A superheterodyne receiver is a Radio Frequency receiver method
that multiplies the received signal frequency with a local
oscillator frequency to get frequencies that are the sum and
difference of the 2 frequencies. For example, if the received
signal is 5MHz and the local oscillator frequency is 4MHz, they are
multiplied together. 1MHz and 9MHz frequencies would be gotten.
Usually the 1MHz is the Intermediate Frequency (IF). It will be
admitted (through a band pass filter) later passed through the
required electronic circuits for proper processing. There is also
the method of the Variable Tuned Filter.
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An oscillator is an electronic circuit that produces an
electronic wave or signal. The oscillator signal is the signal the
oscillator puts out. An oscillator can put out different
frequencies and different types of waves depending on how it is
designed. These signals have many different uses in electronics.
For instance you can use it to convert DC (direct current) from a
battery to 60 Hz AC (alternating current) to use in a home. Some
oscillators are variable like what you have in your radio or TV for
picking up different signals or stations. To produce an oscillator
signal: if you know a lot about electronics you can build your own
from parts you can get at some place like Radio Shack. Otherwise
you can buy an oscillator. Radio Shack might have one or you might
have to look on line. You also have to know what kind of wave and
frequency you need to be sure and get an oscillator that produces
that signal. If the signal you need is unusual you may need a
variable oscillator.