Difference between revisions of "Waveform"
Brad Johnson (talk | contribs) (Created page with "=Overview= The term "<nowiki>waveform</nowiki>" is used to describe the shape or "form" of a wave signal. The term "wave" is commonly used to describe a cyclical electromagnetic ...") |
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At the most basic level, a “sine” waveform represents a single frequency or “pure tone.” Most audio waveforms consist of multiple frequencies with varying phase relationships; which results in a very different shape than a sine wave. Using the technique of Fourier analysis; even complex waveforms can be broken-down into the constituent sine wave components. | At the most basic level, a “sine” waveform represents a single frequency or “pure tone.” Most audio waveforms consist of multiple frequencies with varying phase relationships; which results in a very different shape than a sine wave. Using the technique of Fourier analysis; even complex waveforms can be broken-down into the constituent sine wave components. | ||
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For more information on Fourier analysis; [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fourier_analysis click here]. | For more information on Fourier analysis; [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fourier_analysis click here]. | ||
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| + | Because the constituent sine waves of a complex waveform add or subtract from each other due their [[phase]] relationship; the shape of the waveform can vary over time; even if the amplitude and frequency of the constituent sine waves ''do not''. | ||
Revision as of 12:21, 15 August 2012
Overview
The term "waveform" is used to describe the shape or "form" of a wave signal. The term "wave" is commonly used to describe a cyclical electromagnetic signal or acoustic signal because of the similarity to "waves" in a body of water.
Basics
At the most basic level, a “sine” waveform represents a single frequency or “pure tone.” Most audio waveforms consist of multiple frequencies with varying phase relationships; which results in a very different shape than a sine wave. Using the technique of Fourier analysis; even complex waveforms can be broken-down into the constituent sine wave components.
For more information on Fourier analysis; click here.
Because the constituent sine waves of a complex waveform add or subtract from each other due their phase relationship; the shape of the waveform can vary over time; even if the amplitude and frequency of the constituent sine waves do not.