Amplitudfel

Amplitudfel is a theoretical metric used in signal processing to quantify the deviation between the instantaneous amplitude of a waveform and a predefined reference envelope. It provides a concise way to describe how much a signal’s amplitude strays from its intended level over time, which can be important in systems that require tight amplitude control.

Definition and calculation

Amplitudfel at time t can be described as the difference between the actual instantaneous amplitude A_actual(t) and a reference amplitude A_ref(t). A normalized form, which yields a dimensionless measure, is obtained by dividing the difference by A_ref(t). Practically, A_actual is derived from the magnitude of the analytic signal (often via the Hilbert transform) and A_ref is set by the system design or regulation target.

Interpretation and properties

Amplitudfel is a time-varying, signed quantity that can be positive or negative depending on whether the actual amplitude exceeds or falls short of the reference. Zero amplitudfel indicates perfect amplitude tracking. Its statistics, such as mean and root-mean-square value, summarize overall amplitude accuracy and are sensitive to noise and transient distortions. As a diagnostic, amplitudfel helps distinguish amplitude-related distortion from phase or timing errors.

Applications

The concept is applicable in power and audio amplifiers, automatic gain control loops, envelope tracking in communications, and any context where stable amplitude is critical. It guides gain adjustments, clipping prevention, and dynamic range management by highlighting when and where amplitude deviations occur.

Etymology and related terms

The term combines amplitude with fel, a word element for error in several Germanic languages. Related concepts include amplitude modulation, envelope detection, and distortion metrics such as RMS error of amplitude.