What Is an FM Transceiver?

The FM transceiver is a type of radio transceiver that is capable of receiving and transmitting a frequency modulation (FM) signal. Equipment of this type ensures the signal is within a certain band range and can be easily picked up by other transceivers that are structured to receive and send FM signals. One of the more common examples of an FM transceiver includes certain types of ham radio equipment that can be used to make and maintain connections over long distances. Equipment of this type is used by amateur ham radio experts as well as more sophisticated communication equipment used by the military and other organizations in various parts of the world.

With the FM transceiver, the device is capable of sending and receiving frequency modulation signals. The nature of the signals may be voice communications, music, or any other type of audio transmission. Unlike an FM transmitter, which can only send signals on the FM receiver that is capable of receiving the frequency modulation broadcast, the FM transceiver is configured for both transmission and reception of signals within a certain bandwidth. This makes the device ideal for a number of applications, ranging from enjoying conversations with people located halfway around the world as well as a providing a means to manage proprietary communications on protected bandwidths.

Among the different types of FM transceivers, there are sets designed for amateur as well as professional use. Amateurs may use transceiving equipment to communicate with other radio enthusiasts around the world. While other communication tools have largely replaced the use of the FM transceiver in some applications, there are still areas of the world in which this particular type of equipment is used by professional organizations, including military and law enforcement units. Since using an FM transceiver is relatively simple, requiring nothing more than adjusting the gain and using the tuner on the equipment to find the right position on the band to send and receive, this remains a viable option, especially during natural disasters that may render other communication options such as telephone communications temporarily unavailable.

Enthusiasts can buy an FM transceiver for use, or purchase kits that make it possible to build a transmitter to specifications. The costs involved will vary, based on the range of the device and the intended purpose. Many electronics companies offer both options at reasonable prices. Today, it is possible to purchase the transceivers in a number of retail outlets as well as directly from manufacturers via the Internet.