Periodic and non-Periodic signals

Periodic Signals

Periodic signal repeats itself after certain interval of time. We can show this in equation form as −

x(t)=x(t)±nT$$x(t)=x(t)\pm nT$$

Where, n = an integer (1,2,3……)

T = Fundamental time period (FTP) ≠ 0 and ≠∞

Fundamental time period (FTP) is the smallest positive and fixed value of time for which signal is periodic.

A triangular signal is shown in the figure above of amplitude A. Here, the signal is repeating after every 1 sec. Therefore, we can say that the signal is periodic and its FTP is 1 sec.

Non-Periodic Signal

Simply, we can say, the signals, which are not periodic are non-periodic in nature. As obvious, these signals will not repeat themselves after any interval time.

Non-periodic signals do not follow a certain format; therefore, no particular mathematical equation can describe them.