Applying a gain of dB to a signal (function) help?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around applying a gain in decibels (dB) to a signal, specifically addressing the calculations related to energy ratios and the confusion arising from differing gain values mentioned in a homework problem. Participants explore the implications of these calculations in the context of signal processing.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express confusion regarding the relationship between energy and gain in dB, particularly when calculating the new energy value after applying a gain of 4 dB.
  • One participant calculates the energy ratio and finds that a gain of 4 dB results in a lower energy value (E2 = 1.19), questioning whether this is correct.
  • Another participant suggests that the confusion may stem from mislabeling E1 and E2, proposing that reversing these values could yield a different energy result (E2 = 7.51).
  • Participants discuss the need to find a constant factor to multiply the signal by, with one suggesting it could be represented as A*x(t).
  • Clarifications arise regarding a discrepancy between 4 dB and 5 dB gains mentioned in the problem, with one participant noting that an instructor confirmed it was a typo and the correct gain is 5 dB.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the discrepancy between the 4 dB and 5 dB gains is a typo, but there remains uncertainty about the correct application of these gains in their calculations. The discussion includes multiple viewpoints on how to interpret the energy values and the constant factor needed for the signal.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the calculations depend on the correct identification of E1 and E2, and there are unresolved questions about the implications of the gain values on the energy calculations.

asdf12312
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Homework Statement


image.png

Homework Equations


The ratio of the parameters \frac{E_1}{E_2} to find the gain (in dB), 10\timeslog10\frac{E_1}{E_2}.

"To determine the gain factor in part 8, first think about what happens to the energy when you multiply the signal by a constant factor. Then use the logarithmic formula above to solve for the gain factor."

The Attempt at a Solution


Since energy is square of integral of a f(x), I am thinking if f(x) is multiplied by constant factor then energy will be square of that factor greater. I already have E1 of the problem, which is the energy of f(x) above = 2.99. I am confused I think because problem says 5dB then 4dB. anyway..if I assume gain of energy is equal to 4dB i have:

4dB = 10\timeslog10\frac{E_1}{E_2}
0.4 = log10\frac{E_1}{E_2}
\frac{E_1}{E_2} = 2.512 → E2 = \frac{2.99}{2.512} = 1.19

but why is the energy less than the original though? am i doing this right so far??
 
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asdf12312 said:

Homework Statement


image.png



Homework Equations


The ratio of the parameters \frac{E_1}{E_2} to find the gain (in dB), 10\timeslog10\frac{E_1}{E_2}.

"To determine the gain factor in part 8, first think about what happens to the energy when you multiply the signal by a constant factor. Then use the logarithmic formula above to solve for the gain factor."


The Attempt at a Solution


Since energy is square of integral of a f(x), I am thinking if f(x) is multiplied by constant factor then energy will be square of that factor greater. I already have E1 of the problem, which is the energy of f(x) above = 2.99. I am confused I think because problem says 5dB then 4dB. anyway..if I assume gain of energy is equal to 4dB i have:

4dB = 10\timeslog10\frac{E_1}{E_2}
0.4 = log10\frac{E_1}{E_2}
\frac{E_1}{E_2} = 2.512 → E2 = \frac{2.99}{2.512} = 1.19

but why is the energy less than the original though? am i doing this right so far??

Why do you say it is less? The ratio of 2.512 is correct.
 
I got confused cause the new energy is less then the one I calculated (2.99). So a gain of 4dB in the energy results in E2=1.19. How would I find the constant factor that I need to multiply the signal by? I am guessing it is something like A*x(t) and I have to find A that results in this new energy value.
 
asdf12312 said:
I got confused cause the new energy is less then the one I calculated (2.99). So a gain of 4dB in the energy results in E2=1.19. How would I find the constant factor that I need to multiply the signal by? I am guessing it is something like A*x(t) and I have to find A that results in this new energy value.
I don't understand the 4dB vs. 5 dB discrepancy, either. Must be a typo.

4dB = 10\timeslog10\frac{E_1}{E_2}
You are confusing ##E_1## and ##E_2##. :frown: Once you sort that out you'll be right.
 
OK that's what I thought. So they would be reversed, right? In that case I get E2=7.51. So then A2=2.74. The ratio \frac{A_2}{A_1} = 1.585. So this would be the constant factor I multiply x(t) by. Is this right?
 
That looks right. Just √(7.51/2.99)
 
"The text for part 8 refers to both a 5 dB and a 4 dB gain. This is a typo. The gain to be applied is 5 dB. This has been corrected in the PDF.."

Our instructor just send out that message lol. so I guess it was a typo..
 
asdf12312 said:
"The text for part 8 refers to both a 5 dB and a 4 dB gain. This is a typo. The gain to be applied is 5 dB. This has been corrected in the PDF.."

Our instructor just send out that message lol. so I guess it was a typo..
That gives you the opportunity to redo the problem, this time using 5dB. :smile:
 

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