How do signal jammers interfere with radio frequencies?
Signal jammers depend on the science of radio frequencies. They can stop devices from communicating by mimicking the same frequencies that the device uses. But how does mimicking a signal stop communication?
The best way to think about radio frequencies is to visualize a horizontal line. On the line, different sections represent different types of frequencies.
Each section handles specific frequencies, including long-wave radio, microwaves, and even visible light. Devices have standard frequencies that they operate on. Knowing which ones they use can help design a jammer for that device.
When several devices all operate on the same frequency band, the channel gets crowded. Having too many devices on one channel can cause the connection to slow down and fade. Each device is getting drowned out by the other.
A signal jammer can overcrowd that frequency by sending very strong signals, and bumping devices off.
How do cell phone jammers work?
The main purpose of a cell phone jammer is to stop all cell phones in the location from being able to communicate with the cell phone tower. The concept is simple, but the methods used to achieve this are quite complicated.
Cell phone jammers work by targeting frequencies that cell phones typically use to communicate. Cell phones use different frequencies because they send and receive signals simultaneously at all times. Cell phones can also switch between frequencies to try to find the best channel for communication.
Less sophisticated cell phone jammers attempt to block cell phone signals by jamming only one frequency. Often, jamming one frequency that the cell phone uses can trick the device into believing that there is no signal. In turn, the device will not function.
More sophisticated cell phone jammers can block more than one frequency at one time. These jammers can be set to target several different frequencies that the cell phones are using, to stop both sending and receiving data. This method can also help jam signals that cell phones will attempt to switch to for a better connection as well.
More sophisticated devices, therefore, can jam cell phones on multiple networks and cut off all communication of data.
Are signal jammers Illegal?
The biggest concern about signal jammers is that they can block emergency communications. If there is a fire, robbery, assault, or other emergencies, cell phone jammers can stop those in danger from calling for help. This is especially true when used in public places where large crowds will be rendered defenseless.Any law enforcement and first responders that arrive at a scene might also be unable to communicate. They won’t have their cell phones to communicate with other emergency response members.For these reasons, many countries have made signal jammers illegal in most scenarios. The United States in particular has made it illegal to selling, distribute, and market signal jammers to American citizens. Only under the rarest circumstances can law enforcement even use signal jammers.In other countries, law enforcement and government agencies are widely allowed to use signal jammers. In some countries, it’s even allowed for some civilian organizations and individuals to use signal jammers in specific circumstances as long as safety guidelines are followed.In a place like the US, owning and operating a signal jammer can result in a $300,000 fine and even imprisonment. Deliberately causing endangerment can result in a $1 million fine and 5 years in prison.