AM

Amplitude Modulation

A method of transmitting radio signals by varying the carrier wave’s amplitude, or strength, according to the input audio or data signal. AM radio was one of the earliest broadcast technologies to gain widespread popularity, allowing stations to reach broad audiences over long distances, often even beyond state or national borders.

AM radio signals travel as ground waves and skywaves, making them particularly effective for airing programming and advertisements at great ranges, especially at night when atmospheric conditions allow signals to skip across vast areas. Although AM radio today faces competition from FM, satellite, and digital platforms, it remains a vital medium for reaching niche audiences and local communities.

From a sales and marketing perspective, AM radio offers cost-effective advertising opportunities and can be highly targeted to specific regional markets. Advertisers leverage these broadcasts to connect with loyal listener bases who tune in for talk shows, sports commentary, news updates, and other spoken-word content. Local businesses often find AM spots an accessible and budget-friendly entry point into broadcast advertising, allowing them to reinforce brand awareness and engage with potential customers who trust long-established local radio personalities. In addition, AM’s broad coverage area supports national and regional campaigns, enabling marketers to reach a wide demographic spread at relatively low production and placement costs.

In a world where digital channels vie for consumer attention, AM radio’s distinctive voice-focused programming and its heritage as a familiar, community-based platform still make it a valuable channel for sales-driven marketing efforts.

• Abbreviation: AM

Additional Acronyms for AM

• AM - Account Manager