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2: Continuous-Time Linear Systems

  • Page ID
    126948
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    Course Overview

    This course introduces students to continuous-time signal analysis and linear systems. Topics include classification of signals and systems, basic signal manipulation, system properties, time domain analysis of continuous-time linear time-invariant (LTI) systems, Laplace transform and its use in LTI system analysis, transfer functions and feedback, frequency response and analog filters, Fourier series representation and properties, continuous-time Fourier transform, spectral analysis and AM modulation, and simulation. Students learn to use signal analysis tools.

    Course Learning Objectives

    The objectives are to analyze existing continuous-time linear systems and to modify or design new ones to satisfy specific requirements. By the end of this course, students should be able to:

    1. Classify signals and systems based upon their properties and, in particular, understand the implications when a system is linear, time-invariant, stable, and causal.
    2. Graph mathematical descriptions of continuous-time signals and write mathematical descriptions for graphed functions.
    3. Develop an accurate mathematical description for a physical linear system, realize a mathematical description in a block diagram, and analyze a block diagram realization to determine the mathematical description.
    4. Represent an LTI system as an impulse response and find the response of that system to an arbitrary input using convolution.
    5. Compute the Fourier series components for periodic signals and sketch their amplitude and phase spectra.
    6. Recognize the various properties of transforms (e.g., symmetry, duality, time shift, frequency shift) and apply them appropriately to find transforms.
    7. Use the spectrum of an input signal and the frequency response of a system to determine the spectrum of the output signal.
    8. Use Laplace transforms to determine continuous-time system transfer functions; solve for a response given the input, system description, and initial conditions; and answer questions related to system stability.
    9. Compute and use the continuous-time FT to analyze system performance.
    10. Understand the relationships among the ordinary differential equation, impulse response, frequency response, and transfer function descriptions of a system.
    11. Use computer tools, such as MATLAB, to simulate and verify analytically obtained solutions, and to analyze continuous-time signals and systems.


    2: Continuous-Time Linear Systems is shared under a CC BY-NC 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by LibreTexts.

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