In telephony, what does 'echo' refer to?

In telephony, 'echo' refers to the audible feedback of one’s own voice into the receive path. This phenomenon occurs when sound from the speaker (the person you are speaking with) travels back through the communication path and is heard by the original speaker, creating a confusing auditory experience. This can happen due to various factors, such as poor line conditions, improper equipment setup, or issues with voice codecs.

Understanding echo is important for telecommunication professionals because it can significantly affect call quality and user experience. Recognizing and addressing echo involves techniques such as using echo cancellation technology or ensuring proper installation of telephony equipment to minimize the return of sound waves. This knowledge is key in troubleshooting and maintaining effective communication systems.