Noise

1. Noise is any disturbance that interferes with data transmission and corrupts the quality of the signal. Below are some examples of where noise can be encountered in data transmission and common causes.

Audio or Video signal noise

Degradation in audio and video signals can reduce the overall quality of the audio and video. Often noise in audio and video is caused by one or more of the below connection related issues.

  1. Verify all your connections are properly connected.
  2. If you have more than wire used for audio or video or have other cords or cables used for other devices make sure they are separated. Cables with poor shielding can cause noise in any close wiring.
  3. Try replacing cables.

Electrical signal noise

Electrical or power noise can cause disruption in power causing devices to temporarily or permanently fail.

  • To help protect against power spikes, surges, and other line noise have all your electrical equipment connected to a surge protector.
  • To protect your devices from failing in the event of a power outage connect your equipment to a UPS.

Wireless signal noise

Wireless noise or poor connection is often caused by one or more of the causes listed below.

  • Receiver blocked - If the antenna is not setup properly or wireless receiver is blocked it can cause noise.
  • Out of range - As you get further away from the receiver your signal decreases and can cause noise or lost connection
  • Other wireless interference - If other wireless devices are around your location these other signals can disrupt your connection.
  • Lower power - If the batteries are failing on the wireless device it can degrade how much of the signal is being received.

2. Noise can also refer to an audible sound that can be heard.

Also see: Artifacts, Distortion, EMI, RFI, Sound definitions, White noise