kHz 736 201 1 1 1 1
CF receiver 20 kHz 736 221 1 1 1 1
CF transmitter 16 kHz 736 211 1 _ 1 1
CF receiver 16 kHz 736 231 1 _ 1 1
Function generator 200 kHz 726 961 2 1 2 2
DC power supply ±15 V, 3 A 726 86 1 1 1 1
Digital storage oscilloscope 305 575 292 1 1 1 1
Probe 100 MHz, 1:1/10:1 575 231 2 2 2 2
Analog multimeter C. A 406 531 16 _ 1 _ _
Sets of 10 bridging plugs, black 501 511 3 1 3 4
Cable pairs, black 100 cm 501 461 _ 2 3 4

6
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation Contents

Symbols and abbreviations

A : Amplitude
AC : Carrier amplitude
AM : Amplitude of the modulating signal
AD : Amplitude of the demodulated signal
A(f) : Transmission factor
AM : Amplitude modulation
AR : Square-wave amplitude
DSB : Double sideband AM
BP : Bandpass
b : Bandwidth
d : Channel crosstalk
f : Frequency
fM : Frequency of the modulating signal
FMUX : Frequency-division multiplex
ISB : Independent sidebands
QAM : Quadrature amplitude modulation
s(t) : Signal function in the time domain, general
sD(t) : Demodulated signal
sM(t) : Message signal, modulating signal
sC(t) : Carrier signal
sAM(t) : Time characteristic of the AM
T : Period duration
LP : Lowpass filter
LSL : Lower sideline
USL : Upper sideline
WM : Angle modulation

Bibliography

E. Stadler Modulationsverfahren
Vogel Buchverlag, Würzburg
3rd edition 1983
Herter, Röcker, Lörcher Nachrichtentechnik, Übertragung, Vermittlung, Verarbeitung
Hanser, München, Wien
3rd edition 1984
G. Kennedy Electronic Communication Systems,
Mc Graw Hill Book Company, Singapore,
3rd edition 1985
D.G. Fink D. Christiansen Electronic Engineer’s Handbook
McGraw Hill Book Company
2nd edition 1982
D. Roddy, J. Coolen Electronic Communications
Prentice Hall International, Reston Verginia,
third edition 1984
Hewlett Packard Measurement, Computation, Systems, catalog 1986,
Palo Alto California

7
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation Contents

8
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 1/2

1 Preface

The experiments covering the fundamentals of

amplitude modulation are dealt with in the appro-
priate book, cat. no. 564 052, provided with the
equipment set TPS 7.2.1.3 of the same name. The
experiments described here serve solely as a sup-
plement for more advanced students. For that rea-
son the author dispenses with basic information in kHz

these experiment descriptions. Here, it is assumed DC

V pp
=

that the modulating signals sM1(t) and sM2 (t) stem

from function generators and that these are con-
MODE
nected even though they have been omitted from FUNCTION

the experiment set-up configuration for the sake of

clarity. It is further assumed that the students have ATT
OUT

the skill needed to operate the oscilloscope. No dB

setting data has been provided for the oscilloscope. 20

40
Additional experiments are also possible using the
spectrum analyzer, cat. no. 726 94, e.g. for inde-
pendent sidebands and frequency-division multi-
plex technology.
TTL

2 Equipment descriptions
726 961 Function generator 200 kHz
1. Safety instructions: 726 961
FUNKTIONSGENERATOR 200 kHz
FUNCTION GENERATOR 200 kHz

Read the instruction sheet provided with the de-

vice!
The function generator is illustrated in Fig. 2-1. Fig. 2-1: The function generator and the multifunction
Where: display
1 Mains switch
2 FUNCTION: selection of the output signal pressing the FUNCTION button you shuttle cycli-
3 MODE: selection of the signal parameter ad- cally through the sequence of output signals avail-
justable using the control knob able, sinussoidal, triangular, square-wave, DC.
4 Control knob for the selected signal parame- With the MODE pushbutton the following signal
ters parameters are selected:
5 TTL output – Frequency
6 Output (50 Ω) – Amplitude (peak-to-peak value)
7 Toggle switch for output attenuator – DC offset
8 Multifunction display in LCD technology – Duty cycle (only for square-wave)
9 Power bus lines and ground You can shuttle cyclically through the program
Multifunction display in LCD technology with: menus by pressing the MODE pushbutton repeat-
– Function symbols and signs edly. After the desired signal parameter has been
– Numerical display with decimal points set, its magnitude can be varied by turning the
– Signal parameter control knob. The maximum output voltage of the
device lies at approx. ±12 V.
Putting the system into operation
Connect the mains plug into the socket. Actuate Storing the last setting
mains switch 1. When the device is on the mains After switch off all of the settings are retained.
switch lights up. The desired output signal is set by They are at your disposal unchanged after you
actuating the FUNCTION button. By repeatedly switch the unit back on.

9
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 2

Calling up the base setting

If you simultaneously press either the MODE or
FUNCTION buttons with the device switched on,
the function generator supplies a sinusoidal signal
with 1 kHz and 10 VPP, DC = 0 V. The base set-
ting for the duty cycle (for square-wave signal) is
50%.

736 201 CF transmitter 20 kHz

736 211 CF transmitter 16 kHz
The training panels contain the following compo-
nents:
1. Input filter
The input filter sets the upper critical frequency
limit of the modulating signal to fc= 3.4 kHz. Gain
in the passband: +1.
2. Modulator M1 (M2)
Product modulator with 2 freely-accessible inputs:
– Input for the modulating signal (AF-input)
– Input for the carrier oscillation (RF-input)

In addition the carrier in the output signal of the

modulator can be enabled or disabled using a tog-
gle switch.(CARRIER, ON-OFF)
3. Channel filter CH1 (CH2) Fig. 2-2: The CF transmitter 16 kHz*

The channel filter is needed for the generation of

the SSB-AM. It suppresses the upper (lower) side- Subassembly for “carrier generation”
band. The passband range is approx. 10 kHz... (CARRIER)
16 kHz (20 kHz...30 kHz).
Gain in the passband: +1. Frequency division f 0/10 (f0/8) 5 is used to gen-
Both filters (1 and 3) are equipped with freely-ac- erate the carrier frequency of 16 kHz (20 kHz) out
cessible inputs and outputs, which permits the re- of the pilot tone. The unipolar TTL signal is con-
cording of amplitude frequency responses. verted into a bipolar square-wave signal with 4 VPP
in the TTL/square-wave converter 6. Conversion
4. Output summer into a bipolar sine oscillation also with 4 VPP is
The output summer (4) has two inputs with the gain performed in the square-wave/sine converter 7.
+1. The component is used to linearly superimpose The adjustable phase-shifter 8 φ = 00 ...1500 in-
signal components of the AM signal. At the output troduces a defined phase-shift between the carrier
of the summing unit you have at your disposal the on the modulator side (M2) and the auxiliary car-
complete AM signal, i.e. including any existing rier on the demodulator side. The phase-shifter
pilot tone or, in the case of frequency-division permits the features of coherent demodulation to be
multiplexing operation, the multiplex signal for examined. Furthermore, it is able to generate quad-
transmission via the transmission channel. rature modulation together with a second carrier
frequency transmitter.

* The specifications in brackets refer to the CF transmitter 20 kHz which is otherwise identical in structure

10
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 2

Subassembly “pilot tone generation” (PILOT

TONE)
The crystal oscillator 9 generates the primary
master clock pulse, a symmetrical square-wave,
TTL signal with a frequency of 160 kHz. The con-
verter bl and the attenuator bm connected in se-
ries form an attenuated unipolar square-wave sig-
nal of approx. 200 mVpp out of the TTL signal,
which is transmitted to the CF receiver to recover
the carrier signal.

736 221 CF receiver 20 kHz

736 231 CF receiver 16 kHz
The training panel is used for the demodulation of
amplitude-modulated signals. The device contains
the following components:
1. Channel filter CH1 (CH2). Bandpass filter for
the filtering out of the desired SSB signals. The
passband is approx. 10...16 kHz (20 kHz...
30 kHz). Gain in the passband: +1.
2. Synchronous demodulator D1 (D2)
A multiplier IC takes over the function of the
synchronous demodulator. The AM signal
(DSB or SSB) and an auxiliary carrier are sup-
plied to the demodulator. In addition to the
wanted AF signal also higher frequency signal Fig. 2-4 : The CF receiver 16 kHz*
components appear in its output signal.
3. Lowpass filter
Synchronous demodulation requires lowpass
and an amplitude limiter 5. The PLL circuit con-
filtering for the suppression of the higher fre-
sists of the phase comparator 6, the loop filter
quency signal components. The filter 3 used
here has an upper critical limit f c = 3.4 kHz and
7and the VCO 8. In standard operation the out-
put of the loop filter is connected directly to the
a gain of +1.
input of the VCO using a bridging plug. However,
Subassembly “carrier recovery” the VCO can also be tuned using an external DC
Carrier recovery is performed using a PLL circuit voltage 0...+5 V. After locking into the pilot tone
with subsequent frequency division. The synchro- a recovered auxiliary oscillation f 0= 160 kHz is
nization of the PLL circuit is performed by a pilot available at the output of the PLL. This signal is
tone of 160 kHz sent by the CF transmitter, which then divided down to the required carrier frequen-
is processed in the receiver by a bandpass filter 4 cy fC = 16 kHz (20 kHz) in a frequency divider 9.

* The specifications in brackets refer to the CF transmitter 20 kHz which is otherwise identical in structure

11
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 3

3 Required equipment and accessories:

1 CF transmitter 20 kHz 736 201 Training objectives

1 CF receiver 20 kHz 736 221
– Investigation of special forms of AM like
1 CF transmitter 16 kHz 736 211
QAM, ISB and frequency-division multiplex-
1 CF receiver 16 kHz 736 231
ing (FMUX)
Additionally required: – Carrier recovery using the PLL circuit.
2 Function generators 200 kHz 726 961 – Determination of channel crosstalk.
1 DC power supply ±15 V, 3 A 726 86 – Recording amplitude frequency responses.
1 Digital storage oscilloscope 305 575 292 – Bode diagrams.
2 Probes 100 MHz, 1:1/10:1 575 231
1 Analog multimeter C. A 406 531 16
2 Sets of 10 bridging plugs, black 501 511
2 Cable pairs, black 100 cm 501 461

12
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 4

4 Quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM)

In Fig. 4-1 the message signals sM1(t) and sM2(t) M1

with the frequencies fM1 and fM2 are supplied to the s M1
two modulators M1 and M2. Both modulators are
controlled by the same carrier, one in the cosine
and the other in the sine position (quadrature). The
sC
modulators operate with carrier suppression. The
modulated signals from M1 and M2 are then sup- sQAM
plied to the summing network. The carrier signal
(either in sine or cosine position) can also be in-
serted there. sM2
The modulation products at the modulator outputs
of M1 and M2 are reproduced in (4-1) and (4-2) M2
without taking the amplitudes into consideration:
Fig. 4-1: Generation of a QAM
1. Modulator M1 (In-phase components = I)

cos (2π fM1 t )cos (2π fC t )

frequency) signal is produced in QAM, which is
1 modulated both in terms of amplitude as well as in
= cos 2π ( fC − fM1 )t  (4-1) phase. The tip of the superposition vector sQAM(t)
2
describes an ellipitical curve. Based on what we
1 know of QAM, we can conclude that a (normally
+ cos 2π ( fC + fM1 )t  undesired) angle modulation arises in all AM meth-
2
ods in which linear distortions lead to a sideband
being unsymmetrically attenuated (see Fig. 4-3).
2. Modulator M2 (quadrature components = Q)

cos (2π fM2 t )cos (2π fC + 90°)

1
= cos 2π ( fC − fM2 )t + 90° (4-2)
2
I
1
+ cos 2π ( fC + fM2 )t + 90°
2
Q

Fig. 4-2 shows how QAM arises in a vector dia-

gram. The complex vectors of the sidebands of
both modulations are permanently phase-shifted sC sQAM
with respect to each other by 90° due to the quad-
rature of the corresponding carrier. One complex
vector coincides with the carrier, it is called the I-
vector or in-phase component. Another complex
vector always runs perpendicular to the carrier
vector. It is called the Q-vector or the quadrature
component. However, due to the fact that the
lengths of the complex vectors Q and I vary in time,
the superposition vector sQAM(t) changes both its
length as well as its direction! Due to this com-
bined length and directional change an RF (radio Fig. 4-2: Vector diagram showing how QAM is generated

13
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 4

4.1 Design of a QAM system

Set up the experiment as specified in the principle
I(t)
circuit diagram in Fig. 4.1-1.
In Fig. 4.1-1 the QAM modulator is comprised of
Q(t) the two carrier frequency transmitters 16 kHz and
20 kHz. The Q component is produced by means
of modulation using a carrier phase-shifted by 90°.
The I-component is generated by modulation with
a 0° carrier.
Display of modulating signals and the multiplex
signal
sQAM sC
Set the required phase-shift between the Q- and I-
components. Display these components at the in-
put and output of the phase-shifter. When the chan-
ϕ(t)
nel attenuators (Y1, Y2) of the oscilloscope have
the same settings, an elliptical curve is produced
on the screen, which degenerates into a circle for a
90° phase shift. (Provided that the screen has a
Fig. 4-3: Formation of angle modulation in QAM quadratic grid raster!) Sketch this case in Diagram
4.1-1.
Feed a modulating sinusoidal signal with
Demodulation method : Synchronous fM1 = 400 Hz, AM1 = 3 V into the input filter in
demodulation front of modulator M1. Feed a modulating sinusoi-
Bandwidth requirement dal signal with fM2 = 2.5 kHz, AM2 = 1.5 V into the
for each baseband : b = fMmax input filter in front of modulator M2. For each dis-
Application : Transmission of play a modulating signal and the QAM signal at the
chrominance in output of the summing network. Sketch the results
NTSC and PAL TV in Diagrams 4.1-2/3. What do you observe?

16 kHz 20 kHz

Fig. 4.1-1: Principle experiment set-up for the generation of a QAM

14
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 4

Diagram 4.1-1: Diagram 4.1-2:

Phase adjustment in the QAM modulator The modulating signal sM1(t) with fM1 = 400 Hz and the
QAM signal

Diagram 4.1-3: Diagram 4.1-4:

The modulating signal sM2(t) with fM2 = 2.5 KHz and the Demodulated signals in QAM
QAM signal

Demodulation of QAM signals phase-shift required for this deviate somewhat

Assemble the QAM demodulator as specified in from 90°. What happens if you switch on the car-
Fig. 4.1-2. rier of a CF transmitter (CARRIER to ON)? Dis-
Set CARRIER switches on the carrier frequency play the demodulated signals on the oscillscope
transmitters (QAM modulator) to OFF. Connect and sketch them in Diagram 4.1-4. Explain your
the output of the summing network of the QAM findings.
modulator to the input of the QAM demodulator. Option: You can also measure the channel cros-
Connect the auxiliary carriers (0° and 90°) needed stalk by alternately reducing one modula-
for synchronous demodulation to D1 and D2. At ting signal [sM1 (t) or sM2 (t)] to 0 and
the QAM modulator optimize the phase-shift be- measuring the parasitic overcoupled si-
tween the carriers until the lowest amount of chan- gnal of the other channel at the correspon-
nel crosstalk possible is obtained. Why does the ding demodulator output.

Fig. 4.1-2: Design of the QAM demodulator

15
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 5

5 The independent sideband method (ISB)

When using 2 modulators and suitable filters it is

possible to generate a DSB signal in which the
sidebands carry different information. The princi-
ple of this method is shown in Fig. 5-1. The mod-
ulators M1 and M2 generate DSBSC signals. The
filters connected downstream alternately suppress
the lower sideband (LSB) or the upper sideband
(USB). Both the two (independent) sidebands as
well as the carrier are supplied to the output sum-
ming network. The output signal has the same
transmission bandwidth as the SSB in terms of the Fig. 5-1: Principle of independent sidebands
baseband. The independent sideband method could
be used to transmit 2 programs simultaneously cy response is represented in the logarithmic form
using one carrier. The receivers would then have to of the Bode diagram. This is realized by having the
be able to switch between the two sidebands, which logarithmized amplitude response g(2 π f) = 20 log
entails more sophisticated design. G(2 π f) and the linear phase response Φ(2 π f)
Demodulation methods : – envelope curve entered into 2 separate diagrams. As the frequency
demodulation axes in both diagrams are also divided logarithmi-
– synchronous cally, you gain insight into the frequency response
demodulation of the quadripole over extended frequency inter-
Bandwidth requirement vals. In this experiment, only the amplitude re-
on a baseband : b = fMmax sponse G(2 π f) is investigated. In Fig. 5.1-1 the
Application : indefinite, future AM amplitude response of an ideal low pass filter has
radio been sketched. The gain remains constant in the
passband range 0 < f < fc. When the upper critical
frequency fc is reached, the gain drops abruptly to
5.1 Recording amplitude frequency
the value G = 0. In Fig. 5.1-2 the amplitude re-
responses sponse of a real lowpass filter is depicted. The
Filters permit signals to be separated based on their passband range is not absolutely "smooth", i.e. the
frequencies. As quadripoles they are characterized gain is frequency-dependent. A ripple exists. Fur-
by their amplitude responses. The amplitude re- thermore, the slope at the end of the passband is
sponse is the graphic depiction of the gain (or at- only finitely steep.
tenuation) versus the frequency. Often the frequen-

G(2 π f) G(2 π f)

1 1

0
f fc f
kHz kHz
Fig. 5.1-1: Ideal LP Fig. 5.1-2: Real LP

16
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 5

Experiment procedure Table 5.1-1: Amplitude-frequency response

Use the experiment setup as shown in Fig. 5.1-3. Input filter AM: 5 V (10 VPP )
Amplitude frequency response of lowpass filters. f/kHz Ao /VPP G g/dB
Feed a sinusoidal signal with AM = 5 V (10 VPP )
into the input of the LP filter (CF transmitter). 0.1
Measure the amplitude at the output of the filter 0.2
using the oscilloscope (or a multimeter). Log the
0.3
measurement values in Table 5.1-1. Vary the fre-
quency fM of the input signal according to Table 0.4
5.1-1.
0.5
Calculate the amplitude response from measure-
ment values: 1.0
1.5
Ao ( f ) (5.1-1)
G (2 π f ) = 2.0
AM ( f )
2.5
Plot the amplitude response G(2 π f) in Diagram
3.0
5.1-1. Take the log of your results. Use the Table
5.1-1. Determine the logarithmized amplitude re- 3.1
sponse: 3.2
g(2 π f) = 20 log G(2 π f). 3.3
Plot a Bode diagram (Diagram 5.1-2). Determine 3.4
the 3 dB critical frequency of the filter.
3.5
3.6
3.7
3.8

3.9
4.0
5.0
6.0

MODE
FUNCTION

OUT

ATT
dB

20
40

TTL

Fig. 5.1-3: Experiment setup for recording amplitude-frequency responses

17
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 5

Diagram 5.1-1: Diagram 5.1-2:

Amplitude response of the input filter, linear representation Amplitude response of the input filter, Bode diagram

Amplitude-frequency responses of the channel

filters
Repeat the experiment for the channel filters CH1
and CH2 of the carrier frequency transmitters. For
this use Table 5.1-2 and sketch the results in Dia-
gram 5.1-3.

Diagram 5.1-3:
Amplitude responses of the channel filters, linear repre-
sentation

18
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 5

Table 5.1-2: Amplitude-frequency response of the channel filters

AM: 5 V (10 VPP)

CH1 CH2
f/kHz Ao/VPP Ao /VPP G1 G2 g1/dB g2/dB
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40

19
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 5

5.2 Design of an AM system for independent sidebands

Assemble the experiment in accordance with the suppression of unwanted sidebands during the
principle circuit diagram in Fig. 5.2-1. modulation of the carrier fC = 20 kHz, we obtain
the situation depicted in Table 5.2-2 for the fre-
Display of modulating signals and the multiplex
quencies fM of the modulating signals:
signal
The amplitude responses of the channel filters are
known from 5.1. If these filters are used for the

Table 5.2-2: Selection of the Suitable Modulation Frequencies

Channel filter mod. signal Demodulator filter mod. signal
Frequency range/kHz fM/kHz Frequency range/kHz fM/kHz

CH1 b = 11...15 b = 20 – fM: 9...5 0...3.4 XXXX

CH2 b = 22...28 b = 20 + f M: 2...8 0...3.4 2...3.4

Feed a modulating sinusoidal signal with Demodulation of ISB signals

fM2 = 800 Hz, AM = 8 V directly into the modula- Connect the output of the summing network with
tor M2. the inputs of the demodulators D1 and D2. The
Feed a modulating sinusoidal signal with fM1 ≈ 4.5 auxiliary carriers with fC = 20 kHz needed for syn-
kHz, AM = 8 V directly into the modulator M1. chronous demodulation are tapped directly from
Actually there is no suitable frequency range XXX the carrier frequency transmitter. Plot the demodu-
for M1, why not? Explain the situation using Table lated signals on the oscilloscope in Diagram 5.2-3
5.2-2. Plot a modulating signal and the ISB signal and explain them.
from the output of the summing network respec-
tively in Diagrams 5.2-1/2.

Fig. 5.2-1: Principal experiment set-up for AM generation with independent sidebands

20
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 5

Diagram 5.2-1: Diagram 5.2-2:

The modulating signal sM2(t) with fM2 = 800 Hz and the The modulating signal sM1(t) with fM1 = 4.5 kHz and the
ISB signal ISB signal

Diagram 5.2-3:
Demodulated signal in ISB

21
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 6

6 Signal transmission using frequency-division multiplexing

6.1 Multiple exploitation of transmis-

sion channels
For the transmission of a telephone call a band-
width of approx. 3 kHz suffices. It just so happens
that the transmission channels available for com-
munications systems are very wide-band in nature
and far exceed the frequency range required for a
speech channel. Conventional coaxial lines, for
example, reach bandwidths which are considerably
higher than 1 GHz. Since transmission channels are
expensive, the next logical step was to fully utilize
the capacity of the channel through multiple ex-
ploitation. Each of the speech channels appearing (b)
in the baseband are assigned to different frequency
“slots” through modulation with suitable carriers
so that congruent basebands (a) are positioned ad-
jacent to each other (b) on the transmission chan-
nel A(f), see Fig. 6.1-1. This is the basic idea of
frequency-division multiplex technology (FMUX).
a. The n speech channels occupy the same fre-
quency range of 0 < f < fc. Any simultaneous (a)
transmission via 1 common channel is impossi-
Fig. 6.1-1: Principle of the frequency-division multiple-
ble. xing method (FMUX).
b. Through multiplexing the speech channels are
systematically shifted into higher frequency The line-bound transmission of telephone signals
positions or bands. Now the speech channels in long-distance international telephone nets was
are lined up adjacently, speech channel to implemented on the basis of SSBSC signals in car-
speech channel. This precludes any overlap- rier frequency systems up until the mid-Eighties.
ping. The speech channels can be carried joint- In conjunction with the digitalization of communi-
ly over one transmission channel. cation networks (ISDN), today PCM links are in-
creasingly being used (time-division multiplex
methods). In view of the life span of commercial
communications networks, there is general agree-
ment that both multiplexing methods will exist
side-by-side right into the next century. The basic
unit of a frequency converter facility as it is needed
for frequency-division multiplexing is shown in
Fig. 6.1-2.

Multiplexing methods
The generation of a frequency-division multiplex
signal can be performed in different ways.
Fig. 6.1-2: Frequency conversion in the FMUX system.
1 Input filter (LP) 1. Direct modulation
2 Modulator If the baseband channels to be arranged in slots is
3 Channel filter set to the respective carrier frequency band with
(a) Speech signal in baseband position
(b) DSB signal only 1 carrier, then this is referred to as direct
(c) SSB signal at output of the channel filter modulation. Here you need a different carrier for

22
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 6

each baseband channel. To filter out the sideband

needed for SSB technology, a bandpass filter with
very sharp cutoff (channel filter) is required.
Fig. 6.1-3 shows a carrier frequency system used in
direct modulation for 4 baseband channels. Here the
sideband representation conventionally used for car-
rier frequency technology has been chosen. In the
carrier frequency band the sidebands occur in the
inverse position. The baseband channels 1...4 have
been assigned the carrier frequencies 60...76 kHz.
Fig. 6.1-3: CF system in direct modulation for 4 base-
2. Premodulation band channels
In order to reduce the technical complexity of the (A) Baseband position
channel filters, a 2-stage frequency conversion can (B) CF position, sidebands in normal position
be performed. However, to do this you need more
carrier frequencies and modulators. Premodulation
is depicted in Fig. 6.1-4. 5 Primary groups form 1 secondary group
5 secondary groups form 1 tertiary group etc.
3. Pregroup modulation
The table provides an overview of the frequencies
In expanded carrier frequency technology the sys-
and the number of speech channels.
tems are not limited to 2-fold frequency conver-
sion. In an initial frequency conversion, 3 base-
Frequency Number of
band channels are combined into a single pregroup. Name
range/kHz speech circuits
In this process you use the carrier frequencies 12,
16 and 20 kHz and only the upper sidebands are Pregroup 12...24 3
utilized. 4 pregroups each are then subjected to a
second modulation using carriers with 84, 96, 108, Primary group 60...108 12 (3 · 4)
and 120 kHz. This time the lower sidebands are Secondary
filtered out. The speech channels are thus present 312...552 60 (3 · 4 · 5)
group
in the inverse position. The required frequency
range lies between 60 and 108 kHz, as shown in Tertiary group 812...2044 300 (3 · 4 · 5 · 5)
Fig. 6.1-5. Further expansion of the carrier fre-
quency system follows the recommendation of
CCITT for carrier frequency systems with hierar-
chical structure:

Fig. 6.1-4: CF system with premodulation

A: Speech channels in the baseband
B: 1st modulation
C: Speech channels on the IF level, normal position
D: 2nd modulation
E: Speech channels on the IF level, inverted position

23
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 6

Fig. 6.1-5: Carrier frequency system with pregroup modulation

The system can be extended and in its highest stage for synchronous demodulation in the carrier fre-
can reach a grouping of 10800 speech channels! quency receivers using the pilot tone 160 kHz. The
principle of carrier recovery using the pilot tone is
Pilots and special characters
illustrated in Fig. 6.1-7.
The carrier frequency channel has a uniform raster
size of 4 kHz. The actual message signal occupies
the range between 0.3 kHz and 3.4 kHz. The two 6.2 Design of a 2 channel frequency-
frequency gaps or intervals in the upper and lower division multiplex system
information spectrum are reserved for the transmis- Use the experiment set-up as shown in Fig. 6.2-1.
sion of system-inherent characters, e.g. the fre- Display of the modulating signals and the multi-
quency 3850 Hz for switching purposes and mon- plex signal
itoring. Fig. 6.1-6. shows a carrier frequency chan- Feed a modulating sinusoidal signal with
nel in 4 kHz raster. f M1 = 1.6 kHz, AM1 = 5 V into the input filter in
At certain points in the frequency range of the car- front of the modulator M1. Feed a modulating si-
ier frequency system, there are additional control nusoidal signal with fM2 = 2.5 kHz, AM2 = 4 V into
signals, so-called pilots. The pilot, just like the the input filter in front of modulator M2. Display
multiplex signal, is exposed to all the interference on the oscilloscope each modulating signal and
effects on the channel. For that reason it can be frequency-division multiplex signal at the output
used for monitoring and for level stabilization. In of the summing network. Sketch your results in
the experiments carrier recovery can be carried out Diagrams 6.2-1/2.

~
~
~
~
~
Fig. 6.1-6: The carrier frequency channel Fig. 6.1-7: Carrier recovery using the pilot tone.

24
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 6

MODE MODE
FUNCTION FUNCTION

OUT OUT

ATT ATT
dB dB

0 0

20 20
40 40

TTL TTL

+15V

(+5V)

I>

I>

M1

0V

Fig. 6.2-1: Experiment set-up of a 2-channel carrier frequency system

Diagram 6.2-1: Diagram 6.2-2:

The modulating signal sM1(t) with fM1 = 1.6 kHz and the The modulating signal sM2(t) with fM2 = 2.5 kHz and the
frequency-division multiplex signal frequency-division muliplex signal

25
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation 6

Carrier recovery and demodulation

In practice the coharent auxiliary carrier required
for synchronous demodulation is frequently recov-
ered with a PLL circuit. The synchronization of the
PLL circuit is performed by the so-called pilot.
One pilot can be used for the joint synchronization
of many carrier frequency (CF) receivers. Display
the demodulated signals on the oscilloscope and
sketch them in Diagram 6.2-3. Explain your find-
ings. Diagram 6.2-3:
Change the pilot tone, i.e. now feed in the pilot of Demodulated signals in 2-channel FMUX system
the other CF transmitter. What do you observe?
Determining channel crosstalk
1 Crosstalk from the 16 kHz channel into the
20 kHz channel
Disconnect the input signal sM2 (20 kHz system).
Measure the output signals U2 at both CF receiv-
ers. The output signal at the 20 kHz receiver is 2 Crosstalk from 20 kHz channel in the 16 kHz
unwanted. It is generated by a less than optimum channel.
filter and, possibly, by non-linear effects. Assum- Repeat the experiment. Remove the input signal
ing that: sM1 (16 kHz system, i. e.), only modulate channel
U2,20: amplitude of the demodulated signal at 2. Determine the crosstalk attenuation according
the 20 kHz receiver to:
U2,16: amplitude of the demodulated signal at
the 16 kHz receiver U 2 , 20
d = 20 log
Then you obtain the channel crosstalk d from the (6.3-2)
U 2 , 16
relationship:
Use Table 6.2-2.
U 2 , 16
d = 20 log
(6.3-1)
U 2 , 20

Enter your measurement values into Table 6.2-1.

Table 6.2-1: Channel crosstalk from Table 6.2-2: Channel crosstalk from
CH1 (16) to CH2 (20) CH2 (20) to CH1 (16)
CH1 (16 kHz) CH2 (20 kHz) CH1 (16 kHz) CH2 (20 kHz)
Input U1/mV Input U1/mV
Output U2/mV Output U2 /mV
d = 20 log (U2,16/U2,20) = dB d = 20 log (U2,20/U2,16) = dB

26
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation Solutions

Solutions

Experiment results
4.1 Design of a QAM system
Display of modulating signals and the
multiplex signal

Diagram 4.1-1: Diagram 4.1-3:

Phase adjustment in the QAM modulator The modulating signal sM2(t) with fM2 = 2.5 KHz and the
90° adjustment of the carrier quadrature QAM signal
Channel 1: modulating signal AM : 1.5 V, sine, fM = 2.5 kHz
Channel 2: QAM

Unlike simple AM, the modulating signals cannot

If the carrier amplitudes are equal (AC90° = AC0°)
be detected in the dynamic characteristic of the
and there is a phase-shift of 90° between the
QAM signal.
harmonic oscillations, then a circle is obtained on
the oscilloscope in XY-modus. (Provided that the
grid on the screen is quadratic!) Demodulation of QAM signals

Diagram 4.1-2: Diagram 4.1-4:

The modulating signal sM1(t) with fM1 = 400 Hz and the Demodulated signals in QAM
QAM signal Channel 1: modulating signal sM1(t), fM1 = 2.5 kHz
Channel 1: modulating signal: approx 400 Hz, sine, AM ~3 V Channel 2: modulating signal sM2(t), fM2 = 400 Hz
Channel 2: QAM signal
Observation
The crosstalk between the channels cannot be
totally avoided. This can be improved by correcting
the phase-shift with the phase-shift controller on
the CF transmitter. Additional system internal
phase-shifts occur. Switching on a carrier has no
influence on demodulation.

27
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation Solutions

5.1 Recording amplitude frequency responses

Amplitude frequency response of lowpass filters

Table 5.1-1: Amplitude frequency response

Input filter AM: 5 V (10 V PP)
f/kHz Ao /VPP G g/dB
0.1 5.6 0.56 –5.04
0.2 8.1 0.81 –1.83
0.3 8.9 0.89 –1.01
0.4 9.5 0.95 –0.45
0.5 9.8 0.98 –0.18
1.0 10.2 1.02 0.17
Diagram 5.1-1:
1.5 10.2 1.02 0.17 Amplitude response of the input filter, linear representati-
on
2.0 10.2 1.02 0.17
2.5 9.5 0.95 –0.45
3.0 8.6 0.86 –1.31
3.1 8.1 0.81 –1.83
3.2 7.7 0.77 –2.27
3.3 7.3 0.73 –2.73
3.4 6.9 0.69 –3.22
3.5 6.4 0.64 –3.88
3.6 6.0 0.60 –4.44
3.7 5.6 0.56 –5.04
3.8 5.3 0.53 –5.51 Diagram 5.1-1:
Amplitude response of the input filter, Bode diagram
3.9 4.9 0.49 –6.2
Critical frequency of the input filter:
4.0 4.5 0.45 –6.94
fc3dB = approx. 3.4 kHz, see Table 5.1-1
5.0 2.2 0.22 –13.15 Note: The 3 dB critical frequency designates the
6.0 1.2 0.12 –18.42 drop in gain to the value 1 / 2 G0 ≈ 0.707
G0 where G0 is the gain for low frequencies
f ≈ 0 Hz. Or in the case of a bandpass filter
the gain in the passband.

28
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation Solutions

Amplitude frequency responses of the channel filters

Table 5.1-2: Amplitude frequency response of the channel filters

AM: 5 V (10 Vpp)
CH1 CH2
f/kHz Ao /Vpp Ao/V pp G1 G2 g 1/dB g2/dB
5 0.09 0.00 –40.92
6 0.08 0.00 –41.83
7 0.12 0.01 –38.42
8 0.22 0.02 –32.84
9 0.59 0.06 –24.54
10 1.78 0.18 –14.99
11 5.12 0.51 –5.81
12 9.87 0.99 –0.11
13 10.06 1.00 0.05
14 9.75 0.98 –0.22
15 7.48 0.16 0.75 0.02 –2.57 –35.92
16 4.19 0.22 0.42 0.02 –7.56 –32.77
17 2.25 0.34 0.26 0.03 –12.96 –29.68
18 1.25 0.58 0.13 0.06 –18.06 –24.76
19 0.81 1.08 0.08 0.11 –21.83 –19.74
20 0.44 2.01 0.04 0.20 –27.19 –13.85
21 0.30 4.38 0.03 0.44 –30.57 –7.43
22 0.22 7.56 0.02 0.76 –33.23 –2.43
23 0.16 9.56 0.02 0.96 –35.81 –0.39
24 0.13 9.69 0.01 0.97 –37.86 –0.29
25 0.12 9.69 0.01 0.97 –38.79 –0.29
26 9.31 0.93 –0.62
27 7.94 0.79 –2.00
28 6.75 0.68 –3.41
29 5.63 0.56 –5.00
30 3.69 0.37 –8.66
31 2.31 0.23 –12.72
32 1.41 0.14 –17.08
33 1.00 0.10 –20.00
34 0.72 0.07 –22.85
35 0.53 0.05 –25.50
36 0.44 0.04 –27.13
37 0.33 0.03 –29.68
38
39
40

29
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation Solutions

Diagram 5.2-2:
The modulating signal sM1(t) with fM1 = 4.5 Hz and the ISB
signal
Channel 1: modulating signal approx. 4.5 Hz; approx.
AM = 8 V
Channel 2: ISB signal

Diagram 5.1-3: The modulating signal sM1 (t) cannot be detected in

Amplitude responses of the channel filters, linear repre- the envelope of the ISB signal.
sentation The frequency fM2 may not be selected much hig-
her than 4.5 kHz, otherwise synchronous modula-
The bandpass filters have the gain G(f) ≈ 1 in the tion is no longer possible. The output of the modu-
passband lator M1 is filtered through the channel filter CH1.
3-dB critical frequencies of the channel filters: If M1 is operated with fC = 20 kHz, then the
modulating signal sM1 (t) has to have a frequency
CH1 CH2 fM1 in the range from 5...9 kHz to be transmitted
Lower critical
11 22
through CH1. However, this means that fM1 is too
frequency/kHz
high for the LP in the synchronous demodulator.
Upper critical The same holds true for M2.
15 28
frequency/kHz

5.2 Design of an AM system for indepen-

dent sidebands
Display of modulating signals and the multiplex Demodulation of ISB signals
signal

Diagram 5.2-3: Demodulated signals in ISB

Diagram 5.2-1: Channel 1: Sinusoidal approx. 4 kHz
The modulating signal sM2(t) with fM2 = 800 Hz and the Amplitude matched to the demodulator lowpass filter and
ISB signal passband of the channel filter
Channel 1: modulating signal approx. 800 Hz, AM ≈ 8 V Channel 2: Sinusoidal approx. 800 kHz
Channel 2: ISB signal Amplitude adjusted

The modulating signal sM2 (t) cannot be detected in

the envelope of the ISB signal.

30
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation Solutions

6.2 Design of a 2-channel frequency- errors can arise in the PLL circuits. In this case
division multiplex system demodulation becomes irregular, i.e. the output
Representation of modulating signals and the mul- signals demonstrate a slight jitter.
tiplex signal
Determining the channel crosstalk
1 Crosstalk from the 16 kHz channel to the
20 kHz channel

Table 6.2-1: Channel crosstaslk from

CH1 (16) to CH2 (20)

CH1 (16 kHz) CH2 (20 kHz)

InputU1/mV 3900 0

Output U2 /mV 2500 16

Diagram 6.2-1:
The modulating signal sM1(t) with fM1= 1.6 kHz and the d = 20 log (U2,16/U2,20) = 44 dB
FMUX signal

2 Crosstalk from the 20 kHz channel to the

16 kHz channel.

Table 6.2-2: Channel crosstaslk from

CH2 (20) to CH1 (16)
CH1 (16 kHz) CH2 (20 kHz)
Input U1/mV 0 2800
Output U2/mV 10 1350

Diagram 6.2-2: d = 20 log (U2,20/U2,16) = 43 dB

The modulating signal sM2(t) with fM2 = 2.5 kHz and the
FMUX signal

Carrier recovery and demodulation

Diagram 6.2-3:
Demodulated signals in a 2-channel frequency-division
multiplexing system

Altering the pilot signal causes no significant chan-

ges in the demodulated signals. The pilots of the
16 kHz or 20 kHz CF transmitter are equivalent.
However, if both pilot signals are simultaneously
fed into the carrier frequency link, synchronization

31
 TPS 7.2.1.4 Applied Amplitude Modulation Keywords
Solutions

Keywords
Amplitude response .......................................................................................................................... 16
Baseband channel ............................................................................................................................. 23
Bode diagram .................................................................................................................................... 16
Carrier frequency system .................................................................................................................. 22
Carrier suppression ........................................................................................................................... 13
Channel crosstalk .............................................................................................................................. 26
Channel filter .................................................................................................................................... 11
Demodulation, coharent .................................................................................................................... 11
Direct modulation ............................................................................................................................. 22
Frequency-division multiplex technology ........................................................................................ 22
In-phase components ........................................................................................................................ 13
Input filter ......................................................................................................................................... 11
Modulation product .......................................................................................................................... 13
Multiplex signal ................................................................................................................................ 24
Pilot ................................................................................................................................................... 24
PLL circuit ........................................................................................................................................ 12
Pregroup modulation......................................................................................................................... 23
Premodulation ................................................................................................................................... 23
Product modulator ............................................................................................................................ 10
Quadrature components .................................................................................................................... 13
Sidebands, independent .................................................................................................................... 16
Synchronous demodulation ............................................................................................................... 12

32