Since data ultimately consists of bits, the transmitter needs a way of sending both 0s and 1s
to transmit data from one location to another. An AC or DC signal by itself does not perform
this task. However, if a signal is fluctuated or altered, even slightly, the data can be properly
sent and received. This modulated signal is now capable of distinguishing between 0s and 1s
and is referred to as a carrier signal.
Three components of a wave that can be fluctuated or modified to create a carrier signal are
amplitude, frequency, and phase.