What is Signal ?

Last Updated : 21 May, 2024





Signals shows a phenomenon in the form of function of variables. In

this article, we will be going through Signals. We will start with the
Definition of Signals, and then we will go through different types of
signals and parameters. Also, we will go through what is digital
signal processing and then go through signals and notation where
we will go through Basic, Functional, periodic and Geometric Signals.
At last, we will conclude our article with some of its Applications and
FAQs.
Table of Content
 What are Signals?
 Types of Signals
 Signal Parameters
 Digital Signal Processing
 Signals and Notation
 Basic Signals
 Periodic Signals
 Functional signals
 Geometric signals
 Applications of Signals
 Analog Vs Digital Signal
What is Signal?
A signal is a function of one or more variables that indicate some
(usually physical) phenomenon. Signal serves as carriers of
information between communication devices. They can convey
different types of information depending on the application required.
These signals can be of different forms.
Examples of Signals
 Human voice and sound waves.
 Voltage in electrical circuits
 Room temperature controlled by a thermostat system
 Position, speed, and acceleration of an aircraft
 Accelerometers measured with accelerometers in mobile phones
 Force measured with force sensors in robotic systems
 Electromagnetic waves used to transmit information in wireless
computer networks
 Digital photographs
 Digital Music Recording.
Types of Signals
There are different types of signals which are given below:
 Analog Signals
 Digital Signals
 Real and Complex Signals
 Deterministic and Random Signals
 Periodic and Non-periodic Signals
1. Analog Signals
These signals are continuing (e.g., a real variable) and infinitely
varying with time parameter or can take any value within a given
range. These signals are represented by the sine wave. Examples of
analog signals are audio signals, temperature readings, sound
waves or television waves.

Analog Signal Graph

2. Digital Signals
A signal that is a function of discrete variables (e.g., an integer
variable) is said to be discrete time and this are represent in binary
form (0s and 1s). More robust against noise. Commonly used in
computer systems and telecommunications.

Digital Signal Graph

3. Real and Complex Signals
If the value of the signal x(t) is a real number, the signal x(t) is also
a real signal; If the value of the signal x(t) is a complex number, the
signal x(t) is complex. signal. In general, the complex signal x(t) is a
function of the form
x(t)= x1(t) + jx2(t)
where x1(t) and x2(t) are real symbols, j = V - 1.
The above equation represents a constant variable or the difference
between the two.
4. Deterministic and Random Signals
A deterministic signal is one whose value is always specified exactly.
Therefore, the decision signal can be modeled by knowing time t. A
random signal is one that takes a significant amount of time and
needs to be characterized.
Deterministic and Random Signal Graph

5. Periodic and Non-Periodic Signals

A continuous signal is a signal of infinite duration that repeats the
same pattern over and over again is called periodic signal. One-
sided or time-limited signals can never be periodic. Any continuous-
time signal which is not periodic signal is known as non-periodic
(or aperiodic) signal.
Periodic Signal Graph
Aperiodic signal Graph
Signal Parameters
Some of the signal parameters are:
 Amplitude
 Frequency
 Phase
 Wavelength
Signal Parameter Graph
Digital Signal Processing
Analog signals have been the subject of many studies in the past. In
recent years, digital signals have begun to attract more and more
attention. As for numbers, they can be processed by the same logic
circuits used in digital computers.
Below figure shows two good ideas for signal processing. Digital
signal processing of analog signals requires that we use an analog
to digital converter (ADC) to sample the analog signal before
processing and a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) to convert the
processed digital signal back to Analog form.
Analog to Digital
Few technologies change the world as much as those that act as
digital barriers. For example, until recently, music recording
technology was comparable throughout, and music's most important
product was used to make LP (long-play) records. Digital discs
replaced all of this in just a few years, making long playing records
almost obsolete. Analog and digital signals are the subject of this
and many other applications.
Signals and Notation
Different signals and its notation are given below:
 Basic Signals
 Periodic Signals
 Functional signals
 Geometric signals
Basic Signals
The basic signals are:
 Unit Step
 Unit Impulse Signals
 Unit Ramp signal
 Unit parabolic signal
Unit Step
The continuous time function u(t) is defined as a positive function
for its discrete time counterpart, the unit step is discontinuous at
t=0.

Unit Step
Unit Impulse Signals
The continuous-time unit impulse function 8(t) is related to the unit
step in a manner analogous to the relationship between the
discrete-time unit impulse and step functions. Specifically, the
continuous-time unit step function is obtained by performing the
running integral of the unit impulse function.
We can think of a pulse as a long, narrow pulse for a region, as
shown in Figure. The width of the rectangular pulse is as small as ε
→ 0. Therefore, its height 1/ε → ∞ is a very large value. The impact
chamber can therefore be thought of as a rectangular pulse whose
width will be infinitely small, its height will be infinitely large, and all
areas are still together. Therefore, only when t= 0 is δ(t) = 0
undefined. Therefore, the unit blow is represented by the symbol
spear.
Unit Impulse Signals
Unit Ramp Signal
This signal is defined as it starts from t=0 and always increasingly
Linearly.
The function r(t) means that the signal will start at time zero and
immediately assume a slope, and depending on the given time
characteristics (e.g. positive or negative good, good), the signal will
follow a straight and curved path. Right or left, here it is on the
right.
Unit Ramp Signal
Therefore, the ramp function r(t) is a critical function that exists only
on the positive side and is zero on the negative side. And can be
expressed in the form of an equation as shown below.
Unit Parabolic Signal
The amplitude increases with the square of time.
Unit Parabolic Signal
Periodic Signals
Periodic signal includes:
 Sinusoidal Signals
Sinusoidal Signals
A continuous time sine wave signal can be displayed
x(t) = A cos (ωt + θ)
where
 A is the amplitude (real)
 ω is the radian frequency in radians per second
 θ is the phase angle in radians.
Sinusoidal Signals
Functional Signals
Functional signals include:
 Sinc Function
 Signum Function
 Continuous-Time Complex Exponential
Sinc Function
Since time oscillates sinusoidally and the ideal 1/t decreases with
time, sinc(t) exhibits decreasing oscillations. At t = 0 the sinc
function takes the indefinite form 0/0. These signal plays a very
important role in Fourier analysis, communication systems, and
signal processing.
Sinc Functions
Signum Function
Another function that is closely related to the unit step function is
the named function. The sign represented by the symbol function is
defined as follows:
Signum Function
Continuous-Time Complex Exponential
Real exponential signals: c and a are real. Where C and a are, in
general, complex numbers
Continuous-Time Complex Exponential Graph
If a Is positive, x(t) grows exponentially as t increases, and this form
is used to describe many different physical processes, including
communication in atomic explosions and complex chemistry
Reaction.
If either a is negative, then x(t) is a decay exponent; This signal is
also used to describe many phenomena, including the radio decay
process and the response systems of RC circuits and damped
machines.
General Complex Exponential Signals
 Therefore, when r = 0 the real and imaginary parts of the
complex exponential are sinusoids.
 r > 0 they correspond to the sinusoidal signal multiplied by the
growth exponent, and for
 r < 0 they correspond to the sinusoidal signal multiplied by the
decay exponent.
General Complex Exponential Signals Graph
Geometric signals
Geometric signals include:
 Rectangular signal and Triangular signal
Rectangular Signal and Triangular Signal
The rectangular pulse rect(t) and triangular pulse tri(t) are defined
as Both are properly symmetrical and have unit area and unit
height.
Rectangular and Triangular Signal
Applications of Signals in Electrical Circuits
Applications of Signals in Electrical Circuits are given below:
Communication Systems
 Signals are serving as data in communication systems.
 In Telephone and wireless communication is based on the signal
Transmission.
Audio Systems
 Analog signals are present during the audio system and represent
changes in audio parameters.
 The signal is still used in audio dispensation and storage today.
Signal Processing
 Filtering and processing are the most important for some
applications like audio and video processing.
 Adjustment and Judgment techniques are used to control the
signals.
Radar and Sonar Systems
 Radar and sonar systems use signals to sense and locate objects.
 When the output object is interrupted or intermittent by any other
object after that the return signal is analyzed to obtain
information.
Medical Imaging
 To detect the human body so many new medical imaging
technologies (such as MRI and CT scans) use the signals
 Signals are in the form of electromagnetic waves. So, they are
manipulated to produce diagnostic images
Comparison between Analog and Digital
Signal
Below table represents the difference between analog and digital
signal.
Features Analog Signal Digital Signal

It has Continuous waveforms This is discrete and finite

Representation
and infinite number of values. values.

Voltage, current and sound

Representation medium In Binary digits
waves.

Waveform Smooth and continuous curve Stepwise changes

Sensitive to noise and Less Sensitive to noise and

Accuracy
interface. interface.

Easy processing and

Processing Complex processing
flexible.

Bandwidth consumption is Bandwidth consumption is

Bandwidth
variable. fixed.

This are compatible with This are compatible with

traditional devices such as modern devices such as
Device Compatibility
analog cameras, analog audio computers, smartphones
systems etc. etc.

Power consumption Use more power. Use less Power.

Temperature, flow
Example Motor start, trip etc.
measurement etc.
Conclusion
In the circuit, signals follow the script that controls the operation of
electronic devices. Whether analog signals or digital signals,
periodic or aperiodic signals, deterministic and random signals, we
can say that the signals are information systems for communication,
control and processing. As technology advances, understanding and
controlling signals becomes important. From simple sine to digital
model, signals still form the basis of innovation in electrical
engineering.
Signals - FAQs
What role do signals play in communication?
Signals are act as messengers in communication. They smooth the
progress of data transfer in telephone and wireless communications.

How are audio signals used?

In audio systems, analog signals represent changes in sound
parameters, while digital signals ar e used in daily

What are the major classifications of the signal?

The major classifications of signals are: (i) Discrete time signal (ii)
Continuous time signal

What are the types of Fourier series?

Different Types of Fourier Series are
 Exponential Fourier series
 Trigonometric Fourier series

Learn in a distraction-free environment with refined, high-quality

content and 35+ expert-led tech courses to help you crack any
interview. From programming languages and DSA to web
development and data science, GeeksforGeeks Premium has you
covered!

Choose GeeksforGeeks Premium today and also get access

to Unlimited Article Summarization, 100% Ad free
environment, A.I. Bot support in all coding problems, and much
more. Go Premium!

anamikapaesdz
Follow

16
Next Article
What is Serial Port?
Similar Reads

Sinusoidal Signal
Sinusoidal Signal is an important tool in the electronic industry. They
are ubiquitous in modern electronics and are almost used in every
daily appliance for input as Voltage, Current, and power amplifiers.
In this article, we will study what a sinusoidal signal, how does it
look like. We will also represent the Sinusoidal signal
mathematically. La
8 min read

Triangular Signal - Electrical Circuits

Triangular Signals are an important tool in the electronic industry.
They are ubiquitous in modern electronics and are almost used in
every daily appliance for Voltage, Current, and power amplifiers. In
this article, we will study what a triangular signal, how does it look
like. We will also represent the Triangular signal mathematically.
Later we
6 min read

Unit Step Signal in Control System

A Control System is a system which manages commands and
regulates or directs the behaviour of other devices using control
loops. A control system is a device which provides the desired
response by controlling the output. A control system can also be
defined as a system with a combination of mechanical or electronic
devices that controls other devic
9 min read
Unit Impulse Signal in Control System
In this article, we are going to learn about the unit impulse signal in
control systems. We know that a signal is a source of information
that varies with time, space, temperature, and other independent
variables. We can also define a signal as a function that conveys
information about a phenomenon or a process. There are two types
of signals conti
11 min read

Signal Generator
Signal Generators are used to replicate and control the source of
electrical signals for many different applications, signal generators
are crucial devices for electrical and electronics engineers. From
electronic circuit testing to the diagnosis, and repair can all be done
with signal generators. In this article we will go through signal
generator
11 min read

Basic Signal Operations

Basic signal operations are nothing but signal manipulation or
modification tools that are used in signal processing and analysis. It
helps to understand the signals in different situations. These
operations allow the modification and enhancement of signals for
specific applications. In this article, we will discuss the basic signal
operations and
10 min read

N channel MOSFET
A MOSFET is a three-terminal device in which the gate terminal is
insulated from the channel by a silicon dioxide (SiO2) layer,
therefore, it is also known as an insulated gate field effect transistor
(IGFET), MOSFET works like a MOS capacitor which is controlled by
the input gate to source voltage. That's why MOSFET can also be
used as a voltage-c
11 min read
Sample and Hold Circuit
Sample and Hold Circuit is a circuit that used in signal processing
and data procurement system. The main function of this system is
to transmit the signal and sample the input value and hold or freeze
this processed value for some time. This circuit permits the circuit to
catch and manage the instantaneous data or value of the signal and
this is u
10 min read

Difference Between Clipper and Clamper

Clippers and Clampers are very important for changing waveforms
into different shapes. They are important parts of handling signals,
helping engineers to manage and change electrical messages. A
clipper is a simple electric system made to change the shape of an
incoming sound wave. It controls or "clips" how loud it can be, so we
don't need full st
15 min read

3 Phase Induction Motor

The motor serves the purpose of converting electrical energy into
mechanical form. Motors are categorized into AC motors and DC
motors based on the type of power supply. In this post, we will talk
about the different types of three-phase induction motors with
working and applications. The induction motors especially three-
phase induction motors are
15+ min read

Feedback Amplifier
A feedback amplifier is a type of electronic circuit where the output
of the signal is fed back to the input. This feedback loop allows the
amplifier to adjust its performance according to the output received
which helps improve the signal's characteristics. Feedback
Amplifiers are used in various electronic circuits such as operational
amplifiers,
7 min read

What is Signal ?
Signals shows a phenomenon in the form of function of variables. In
this article, we will be going through Signals. We will start with the
Definition of Signals, and then we will go through different types of
signals and parameters. Also, we will go through what is digital
signal processing and then go through signals and notation where
we will go
9 min read

Working Principle of SMPS

A switching regulator is integrated into an electronic power supply
called a switch mode power supply (SMPS), which is sometimes
referred to as a switcher, switched power supply, switching-mode
power supply, and simply switcher. This power supply effectively
converts electrical power. An SMPS, like other kinds of power
supplies, converts current an
8 min read

Controllability and Observability in Control System

The control system is the system that directs the input to another
system and regulates its output. It helps in determining the system's
behavior. The controllability and observability help in designing the
control system more effectively. Controllability is the ability to
control the state of the system by applying specific input whereas
observabi
6 min read

Pulse Width Modulation (PWM)

In Electronic Engineering, Pulse Width Modulation, or PWM, is a
commonly used technique for effectively controlling the power
supplied to electrical devices. In order to attain a desired average
voltage or power level, the principle of pulse width modulation
(PWM) is used for a periodic signal, which is usually a square wave.
A key component of pul
10 min read

Linear Variable Differential Transformer (LVDT)

The LVDT stands for Linear Variable Differential Transformer. It
converts the Linear motion into an electrical signal using an
inductive transducer. Due to its superior sensitivity and accuracy
over other inductive transducers, the LVDT is extensively used in
many different fields. For measuring linear distance, the linear
variable differential tra
9 min read

Transistor
A Transistor is one of the types of semiconductor devices that is
used to conduct and insulate electric current or voltages. A
transistor acts as a switch and as an amplifier. Transistors are
considered one of the key components in most of the electronic
components that we use today. It is also considered one of the best
inventions in the history o
14 min read

Power Semiconductor Devices

In electronic components, Power Semiconductor Devices are
electronic devices that need an external power source to operate
actively. Materials used to make semiconductor devices are neither
excellent insulators nor conductors. They mainly manipulate,
amplify, switch, or control the flow of electric current or voltage in a
circuit. Power Semiconduct
15+ min read

What is Thyristors in Power Electronics ?

Thyristors in Power Electronics are used as power semiconductor
devices which are used as on/off switches in power control circuits.
A power semiconductor device is a semiconductor device used as a
switch or rectifier in power electronics for example in a switch-mode
power supply. A thyristor is the most important type of power
semiconductor device
 15+ min read

What are the Different Types of Signals?

An electrical signal is a physical quantity that varies with time. It
varies with any dependent or independent quantity. A signal can
either be one-dimensional or multi-dimensional. When the function
which varies with time depends only on a single variable then that
type of signal is referred to as a one-dimensional signal. Examples of
such signals
10 min read

Article Tags :
 Electrical Engineering
 Geeks Premier League
 Electric circuits
 Signals and Systems
+1 More

Corporate & Communications Address:- A-143, 9th Floor, Sovereign Corporate

Tower, Sector- 136, Noida, Uttar Pradesh (201305) | Registered Address:- K 061,
Tower K, Gulshan Vivante Apartment, Sector 137, Noida, Gautam Buddh Nagar,
Uttar Pradesh, 201305
 Company
 About Us
 Legal
 In Media
 Contact Us
 Advertise with us
 GFG Corporate Solution
 Placement Training Program
 GeeksforGeeks Community
 Languages
 Python
 Java
 C++
 PHP
 GoLang
 SQL
 R Language
 Android Tutorial
 Tutorials Archive
 DSA
 Data Structures
 Algorithms
 DSA for Beginners
 Basic DSA Problems
 DSA Roadmap
 Top 100 DSA Interview Problems
 DSA Roadmap by Sandeep Jain
 All Cheat Sheets
 Data Science & ML
 Data Science With Python
 Data Science For Beginner
 Machine Learning
 ML Maths
 Data Visualisation
 Pandas
 NumPy
 NLP
 Deep Learning
 Web Technologies
 HTML
 CSS
 JavaScript
 TypeScript
 ReactJS
 NextJS
 Bootstrap
 Web Design
 Python Tutorial
 Python Programming Examples
 Python Projects
 Python Tkinter
 Web Scraping
 OpenCV Tutorial
 Python Interview Question
 Django
 Computer Science
 Operating Systems
 Computer Network
 Database Management System
 Software Engineering
 Digital Logic Design
 Engineering Maths
 Software Development
 Software Testing
 DevOps
 Git
 Linux
 AWS
 Docker
 Kubernetes
 Azure
 GCP
 DevOps Roadmap
 System Design
 High Level Design
 Low Level Design
 UML Diagrams
 Interview Guide
 Design Patterns
 OOAD
 System Design Bootcamp
 Interview Questions
 Inteview Preparation
 Competitive Programming
 Top DS or Algo for CP
 Company-Wise Recruitment Process
 Company-Wise Preparation
 Aptitude Preparation
 Puzzles
 School Subjects
 Mathematics
 Physics
 Chemistry
 Biology
 Social Science
 English Grammar
 Commerce
 World GK
 GeeksforGeeks Videos
 DSA
 Python
 Java
 C++
 Web Development
 Data Science
 CS Subjects
@GeeksforGeeks, Sanchhaya Education Private Limited, All rights reserved