The Fundamentals of FFT-Based Signal Analysis and Measurement

The Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) and the power spectrum are powerful tools for analyzing and measuring signals from plug-in data acquisition (DAQ) devices. For example, you can effectively acquire time-domain signals, measure the frequency content, and convert the results to real-world units and displays as shown on traditional benchtop spectrum and network analyzers. By using plug-in DAQ devices, you can build a lower cost measurement system and avoid the communication overhead of working with a stand-alone instrument. Plus, you have the flexibility of configuring your measurement processing to meet your needs.