MODULATION

Description

H03C covers electronic circuits and devices for modulating signals, where information is encoded onto a carrier wave by varying one or more of its characteristics (amplitude, frequency, phase, or pulse properties). This subclass encompasses modulator designs, modulation techniques, and integrated circuit implementations across analog and digital domains, including amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), phase modulation (PM), and pulse modulation methods. Related demodulation circuits are classified separately under H03D, while specific modulation applications in telecommunications, broadcasting, and radar systems may be further detailed in their respective technology classes.

Filing statistics

IPC subclass H03C recorded 1,283 patent applications worldwide between 2013 and 2023. Annual filings declined from 191 in 2013 to 71 in 2023 (-63%). The most active applicants in class H03 are QUALCOMM (5,625 applications), SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS COMPANY (5,496 applications) and MURATA MANUFACTURING COMPANY (5,478 applications).

Source: EPO PATSTAT, worldwide filings

Additional Content

Masers, lasers Coding, decoding or code conversion, in general