Plotting & Finding Fourier Coefficients of Waveform Cycle

In summary, the conversation is about finding the Fourier coefficients for a given waveform and plotting the first cycle of the waveform. The author is unsure of how to proceed and asks for help. The questions posed include determining the period of the waveform, the even or odd nature of the function, and the formulas for an and bn.
  • #1
hammadmunawar
13
0

Homework Statement



Given the first cycle of a waveform:

f(t)=2u(t)-2u(t-1)+u(t-2)-u(t-3)

-- Plot the first cycle of the wave form
-- Find the Fourier Coefficients

Homework Equations



Given above

The Attempt at a Solution



No idea yet. Will appreciate any help.
 
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  • #2
Although the author should have specified the period, one might assume from what you were given that the period is P = ?

If you draw another cycle for negative t, would the function look even, odd, or neither?

What are the formulas for an and bn, remembering that u function has values of only 0 or 1.

Answering those questions might get you started.
 

FAQ: Plotting & Finding Fourier Coefficients of Waveform Cycle

What are Fourier coefficients and why are they important in waveform analysis?

Fourier coefficients represent the contribution of different frequencies to a given waveform. They are important in waveform analysis because they allow us to break down complex signals into simpler components, making it easier to study and understand them.

How do you plot Fourier coefficients for a waveform cycle?

To plot Fourier coefficients for a waveform cycle, you can use a mathematical tool such as MATLAB or Python's numpy library. These tools have functions specifically designed for calculating and plotting Fourier coefficients. You will need to input the waveform data and specify the number of coefficients you want to plot.

What is the process for finding the Fourier coefficients of a waveform cycle?

The process for finding Fourier coefficients involves using a mathematical technique known as the Fourier series. This involves breaking down the waveform into its individual frequencies and calculating the contribution of each frequency to the overall signal. This can be done using integrals or numerical methods.

Can Fourier coefficients be used to reconstruct a waveform cycle?

Yes, Fourier coefficients can be used to reconstruct a waveform cycle. By using the calculated coefficients, you can recreate the original waveform by combining all the individual frequencies. However, the accuracy of the reconstruction depends on the number of coefficients used. The more coefficients included, the closer the reconstruction will be to the original waveform.

Are there any limitations to using Fourier coefficients in waveform analysis?

One limitation of using Fourier coefficients is that they assume the waveform is a periodic function, meaning it repeats itself infinitely. In reality, many waveforms are not strictly periodic, which can lead to inaccuracies in the analysis. Additionally, the precision of the coefficients is limited by the sampling rate and the length of the data being analyzed.

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