A Voltage-Controlled Oscillator (VCO) is an electronic oscillator whose output frequency is determined by an input voltage. This means that by varying the input voltage, the frequency of the oscillator can be adjusted, making VCOs essential components in various applications where frequency modulation is required.
Key Applications of VCOs:
- Frequency Modulation (FM) and Phase Modulation (PM): VCOs are fundamental in generating FM and PM signals, where the frequency or phase of the carrier signal is varied in accordance with the input signal.
- Phase-Locked Loops (PLLs): VCOs are integral components in PLLs, which are used for frequency synthesis, clock generation, and signal demodulation.
- Signal Synthesis: In synthesizers, VCOs generate waveforms whose frequency can be adjusted by a control voltage, allowing for the creation of a wide range of musical tones.
- Communication Systems: VCOs are used in communication systems for frequency modulation and demodulation, enabling the transmission and reception of information over various frequency bands.