Transfer function of cascaded filters

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the transfer function, H(s), of cascaded filters using two methods: nodal analysis with Cramer's method and decomposition into simpler sections. Participants explore the implications of loading effects when connecting filters and the necessity of buffer amplifiers in such configurations.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a problem statement involving the calculation of H(s) using nodal analysis and decomposition, noting a discrepancy in the denominators of the transfer functions obtained.
  • Another participant points out that the transfer function H(s)1 will depend on the loading effect from the second filter when connected, which complicates the analysis.
  • A different participant emphasizes the need for a buffer amplifier between the two filters to treat them as independent transfer functions, highlighting the loading effect that occurs without such a buffer.
  • One participant discusses the relationship between input and output resistances in cascaded amplifiers, suggesting that the gain of the first stage will be affected by the loading from the second stage.
  • Another participant supports the previous points made about the loading effect and provides a brief explanation of Cramer's method as a technique for solving linear equations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether the filters can be treated as independent without a buffer amplifier. There is no consensus on the necessity of a buffer or the implications of loading effects on the transfer functions.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the complexity of analyzing cascaded filters, particularly regarding the assumptions made about loading effects and the conditions under which filters can be treated independently.

FrankJ777
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1. Problem statement
Find the transfer function , H(s) by two methods. Use Nodal analysis with Cramer's method, and decompose into simpler sections and use the property, H(s) = H1(s) * H2(s).

Homework Equations


H(s) = H1(s) * H2(s)
H(s) = Vout/Vin
Cramer's Rule. X = Dx/D : where D is the determinant and Dx is the determinate with the x column.[/B]

The Attempt at a Solution


I used nodal with Cramer's Method, and decomposed into to sections. The transfer functions were similar but the denominators differ by a term, and I don't know why.

First using nodal with Cramer's method. [/B]
s4p6wy.jpg

Then decomposing the filter into two filters, finding H(s)1,H(s)2, then H(s)=H(s)1xH(s)2.
2605xmf.jpg

Here are the two transfer functions. You can see that they differ by a single term in the denominator, GL/sL circled in red.
149tms9.jpg

I'm sure they should be the same, but I'm not sure where I'm going wrong. Can anyone point me in the right direction?
Thanks a lot.
 
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FrankJ777 said:
Then decomposing the filter into two filters, finding H(s)1,H(s)2, then H(s)=H(s)1xH(s)2.

Separated the two transfer functions, H(s)1 and H(s)2, are correct. But when you connect the filters, the input of (2) will load the output of (1).
Thus the transfer function H(s)1 will depend on L and RL.

( I don't know Cramers method. )
 
Last edited:
To treat it as two simple transfer functions and apply H = H1 x H2
there must exist a buffer amplifier between the two. Without that buffer stage, the signal output of filter 1 is determined not only by the CR elements in filter 1 but also by the elements in the second filter (the so-called 'loading' effect). This absence of a buffer stage means you cannot separate the network into independent blocks; it must be analysed as a whole.

The only way you may be able to justify analysing the network as a pair of independent filters is if you ensure the loading effect is minimal by setting the impedance of the L-R stage to be >> the impedance of the C-R stage. The result will still be an approximation, and this is rarely acceptable in any filter application.
 
http://www.learnabout-electronics.org/Amplifiers/images/Zin-Zout.gif

Lets look at two amplifiers, a1 and a2. they are connected in series, with the output of a1 going into a2.
each amplifier has a input resistance Rinx and an output resistance Routx

the gain of source 1 will be dependent upon the relationship between the output resistance of source 1, and the input resistance of source 2. the relationship is essentially a voltage divider.

Since our source is a perfect voltage source, it has zero output impedance, so the input gain will be 1.

the output of stage one will be
H1=a1*Rin2 /(Rin2+Rout1)

now knowing that, how would you proceed with your system?
 

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