Introduction to Signals
Signals are functions that convey information. They can be analog or digital.
Signals are used in various fields like communications, control systems, and
signal processing.
Even and Odd Signals
An even signal is symmetric about the y-axis, meaning x(t) = x(-t). An odd signal is anti-symmetric, meaning x(t) = -x(-t).
Even Signal Odd Signal
Example: cos(t) Example: sin(t)
Periodic and Non-Periodic Signals
A periodic signal repeats itself over time. A non-periodic signal does not repeat.
Periodic Signal
Example: sin(t)
1 2
Non-Periodic Signal
Example: t
Energy and Power Signals
An energy signal has finite energy over all time. A power signal has finite power
over all time. Most signals are neither energy nor power signals.
Energy Signal
Example: rectangular pulse
Power Signal
Example: sinusoidal signal
Causal, Anti-Causal, and Non-
Causal Signals
A causal signal is zero for t < 0. An anti-causal signal is zero for t > 0. A non-causal
signal is non-zero for both t < 0 and t > 0.
Causal
1 Example: step function
Anti-Causal
2 Example: reversed step function
Non-Causal
3 Example: sinusoidal signal
Continuous-Time Signals
A continuous-time signal is defined for all values of time. The signal can be represented as a function of a continuous variable,
typically denoted as 't'.
Examples Description
Sinusoidal signal Periodic, continuous-time signal with a smooth, wave-like
shape.
Exponential signal Represents growth or decay over time.
Rectangular pulse Has a constant value for a specific duration and is zero
elsewhere.
Discrete-Time Signals
A discrete-time signal is defined only at specific points in time. The signal is
represented as a sequence of values, typically denoted as 'n'.
1 Discrete-Time Sine Wave
The signal is sampled at regular intervals, creating a sequence of values
that represent the sine wave.
2 Digital Audio Signal
Represents sound as a series of discrete values sampled at a specific
frequency.
3 Digital Image
The image is represented as a two-dimensional array of discrete values,
with each value representing the brightness or color of a pixel.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Signals are fundamental to many fields. Understanding signal types and
properties is crucial for effectively analyzing and manipulating signals.
Signal Visualization
Graphs and diagrams play a vital role in understanding signal behavior.
Mathematical Representation
Signals can be expressed using mathematical functions and equations.
Digital Signal Processing
Computers are essential for processing and analyzing signals, particularly in
digital systems.
