Question

The figure given above shows the block diagram of a generalized communication system. Identify the element labelled ‘X’ and write its functions.

Answer 1

Hint: Communication is the process of transferring information to the receiver from the sender. And a communication system is a network of interconnected systems used in the process of communication. The message is transmitted through the communication channels.

Complete answer:
The element labelled as ‘X’ is the communication channel and it functions as a connecting medium between sender and receiver.

First of all, we know that a communication system is an integrated whole of different units that are transmission systems, communication channels and receivers. Here the sender relays the message which is transmitted through the communication channel and reaches the user who is the receiver. So the function of the communication channel is to connect the receiver and the sender.

From the above figure, we can understand that in a communication system, the sender, transmits the information as message signals and for that a transmitter is used. The function of a transmitter is to convert the information being sent into a form that is transmittable and then transmit.

If these signals are of low frequency, then they are superimposed on a high frequency carrier and this process is called modulation. For this a device called modulator is used. This is to ensure that the signal does not get dispersed when it is being transmitted over long distances. Once it reaches the receiver it is demodulated and is provided to the user.

Note: Communication channel is usually a physical transmission medium; an example is wire. There are also other wireless media that is now available. For example in radio broadcasting, mobile networks etc.