Troubleshooting Log Formula for ILS DDM Calculation | Expert ATS Assistance

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around troubleshooting a formula used in an ILS (Instrument Landing System) for calculating DDM (Diversity Distance Measurement). Participants are exploring the mathematical aspects of the formula, particularly the use of logarithms and the implications of negative values in the context of the calculation.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a formula for DDM involving logarithms, but encounters a math error when using "log-1".
  • Another participant notes that logarithms are not defined for negative numbers, questioning the validity of the input.
  • Some participants clarify that "log-1" refers to the logarithm to the negative power of 1, suggesting it means the reciprocal of the logarithm.
  • Concerns are raised about the negative value in the formula, particularly the term (-3/20), and whether it is appropriate to use in logarithmic calculations.
  • One participant provides an example calculation using the formula, but expresses confusion about the implications of the negative values involved.
  • A participant suggests seeking further assistance from experts in the Electrical Engineering forum for more specialized help.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the interpretation of the logarithmic term or the handling of negative values in the formula. Multiple competing views remain regarding the correct approach to the calculations.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions about the assumptions underlying the use of negative values in logarithmic calculations and the specific definitions of terms used in the formula.

mcalves
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Hello

Im studying an ATS equipment known as an ILS. One of the formulas to determine the DDM is :

E2 = E1 log-1(db/20)




When I try entering log-1, the calculator displays Math Error. What am I doing wrong?

Thanks for the help in advance
 
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The logarithm is not defined for negative numbers.
 
Are you sure that "log-1" means log(-1)?? Look more closely at the formula.
 
Its log to the negative power of 1, I don't know how to format that below.


the funny thing is that there are examples in the book with the answer. For example:


Ec = 2.5log-1 (-3/20) = 1.77

Ecs = 1.0log-1(-3/20) = .707

Ess = 0.155log-1(-3/20) = 0.109
 
mcalves said:
Its log to the negative power of 1, I don't know how to format that below.

[tex]\log^{-1}x = \frac{1}{\log{x}}[/tex]

Click on the LaTeX to see the code.
 
Last edited:
thanks neutrino, but what about that (-3/20) that will give me a negative. Logs don't work that way right?
 
They don't. Are you sure db is negative?
 
its interesting you say that because the its starts out with a 3db then they change it to a -3. I'll type the whole thing below...


E2 = E1 log-1(db/20)

Where:
E2 = before attenuation
E1 = after attenuation

The upper attenna signals exiting Z6 at output 2 are attenuated by 3db. Letting "A" equal .31, the Ess signal in the upper antenna would be .5A or .155 prior to Z6. So the equation becomes:

E2 = .155log-1(-3/20) = .109

What the heck does that mean ^^
 
Sorry, I'm clueless. Maybe someone familiar with this topic (at the Electrical Engineering forum) will be able to answer your question.
 
  • #10
Thanks neutrino. I'll give it try. :)
 

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