Frequency in an oscilloscope simulation

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the frequency from an oscilloscope simulation, focusing on the relationship between cycles and time. The original poster attempts to calculate frequency based on observed cycles in the simulation image.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster calculates frequency using the number of cycles observed in the simulation and the time duration, questioning where their reasoning may have gone wrong. Other participants clarify the time scale settings of the oscilloscope and the implications for measuring frequency.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided clarifications regarding the time scale and how it relates to the frequency calculation. The original poster acknowledges a misunderstanding and indicates they have arrived at a correct answer, although the discussion remains open to further exploration of the concepts involved.

Contextual Notes

The original poster confirmed two variables (0.6A and 6V) as correct, but the focus is primarily on the frequency calculation. There is a mention of the time scale setting being in terms of time per division, which is relevant to the calculations being discussed.

brekfast
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Every time I try to find frequency on this problem I get the same answer - and according to the simulation it is incorrect.

Here's a picture of the simulation.

Please note: I am just trying to find frequency. I know the other two variables (.6A and 6V ; these are confirmed correct)

[PLAIN]http://img854.imageshack.us/img854/100/screenshot20110724at104.png



Looking at this image, I see only 2 and 1/4 cycles.

Frequency is, essentially, cycles per second (1/s) and period is the time it takes to complete a single cycle.

Based on the image I attached, I see 2 and 1/4 cycles (9/4) over a time of .5e-6 s. This is the same as dividing (9/4) by (.5e-6).

(9/4) / (.5e-6) = 4.5e6 s^(-1)

I do not understand where my mistake is.
 
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The time scale setting for an oscillisope is usually in terms of time/division. 0.5e-6 s would correspond to the distance between vertical lines.
 
Last edited:
Derp! I knew that but I guess I had a brainfart.

Thanks! I got the correct answer (5e5 s^-1)
 
One period (minimum to minimum) is 4 units on the time scale. The oscilloscope shows the length of such units, it is 0.5 x 10-6 s.

ehild
 

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