Question
How can data rate be increased without increasing bandwidth?
Answer Options
- A) It is impossible
- B) Increasing analog-to-digital conversion resolution
- C) Using a more efficient digital code
- D) Using forward error correction
Correct Answer: C
Explanation
The maximum data rate (bits per second) is fundamentally constrained by the available bandwidth (Hz) according to the Shannon-Hartley theorem. However, a common goal in digital communication is to maximize the amount of information sent per unit of bandwidth (spectral efficiency, measured in bits/second/Hz).
If the available bandwidth is fixed, the data rate can be increased by using a more efficient digital code or modulation scheme. This is achieved by either using data compression (like Varicode in \text{PSK}31) or by using complex modulation schemes (like \text{QAM}) where a single symbol (Baud) transmits multiple bits of information. This increases the bits/second without changing the symbol rate (Baud/bandwidth).
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