Acoustic jamming is essentially a tool that is used to send audio signals that can be used to jam listening devices, or render a weapon unable to respond to any type of remote control. Developed primarily as a wartime defensive measure, it is commonly employed today in high security situations. Along with use to provide privacy in business settings, this technology is also employed in several other professions as well.
The basic operation of acoustic jamming devices has to do with creating a deliberate radiation field of electronic or acoustic signals that will block or at least obscure any invasive signals that would allow point to point contact. Essentially, the field would make listening in on a remote conversation impossible, often by creating a wide band of white noise. At the same time, the same principle of acoustic jamming would inhibit the ability to operate electric or mechanical devices remotely, since communication with the device would be impossible.
During the middle of the 20th century, weapons systems were becoming increasingly sophisticated. One of the innovations was the development of electroacoustical signals that could be used to control missiles remotely. Utilizing specific frequencies, it was possible to control the direction of the missile, as well as use an audio sequence to detonate the device. In order to deal with this type of weaponry, acoustic jamming devices were created. Essentially, the jamming process involved finding just the right frequency to render the missile ineffective, or at least alter the course of the device so that it would detonate in a relatively uninhabited area.
In non-combat applications, many businesses make use of acoustical jamming in order to secure a conference room or enclosed space from the possibility of being monitored by remote listening devices. High-powered acoustic jamming equipment is available today that will provide either coverage to a small area — sometimes referred to as spot jamming — as well as a wider area. Residential consumers can also purchase acoustic jamming equipment for the home that has a limited range.