Signal is a measurable quantity that depends on one or more independent variables, and it is a time-varying quantity that conveys information. For e.g
A= [5 12 15]
Think to yourself, is it a signal or not?
It's not a signal because this set of numbers does not convey any specific information. The following examples can help you understand.
Temperature: 25 30 45
Is it a signal? The answer is yes. But why?
Because it conveys information about temperature data. The first example can also be a signal if it means any specific information.
Why should we learn more about signals in electrical engineering?
Because there are versatile applications for signals in electrical engineering, e.g., communication systems, control systems, power systems, signal processing, and more. And it is one of the most important topics in these sectors. So, if we want to research these sectors, then there is no alternating way to skip the topic.
Types of Signal: Based on a signal's unique properties, behaviors, and applications, there are various types of signals.
- Analog Signal (continuous signal)
- Digital Signal (a discrete signal that is often represented by binary values 0s and 1s).
- Periodic Signal (repeats itself after a fixed interval, known as the period.)
- Aperiodic Signal (does not repeat itself over time).
- Deterministic Signal
- Random Signal