Transfer function analysis forms the basis of all research performed using Solartron frequency response analyzers (FRAs). It is a technique whereby a sinusoidal signal is used to measure points on a system with respect to other points or an input signal. The magnitude and phase of the output signal are related to the transfer function at the frequency of the input signal. The test signal is sent to some form of signal converter (or actuator) which applies a stimulus to the test system (this can take many forms: electrical, mechanical, magnetic, light intensity, reflectance, pressure). The system response will then be measured via some form of relevant sensor and the output fed back to the FRA.
Transfer function analysis techniques can be summarized into four groups:
- Transfer functions involving an electrical response, e.g. EIS
- Transfer functions involving a non-electrical response, e.g. electrohydrodynamical
- Transfer functions involving a non-electrical perturbation, e.g. mechanical, pressure, temperature, magnetic field
- Transfer functions involving both non-electrical perturbation and response, e.g. photoelectrochemical impedance spectroscopy
A standard use for an FRA is to generate a signal which is connected to a signal converter, this may take many forms; either hydraulic, pneumatic or electrical, which forces controlled movement to take place (such as displacement transducers used in aerodynamic tests). These are placed on the system under test and the output signal fed back to the FRA via a sensor. This field is expanding to cover a range of signal converting systems and connected sensor technologies, such as modulated light intensity, magnetic field strength and disk rotation velocity.
Frequency Response Analyzers/Impedance Analyzers
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1260A Impedance/Gain-Phase Analyzer |
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1255A Frequency Response Analyzer |
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1255B Frequency Response Analyzer |
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1253A Frequency Response Analyzer |
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1250 Frequency Response Analyzer |
