How sinusoidal oscillators produce sinusoids?

In summary, a linear oscillator gives a sinusoidal output because it is a second order system with a gain slightly above 1 and a small amount of non-linearity to prevent the amplitude from increasing infinitely. This results in a natural response of a critically damped second order system to a step or impulse, which is a sinusoidal signal. This can be explained through the circuit's characteristic equation and poles. The standard sinusoidal oscillator, such as the Wein Bridge, follows this principle.
  • #1
sns
5
0
Why/How does a linear oscillator give >>>sinusoidal<<< output?

I am basically confused how the sinusoidal signal output generates from a random noise? Why sinusoidal and not something else?

Can this be explained from the characteristic equation/circuit poles?
 
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  • #3
sns said:
Why/How does a linear oscillator give >>>sinusoidal<<< output?

I am basically confused how the sinusoidal signal output generates from a random noise? Why sinusoidal and not something else?

Can this be explained from the characteristic equation/circuit poles?
An oscillator is a second order system, an amplifier with a gain fractionally over 1 and a tiny bit of non-linearity to drop the gain at the peaks to 0.999. The natural response of a critically damped second order system to a step or impulse is the sinusoid. With a loop gain of just over unity, it would be a sinusoid of ever-increasing amplitude, but tiny non-linearities are incorporated to level it out at an amplitude appropriate to the circuit parameters.
 

Related to How sinusoidal oscillators produce sinusoids?

1. How do sinusoidal oscillators produce sinusoids?

Sinusoidal oscillators produce sinusoids by utilizing a feedback circuit that generates a continuous oscillating signal. This signal is then amplified and fed back into the circuit, creating a self-sustaining loop that produces a sinusoidal output.

2. What is the purpose of a sinusoidal oscillator?

The purpose of a sinusoidal oscillator is to generate a continuous sinusoidal signal at a desired frequency. This is often used in electronic devices and systems for various applications such as communication, measurement, and control.

3. What components are involved in a sinusoidal oscillator circuit?

A sinusoidal oscillator circuit typically consists of a feedback circuit, an amplifier, and a frequency-selective element such as a capacitor or inductor. Additional components such as resistors and diodes may also be used for specific oscillator designs.

4. What factors affect the frequency of a sinusoidal oscillator?

The frequency of a sinusoidal oscillator is primarily determined by the values of the components in the feedback circuit. In addition, the oscillation frequency can also be affected by external factors such as temperature, power supply voltage, and component tolerances.

5. How does the damping factor affect the output of a sinusoidal oscillator?

The damping factor, also known as the quality factor, determines the sharpness of the output signal's frequency response. A higher damping factor results in a narrower frequency response and a more precise sinusoidal output, while a lower damping factor can lead to distortions and a less accurate output.

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