Viewing Square Wave on Computer Screen: Signal Reduction by 10 dB Explained

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In summary, the conversation discusses using a function generator to generate wave forms and view them on a computer screen. It mentions a square wave with an input signal of 1V and asks what it would look like if the signal was reduced by 10 dB. The concept of gain in decibels is introduced as a way to calculate the ratio of voltages needed to achieve a certain gain.
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Homework Statement


If you had a function generator that generated wave forms so you could veiw them on a computer screen and it was showing a square wave with and input signal of 1V (amplituded 0.5 V) What would it look like if the signal was reduced by 10 dB.


not sure what to do with this can someone help me get started
 
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2slowtogofast said:

Homework Statement


If you had a function generator that generated wave forms so you could veiw them on a computer screen and it was showing a square wave with and input signal of 1V (amplituded 0.5 V) What would it look like if the signal was reduced by 10 dB.


not sure what to do with this can someone help me get started

The gain (or attenuation) in dB for voltages and currents is given by the equation:

G(dB) = 20 log(V1/V2)

(for power gain, it's 10 log(P1/P2)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decibel

So put your gain ratio on the LHS of the voltage gain equation, and solve for the ratio of voltages that gives you that gain...
 

FAQ: Viewing Square Wave on Computer Screen: Signal Reduction by 10 dB Explained

What is a square wave?

A square wave is a type of electrical signal that alternates between two discrete voltage levels, typically a high and low state.

How is a square wave displayed on a computer screen?

A square wave can be displayed on a computer screen using software or a digital oscilloscope. The high and low voltage levels are represented by vertical lines on the screen.

Why is the signal reduced by 10 dB?

The signal is reduced by 10 dB in order to reduce the amplitude of the square wave, making it easier to view and analyze on the computer screen. This is a common practice in signal processing and helps to avoid distortion and other issues.

What does 10 dB reduction mean in terms of signal strength?

A 10 dB reduction means that the signal's strength has been decreased by a factor of 10. This is equivalent to reducing the amplitude of the signal by 1/10th.

How does the 10 dB reduction affect the viewing of the square wave?

The 10 dB reduction makes the square wave easier to view on the computer screen by reducing the amplitude of the signal. This allows for clearer and more accurate analysis of the waveform.

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