BeginnerTopic 14 of 101Signals, Control & Comms

Fourier series of signals

Periodic signals expressed as harmonics of the fundamental.

In depth

A periodic signal is a sum of harmonics: x(t)=Σc_n e^{jnω₀t}, c_n=(1/T)∫x e^{-jnω₀t}dt. Square wave has odd harmonics decaying as 1/n; triangle as 1/n². Dirichlet conditions guarantee convergence; Gibbs phenomenon at jumps.

Key points

  • Trigonometric, exponential forms
  • Harmonic distortion
  • Power in harmonics
Example

Ripple in a rectified waveform is analysed through its Fourier series.

Why it matters

Fourier series separates a periodic signal into harmonics, so it reveals what frequencies are present and how a filter or system will change them.

Where this is used

  • Finding the harmonic content of a rectifier output.
  • Designing a filter to remove the third harmonic from a motor drive.
  • Analysing the vibration of a rotating machine by harmonic order.

Frequently asked questions

What is Fourier series of signals?

Periodic signals expressed as harmonics of the fundamental.

Why is it important to understand fourier series of signals?

Fourier series separates a periodic signal into harmonics, so it reveals what frequencies are present and how a filter or system will change them.

What is the fundamental frequency?

The lowest frequency in a periodic signal, and all harmonics are integer multiples of it.

What do the coefficients tell you?

Each coefficient gives the amplitude and phase of one harmonic, so the coefficients describe the whole spectrum.

How is Fourier series of signals used in practice?

Typical applications include finding the harmonic content of a rectifier output, designing a filter to remove the third harmonic from a motor drive and analysing the vibration of a rotating machine by harmonic order.

What should I learn before Fourier series of signals?

Study "Differential equation models" first (topic 13 of 101 in Signals, Control & Comms). It covers the groundwork this topic builds on.

What are the key points of Fourier series of signals?

Trigonometric, exponential forms. Harmonic distortion. Power in harmonics.

Can you give an example of Fourier series of signals?

Ripple in a rectified waveform is analysed through its Fourier series.

What comes after Fourier series of signals?

The next topic is "Fourier transform properties", which builds directly on this one.

How difficult is Fourier series of signals?

It is classed as Beginner in Signals, Control & Comms (topic 14 of 101). It is an entry-level topic. It relies only on basic school mathematics and the ideas introduced earlier in this discipline.

Learning path

Want to practise? Open the interactive course for quick checks, quizzes, simulations and progress tracking.

Related topics