Receiver - Definition and Overview

The word receiver has a number of different meanings:

• In communications and information processing, a receiver is the recipient (observer) of a message (information), which is sent from a source (object). Receivers decode messages.
• A receiver (radio) is an electronic device that receives a radio signal from a transmitter and converts it to useful information in the form of sound, pictures, computer data, navigational position information, etc. An external receiving antenna may be required.
• A receiver (electronics) is a combination of a radio broadcast tuner and an amplifier for the speakers, as well as selection for sources such as a CD or tape, and adjustments for audio, such as a graphic equalizer or basic tone controls.
• On a telephone, the "receiver" is the handset, particularly the earpiece.
• A receiver (fire arms) is the part of the firearm that houses the operating parts of the gun.
• Receiver (in football): a wide receiver or tight end

See also

• receivership, receipt