Difference Between Intereference & Noise

Noise

• Noise is a randomly generated signal that is mixed with the main signal. For example, noise can be caused by the flow of electrons over the metalized lines on a printed circuit board. Another example of a noise source is the magnetic field produced around a power cable when the current is flowing through it. Noise can also be introduced when is signal is transmitted via an optical cable, as the light can scatter and reflect inside the optical fibers.

Example of Noise Problems

• When you listen to music from a CD player, you may notice a faint hiss during quiet passages or the silence in between tracks. This is an example of noise. It can become intrusive, which is why CD systems typically have noise reduction technology. Another example is a buzzing sound caused when insufficiently shielded audio cables are too close to power cables. TV static is another example of problem noise.

Interference

• When a non-random signal transmitted from an outside source becomes mixed with your main signal, this is known as interference. Interference may happen as a result of a problem with either the transmitter or receiver in a system. It may also occur when an unusually strong signal comes into range of a receiver.

Examples of Problem Interference

• If your TV or radio is badly tuned or shielded, you may experience interference. In older analogue TVs, this could lead to picture patterning. In digital television, you may see the picture freeze or break up into colored blocks. An example of radio interference is when a police car or a taxi drives by while you're listening to a program and you find yourself hearing the car's signals instead.