What type of problems do intermodulation products cause in signals?

Intermodulation products occur when two or more signals combine in a non-linear device, such as a mixer or amplifier. These products generate additional signals at frequencies that are the sum and difference of the original frequencies and their harmonics. This phenomenon can lead to distortion and interference within the communication system, negatively impacting signal quality.

The presence of intermodulation products can clutter the frequency spectrum, making it difficult to distinguish between desired signals and unwanted noise. As a result, this can severely degrade overall system performance by introducing unwanted artifacts that complicate signal processing, thereby causing cross-talk between channels and interfering with the clarity and quality of the transmitted signals.

Understanding this aspect is critical for maintaining effective and clear communication links, especially in crowded frequency environments.