For some data rates, the numbers work out as shown in Fig. 2-2. From these
numbers, it is clear that trying to send at 9600 bps over a voice-grade telephone
line will transform Fig. 2-1(a) into something looking like Fig. 2-1(c), making
accurate reception of the original binary bit stream tricky. It should be obvious
that at data rates much higher than 38.4 kbps, there is no hope at all for binary signals,
even if the transmission facility is completely noiseless. In other words, limiting
the bandwidth limits the data rate, even for perfect channels. However, coding
schemes that make use of several voltage levels do exist and can achieve higher
data rates. We will discuss these later in this chapter.