Frequency response of a transfer function

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around obtaining the frequency response of a transfer function, specifically focusing on methods to achieve this without necessarily performing an inverse Laplace transform followed by a Fourier transform. The conversation includes technical aspects related to transfer functions in the context of signal processing and control systems.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Exploratory
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the process for determining the frequency response of a transfer function and suggests looking for a simpler method than performing both inverse Laplace and Fourier transforms.
  • Another participant asks for clarification on the variable in which the transfer function is specified, specifically whether it is in terms of z or s.
  • A participant confirms that the transfer function is in terms of s and discusses plotting the real and imaginary parts versus frequency, or alternatively, the magnitude and phase as functions of frequency.
  • Several participants share humorous commentary about the original poster's previous thread on transfer functions, noting the tendency of search engines to highlight their own threads.
  • One participant expresses their confusion regarding Laplace transforms and transfer functions, indicating that their previous coursework focused solely on Fourier transforms for frequency analysis. They seek to understand the theory behind frequency response as they prepare for a class that requires this knowledge.
  • A later reply suggests that to obtain the frequency response from the transfer function, one can substitute jω for s, assuming the frequency response exists, and notes that this is akin to the Fourier transform of the original time-domain signal.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion contains multiple viewpoints on how to approach the frequency response of a transfer function, with no clear consensus on the best method. Participants express varying levels of familiarity with the concepts involved, indicating a mix of agreement on some technical points while also highlighting differing educational backgrounds and experiences.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty regarding the application of Laplace transforms in their studies, indicating a potential gap in foundational knowledge that may affect their understanding of the topic. Additionally, the discussion reflects a reliance on specific definitions and contexts that may not be universally applicable.

swraman
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If I have a transfer function, and I need the frequency response of it, how do I go about doing it?

Is there a easier way than inverse Laplace transforming it, then Fourier transforming that?

Thanks
 
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In what variable is your transfer function specified? z? s?

- Warren
 
it is in terms of s.
 
swraman said:
it is in terms of s.

And what does s expand out to? An expression involving ...

If you have the transfer function in terms of s, you will just plot the real an imaginary parts of it versus frequency... (or the magnitude and phase as a function of frequency, like you get on an impedance analyzer).
 
MATLABdude said:
Might want to take a look at this thread, on transfer functions:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=312140

EDIT: Wait, that's your thread! Never mind then...

LOL. I know, most of the time I go to google to search for related info for a PF question, the dang OP is at the top of the search list! Google is no dummy -- their spiders are all over us.
 
berkeman said:
LOL. I know, most of the time I go to google to search for related info for a PF question, the dang OP is at the top of the search list! Google is no dummy -- their spiders are all over us.

They are, except that this is the OP's thread from yesterday (or day before last, or... dammit, 24+ hours ago). I recalled writing something about transfer functions and Laplace to Fourier transforms. I then realized that this was the same poster! Must not've done a terribly good job...
 
MATLABdude said:
They are, except that this is the OP's thread from yesterday (or day before last, or... dammit, 24+ hours ago). I recalled writing something about transfer functions and Laplace to Fourier transforms. I then realized that this was the same poster! Must not've done a terribly good job...

Ah, got it. No, that other thread looks to contain great help. It's different enough that I won't merge the two threads yet. May even highlight that other thread...
 
MATLABdude said:
They are, except that this is the OP's thread from yesterday (or day before last, or... dammit, 24+ hours ago). I recalled writing something about transfer functions and Laplace to Fourier transforms. I then realized that this was the same poster! Must not've done a terribly good job...

MATLABdude you did a good job clearing up what a transfer function is, etc. in that thread. I don't know why, but in my introductory signals class we didnt cover Leplace transforms or Transfer functions, we only did Fourier transforms for frequency analysis. So I was/am fuzzy about Leplace transforms (im still to take controls classes and advanced signal analysis). Unfortunatley I am now takinga class that requires that, and I want to try to at least partially understand it so the class I am in now won't be useless.
Thanks :)

Anyway, s = i \omega.
I was suposed to plot the frequency response of the transfer function, which was easily done in MATLAB, but I want to know the theory behind it.

Thanks again
 
Last edited:
  • #10
In order to get the Frequency response from the transfer function, you just need to plus in jω for all s. Assuming it exists, this will be your frequency response, aka the Fourier transform of your original signal in the time domain.I know this is an old forum... but I figure this may help anyone looking at this in the future.
 

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