FHSS (frequency hopping spread spectrum)
A technique used by wireless technologies such as HomeRF and Bluetooth to reduce interference and snooping.
FHSS, co-invented by actress Hedy Lamarr, changes the frequency of a transmission at regular intervals faster than an intruder could retune a jamming device designed to block a transmission running on a particular frequency. For FHSS to be used successfully, the receiver must know the frequency-hopping pattern so that it can interpret the transmission.
FHSS is said to consume less power and allow more access points than the rival DSSS to coexist in the same area without blocking one another from transmitting. However, this comes at the price of slower overall transmission rates.
From Comparing spread spectrum technologies, Network World Wireless Newsletter, 06/25/01.
Additional resources
Radio communications considerations
Tips for deciding between DSSS and RSSS systems. Network World Wireless Newsletter, 06/27/01.
Topic: Wireless
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