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Megahertz Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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megahertz

[หˆmษ›ษกษ™หŒhษœrts ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

frequency measurement

Megahertz (MHz) is a unit of frequency equivalent to one million hertz (cycles per second). It is commonly used in the context of radio frequencies, computer processing speeds, and telecommunications. Megahertz helps in measuring the bandwidth of signals and the speed of electronic components. The term is especially prevalent in discussions about radio waves, processors, and oscillators.

Synonyms

MHz, frequency unit.

Examples of usage

  • The radio station broadcasts at a frequency of 100 megahertz.
  • This computer processor operates at 2.5 megahertz.
  • The signal quality improves at higher megahertz.
  • We need to tune the receiver to 98.5 megahertz.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In the 1980s, megahertz became a buzzword with the rise of personal computers, indicating their processing speed.
  • A 1 MHz processor can perform one million cycles per second, crucial for running programs efficiently.

Science

  • Electromagnetic waves, such as radio waves, are often measured in megahertz to describe their frequency.
  • One megahertz equals a frequency of one million cycles per second, which is key in telecommunications.

Pop Culture

  • Video game consoles in the 90s boasted megahertz measurements to show off their processing capabilities, influencing gamers' choices.
  • The 'megahertz war' between computer manufacturers highlighted fierce competition during the tech boom in the late 90s.

History

  • The introduction of MHz in the early computer industry marked a significant shift in computing power and capability.
  • In 1994, a landmark moment occurred with the release of the first commercial 1 GHz (1,000 MHz) processor, revolutionizing performance.

Origin of 'megahertz'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Mega' means a million, while 'hertz' comes from Heinrich Hertz, a physicist who helped us understand waves.
  • The term started being used in the 20th century as electronics became more advanced.

The term 'megahertz' originated from the International System of Units (SI) as a way to quantify frequency. The prefix 'mega-' is derived from the Greek word 'megas,' meaning 'great' or 'large'. It was first used in the 1960s as radio technology advanced and a need arose for a more compact way to express large frequencies. The hertz (Hz) itself is named after Heinrich Hertz, a German physicist who made significant contributions to the study of electromagnetic waves in the late 19th century. As technology progressed, the use of megahertz expanded beyond radio frequencies to include data processing speeds in computers and telecommunications, establishing it as a standard measure for various electronic and digital technologies.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,539 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.