Multipath Noise; Flutter/Skip Noise; Weak Signal Noise - Mazda 6 Owner's Manual

Signals from an FM transmitter are similar
to beams of light because they do not
bend around corners, but they do re ect.
Unlike AM signals, FM signals cannot
travel beyond the horizon. Therefore, FM
stations cannot be received at the great
distances possible with AM reception.
Ionosphere
FM wave
FM wave
100—200 km (60—120 miles)
Atmospheric conditions can also affect
FM reception. High humidity will cause
poor reception. However, cloudy days may
provide better reception than clear days.

Multipath noise

Since FM signals can be re ected by
obstructions, it is possible to receive both
the direct signal and the re ected signal
at the same time. This causes a slight
delay in reception and may be heard as a
broken sound or a distortion. This problem
may also be encountered when in close
proximity to the transmitter.
Direct
AM wave
Reflected wave

Flutter/Skip noise

Signals from an FM transmitter move in
straight lines and become weak in valleys
between tall buildings, mountains, and
other obstacles. When a vehicle passes
through such an area, the reception
conditions may change suddenly, resulting
in annoying noise.

Weak signal noise

In suburban areas, broadcast signals
become weak because of distance from the
transmitter. Reception in such fringe areas
is characterised by sound breakup.
Interior Features
Audio System
5–15