How Do You Calculate the Magnitude of a Power Spectral Density Function?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the magnitude of a power spectral density (PSD) function, specifically in the context of a given signal represented by a piecewise function. Participants explore the Fourier transform of the signal and the implications for determining the PSD.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents their attempt at finding the PSD, expressing uncertainty about the correctness of their Fourier transform and how to calculate the magnitude of the resulting function.
  • Another participant suggests that the PSD should consist of delta functions at odd harmonics of the fundamental frequency, indicating a method to compute their heights.
  • A hint is provided regarding the autocorrelation function, suggesting it can be visualized graphically by shifting the square wave against itself.
  • A later reply confirms that the initial participant was able to resolve their question, providing a formula for the PSD and a method for extracting a single period from the original function.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the initial approach to calculating the magnitude of the PSD, as one participant expresses uncertainty while others provide guidance. However, the later confirmation of a successful resolution indicates some agreement on the method to compute the PSD.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes various assumptions about the properties of the signal and the Fourier transform, as well as the specific definitions of terms like "magnitude" and "power spectral density." There are unresolved aspects regarding the initial calculations and the interpretation of the Fourier transform results.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students or practitioners in electrical engineering or signal processing who are learning about power spectral density and Fourier analysis.

perplexabot
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Homework Statement


question.png

For now I am trying to find the power spectral density only.

The Attempt at a Solution


  • From the given graph, I got g(t) = -1 + 2rect(t/2), with a perdiod of 4s
  • PSD = Sg(f) = lim(T \rightarrow\infty ) \frac{1}{2T} || G(f) || ^{2}
  • My Fourier transform of g(t), G(f), I got to = - \delta (f) + 4sinc(2f)
where " \delta (f)" is the unit impulse function.
I want to continue but I am not sure this is correct? If it is correct, I need to get the magnitude and square it. I don't know why I am not too comfortable with magnitude. So in this case i have || - \delta (f) + 4sinc(2f) || which I know ≠ ||- \delta (f) || + || 4sinc(2f) ||. So what do I do? How do I find magnitude?

EDIT: Can this post be moved to the electrical engineering section? I feel it is more likely to get a reply there.
 
Last edited:
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You know from Fourier series that the psd must be a sequence of delta functions situated at odd harmonics of the fundamental frequency (0.25 Hz). Compute the height of the delta functions as you were taught.

You can see by inspection what the dc component is and also the average power.

For the autocorrelation function I will give you a hint: it's a triangular function in tau space. You can obtain this function graphically if you shift the square wave against itself and compute the product for each shift position.
 
You're already in the proper forum (engineering etc.).
 
rude man said:
You know from Fourier series that the psd must be a sequence of delta functions situated at odd harmonics of the fundamental frequency (0.25 Hz). Compute the height of the delta functions as you were taught.

You can see by inspection what the dc component is and also the average power.

For the autocorrelation function I will give you a hint: it's a triangular function in tau space. You can obtain this function graphically if you shift the square wave against itself and compute the product for each shift position.

Thank you for your help. I was able to do it. For anyone that wants to know how, here is what you have to use:

PSD = ∑ |Cn|^{2} δ(f-nf_{0})
Cn =(1/T_{0}) G(f)|^{for f = nf_{0}}
Extract a single period from g(t) to get a new g(t) = -rect(t/4) + 2rect(t/2)

Then solve for PSD .
 
Last edited:

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