Discrete vs Continuous Time Impulse Signals

Thread starter reddvoid
Start date Apr 29, 2011
Tags

Continuous Discrete Impulse Signals Time

In summary, a discrete time impulse signal is only defined at specific points in time, while a continuous time impulse signal is defined at all points in time. Discrete time signals are represented as sequences of numbers, while continuous time signals are represented as functions of time. Examples of discrete time signals include digital audio signals, while continuous time signals can be seen in the movement of a pendulum. In signal processing, discrete time signals are easier to work with due to their finite values, while continuous time signals require more complex techniques. Discrete time signals can be converted into continuous time signals through interpolation, but this may result in loss of information and accuracy.

Apr 29, 2011

reddvoid

Whats the difference between a discrete time impulse and a continuous time impulse signal ?

Engineering news on Phys.org

Sep 28, 2011

jvclark2

DT: the function is zero for all points not equal to 0 and equals 1 at 0
CT: the function is zero for all points not equal to 0, equals infinity at 1, but the total area under the impulse is 1

1. What is the difference between a discrete and continuous time impulse signal?

A discrete time impulse signal is a signal that is only defined at specific points in time, while a continuous time impulse signal is defined at all points in time. This means that a discrete time impulse signal has a finite number of values, while a continuous time impulse signal has an infinite number of values.

2. How are discrete and continuous time impulse signals represented mathematically?

A discrete time impulse signal is represented as a sequence of numbers, while a continuous time impulse signal is represented as a function of time. In other words, a discrete time impulse signal is represented as a list of values, while a continuous time impulse signal is represented as a curve or line.

3. What are some real-world examples of discrete and continuous time impulse signals?

A discrete time impulse signal can be seen in the digital representation of audio signals, where the sound is broken down into individual samples at specific points in time. A continuous time impulse signal can be seen in the movement of a pendulum, where the position of the pendulum is continuously changing over time.

4. How do discrete and continuous time impulse signals affect signal processing?

Discrete time impulse signals are easier to work with in signal processing because they have a finite number of values, making them easier to manipulate and analyze. Continuous time impulse signals, on the other hand, require more complex mathematical techniques for processing due to their infinite number of values.

5. Can a discrete time impulse signal be converted into a continuous time impulse signal?

Yes, a discrete time impulse signal can be converted into a continuous time impulse signal through a process called interpolation. This involves estimating the values between the discrete points to create a continuous curve. However, this conversion can also result in loss of information and accuracy, so it should be done carefully and with consideration of the specific application.