What is meant by Adjacent channel interference (ACI)?

Adjacent channel interference (ACI) refers to the disruption that occurs when signals from nearby communication channels interfere with one another. This typically happens in wireless communication systems where channels are closely spaced in frequency. If multiple channels operate in proximity, their signals can overlap and create interference that affects the clarity and quality of the transmission.

The notion of all channels talking at the same time captures the essence of ACI, where simultaneous transmissions on nearby frequencies can degrade performance due to signal overlap. Each channel's transmission can impact others, leading to poor reception and communication errors, which is a significant concern in designing and using communication systems effectively.

This definition provides a clear understanding of how ACI manifests in real-world scenarios, highlighting the importance of proper channel separation and frequency management to minimize interference.