Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the interpretation of voltage readings from a multimeter set to measure DC voltage in the context of an AC signal, specifically addressing the effects of bandwidth on the readings. The scope includes conceptual clarification regarding RMS and DC measurements, as well as the implications of bandwidth on voltage readings.
Discussion Character
- Conceptual clarification
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant proposes that the reading for a multimeter set to read DC voltage with a bandwidth of 10 kHz would be 0.2 mV, based on a calculation involving the ratio of bandwidths.
- Another participant emphasizes the need to carefully consider the definitions of "rms" and "dc" in the context of the question.
- Some participants argue that the voltage reading should not change, suggesting that RMS and DC values are equivalent under certain conditions.
- It is noted that RMS and DC are not the same when measuring a voltage that varies with time, particularly for AC signals, where a DC meter would measure an average value that could be zero for symmetrical waveforms.
- A participant suggests practical experimentation with a DC voltmeter connected to an AC signal generator to illustrate the differences in readings.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on whether the voltage reading should change when switching from an RMS measurement to a DC measurement, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved.
Contextual Notes
There are unresolved assumptions regarding the nature of the "noise" mentioned in the original question and its characteristics as an AC signal, as well as the implications of bandwidth on the measurement outcomes.