Compute the Z-transform of a^{-n} and step function

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on computing the Z-transform of the function x[n] = (0.5)^{-n} * u[n-1] and determining its Region of Convergence (ROC). The Z-transform is defined as x(z) = ∑(n=1 to ∞) (0.5)^{-n} * z^{-n}, starting from n=1 due to the time shift. There is confusion regarding the application of the geometric series for simplification, as the series appears to diverge. Participants discuss whether this divergence implies that the Z-transform does not exist. The conversation emphasizes the need for clarification on handling the series and its convergence properties.
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Homework Statement


Compute the Z-transform of

x[n] = (0.5)^{-n} * u[n-1]

And find the ROC (Region of Convergence)

Homework Equations


Z-Transform for discrete time
x(z) = \sum_{n=0}^\infty x[n] * z^{-n}

The Attempt at a Solution



To solve this, I used the definition of Z-transform

x(z) = \sum_{n=1}^\infty (0.5)^{-n} * z^{-n}

Note that the summation starts from n = 1 due to the time shift to the right by 1.

Simplifying this, we get

x(z) = \sum_{n=1}^\infty (0.5z)^{-n}

Here's where I'm confused as hell. Apparently, we can't apply the geometric series to simplify this further since the expression is powered to the negative n.

Furthermore, what's contradicting about this problem is that the series diverges. Does this indicate that the z-transform does not exist at all?

Any help will be appriciated.
 
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Try a little rewrite:

x(z) = \sum_{n=1}^\infty (0.5^{-1}z^{-1})^{n} or

x(z) = \sum_{n=1}^\infty (2z^{-1})^{n} Now use your geometric series...
 
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