What type of system is most affected by RF interference?

• A. Wired
• B. Wireless
• C. Analog
• D. Hybrid

Answer: (B)

RF interference hits wireless communications the hardest because it relies on radio waves to move signals between sensors and the control panel. When other devices or environmental sources emit on or near the same frequencies, the received signal becomes noisy or distorted, which can cause missed reports, nuisance alarms, or delayed status information. Wired systems transmit signals through physical cables, and shielding, grounding, and the direct electrical path greatly reduce the impact of ambient RF noise, making them far more resistant to RF interference. Analog aspects of a system can pick up noise too, but the fundamental vulnerability tied to RF interference is the wireless link. Hybrid systems mix wired and wireless, so they’re less vulnerable than pure wireless, yet the wireless portion remains exposed. Hence, the wireless system is the most affected.