James R. Andrews; M. Gerald Arthur

Abstract: This technical note is a detailed discussion of the electromagnetic quantity, spectrum amplitude, which is used to characterize broadband signals and noise. The definition of spectrum amplitude is presented in detail. Several practical means of generating electrical signals with broadband spectrum amplitudes are included. Various techniques for the measurement of spectrum amplitude are described along with experimental comparisons. The NBS measurement service for the calibration of impulse generator spectrum amplitude is described along with an error analysis.

Keywords: impulse; electromagnetic interference; Fourier transformation; impulse generator; spectrum amplitude

Disclaimer: Certain commercial equipment, components, and software may be identified in this report to specify adequately the technical aspects of the reported results. In no case does such identification imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, nor does it imply that the equipment or software identified is necessarily the best available for the particular application or uses.

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