Research of Signal Conditioning.

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❖ What is signal conditioning?

Signal conditioning is the process of modifying signals from various


sources to make them suitable for electronic devices to process. It
involves using electronic circuits to convert and adjust the input signal
to meet the requirements of the device being used.
Designing a circuit for each type of signal conditioning requires a deep
understanding of the specific requirements and standards for each
application. It's important to note that designing custom circuits
requires advanced knowledge in the field of electrical and electronic
engineering. Here are simplified examples for each type of signal
conditioning:

1. Amplification signal conditioning:


Amplification signal conditioning is a process that involves increasing the amplitude
or gain of a signal to a desired level. It is commonly used to boost weak signals,
improve signal-to-noise ratio, or match signal levels for compatibility with other
devices or systems. Amplification can be achieved using various electronic
components and techniques.

Here are some examples of


amplification signal conditioning:
1) Audio Amplification:
In audio systems, weak electrical signals
from sources such as microphones or
musical instruments need to be amplified to Figure 1 Amplification signal
drive speakers or headphones. Audio
amplifiers increase the signal level while maintaining the fidelity of the original audio.
Examples include preamplifiers, power amplifiers, and headphone amplifiers.
2) Radio Frequency (RF) Amplification:
RF amplification is crucial in wireless communication systems and radio frequency devices.
RF amplifiers boost weak radio signals to increase transmission range and improve signal
quality. Examples include amplifiers used in cellular base stations, satellite communication
systems, and radio transmitters.

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2. Attenuation signal conditioning:

Attenuation signal conditioning refers to the process of reducing the amplitude or


strength of a signal while preserving its integrity. It is commonly used to decrease
signal levels, suppress unwanted noise or interference, prevent saturation or
distortion, and ensure compatibility with downstream devices or systems.
Attenuation can be achieved using various electronic components and techniques.

Figure 2 Attenuation signal

Here are some examples of attenuation signal conditioning:


1) Voltage Divider:
A voltage divider circuit is a common method of attenuating a signal. It consists of resistors
connected in series, with the output taken from the junction between them. By selecting
appropriate resistor values, the output voltage can be reduced relative to the input voltage.
Voltage dividers are used in various applications, such as adjusting signal levels for analog-
to-digital converters (ADCs) or setting reference voltages in electronic circuits.

2) Optical Attenuators:
In optical communication systems, optical attenuators are used to reduce the power level of
optical signals. These devices employ techniques like absorption, scattering, or interference
to decrease the signal strength while maintaining signal quality. Optical attenuators are
crucial for adjusting signal levels in fiber optic networks, ensuring proper signal reception
and preventing signal overload.

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3. Filtering signal conditioning:

Filtering signal conditioning is the process of modifying a signal by selectively


allowing certain frequencies to pass through while attenuating or blocking others. It
is commonly used to remove unwanted noise, interference, or distortions from a
signal, resulting in a cleaner and more reliable output. Filtering can be achieved using
various types of filters, such as low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, or notch filters.

Figure 3 Filtering signal

Here are some examples of filtering signal conditioning:


1. Low-Pass Filter:
A low-pass filter allows frequencies below a certain cutoff frequency to pass through while
attenuating higher frequencies. It is commonly used to remove high-frequency noise or
unwanted signals from a signal of interest. For example, in audio systems, a low-pass filter
can be used to eliminate high-frequency hiss or unwanted harmonics from a music signal,
resulting in a smoother sound.
2. High-Pass Filter:
A high-pass filter allows frequencies above a certain cutoff frequency to pass through while
attenuating lower frequencies. It is commonly used to remove low-frequency noise or
unwanted components from a signal. For instance, in a communication system, a high-pass
filter can be employed to eliminate low-frequency interference or DC offsets, ensuring that
only the desired signal is transmitted or received.
3. Band-Pass Filter:
A band-pass filter allows a specific range of frequencies, known as the passband, to pass
through while attenuating frequencies outside this range. It is useful for isolating a specific
frequency band of interest. Band-pass filters find application in various fields, such as
wireless communication systems, where they help select and extract signals within a specific
frequency range while rejecting unwanted frequencies.

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4. Filtering signal conditioning:

Excitation signal conditioning is the process of providing a suitable stimulus or


excitation to a system or sensor to elicit a measurable response. It involves
generating or modifying the excitation signal to meet the specific requirements of
the system or sensor under consideration. Excitation signal conditioning is
commonly used in various applications, such as sensor calibration, testing, and
measurement.

Figure 4 Excitation signal

Here are some examples of excitation signal conditioning:


1) Sensor Excitation:
Many sensors require a specific excitation signal to operate accurately and provide
reliable measurements. For instance, strain gauges used in structural monitoring require a
stable and controlled excitation voltage to accurately measure strain. Similarly,
thermocouples require a controlled temperature difference (excitation) across their
junctions to generate an electrical output proportional to temperature. Excitation signal
conditioning ensures the appropriate excitation is provided to the sensor for accurate and
consistent measurements.
2) Signal Generator:
Excitation signal conditioning can involve the use of signal generators to generate specific
waveforms, frequencies, or amplitudes. Signal generators produce electrical signals that
serve as the excitation for various testing and measurement purposes. They are commonly
used in electronic circuit testing, communication system analysis, and research and
development activities. Signal generators provide precise control over the excitation signals,
enabling comprehensive characterization and evaluation of systems or devices.

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