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Average Power Output in the context of amplitude-modulated (AM) transmission refers to the mean radio-frequency power that a transmitter delivers over a specified period, typically one cycle of the modulating signal.
- Definition: This is the average amount of power that is radiated by the transmitter as it modulates the amplitude of the carrier signal according to the information signal. The power output fluctuates as the amplitude of the carrier wave changes, but the average gives a useful measure of the overall power transmitted.
- Calculation: To calculate the average power output, the instantaneous power output over a cycle or specified interval of the modulating signal is measured, and then these values are averaged over the entire cycle.
- Usage: Average power output is crucial in assessing the performance and efficiency of AM transmitters, ensuring they operate within desired power levels for effective communication.
This measure helps in understanding the efficiency and effectiveness of the transmitted signal, particularly in ensuring the signal reaches its intended destination with sufficient strength.
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