How Do You Calculate the Step Response of an LTI System?

In summary, to calculate the step response of the system, we can use convolution by first finding the transfer function and then multiplying it by the input function in the z-domain. Afterwards, we can use the inverse z-transform to obtain the step response in the time domain.
  • #1
Cossie
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Homework Statement



Calculate the step response of the system (i.e. response to x(n) = u(n)

Previously calculated the impulse response becomes h(n) 3/11 [itex](5/8)^{n}[/itex] u(n) + 5/22[itex](1/8)^{n}[/itex]u(n)


Homework Equations



H(z) =[itex]\frac{Y(z)}{X(z)}[/itex]

u(n) =[itex]\frac{1}{1-z^{-1}}[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution



Convolution seems a possible way but that would involve an insane amount of maths. But convolution is multiplication in the z domain. Transforming the impulse response back we get
H(z)=3/11 [itex]\frac{1}{1-\frac5 8z^{-1}}[/itex] + 5/22[itex] \frac{1}{1-\frac1 8z^{-1}}[/itex]

Then take from the other side x(z) and multiple the top halves by X(z).

After that switch x(z) for the u(n). After doing that it becomes something incredibly stupid that i actually can't manage to write it on this! Any help would be appreciated!
 
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  • #2


Thank you for sharing your question with us. It seems like you are on the right track with using convolution to calculate the step response of the system. Here are some steps that may help guide you:

1. Recall that the step response is the output of a system when the input is a unit step function (u(n)). This means that X(z) = 1/(1-z^-1).

2. Use the given impulse response, h(n), to calculate the transfer function, H(z). You have correctly transformed h(n) into the z-domain using the formula H(z) = Y(z)/X(z). Make sure to simplify the fractions before proceeding.

3. Multiply the transfer function, H(z), by X(z). This will give you the output, Y(z), in the z-domain.

4. Use the inverse z-transform to transform Y(z) back into the time domain. This will give you the step response, y(n), as a function of n.

5. Simplify the expression for y(n) to get the final solution.

I hope this helps. If you are still having trouble, feel free to share your work and I would be happy to provide further guidance. Good luck with your calculations!
 

FAQ: How Do You Calculate the Step Response of an LTI System?

1. What is a step response of a LTI system?

A step response of a LTI (Linear Time-Invariant) system is the output of the system when a sudden change or "step" is applied to the input. It shows how the system responds over time to this change, and is an important characteristic in analyzing the behavior and performance of the system.

2. How is the step response of a LTI system calculated?

The step response of a LTI system is calculated by taking the Laplace transform of the system's transfer function and then using the inverse Laplace transform to obtain the time-domain response. Alternatively, the step response can be obtained by solving the system's differential equations.

3. What is the importance of the step response in system analysis?

The step response is important in system analysis because it provides information about the stability, transient behavior, and frequency response of the system. It can also reveal any potential issues or limitations in the system's design.

4. How does a LTI system's step response differ from a non-LTI system?

A LTI system's step response will exhibit characteristics such as linearity, time-invariance, and superposition, which means that the response to a step input will not change over time or when different inputs are applied. In contrast, a non-LTI system's step response may vary depending on the input and time.

5. Can the step response be used to predict the output of a LTI system for any input?

Yes, the step response can be used to predict the output of a LTI system for any input by using the convolution integral. This mathematical operation allows for the calculation of the response to any input by convolving the input signal with the system's impulse response, which is related to the system's step response.

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