1. What is Nyquist Sampling Frequency?

Definition: The minimum sampling rate required to accurately reconstruct a signal without aliasing, equal to twice the highest frequency present in the signal.

Purpose: Essential in digital signal processing to ensure accurate representation of analog signals when converted to digital format.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Nyquist-Shannon sampling theorem formula:

Where:

• \( f_s \) — Sampling frequency (Hertz, Hz)
• \( f_{max} \) — Maximum signal frequency (Hertz, Hz)

Explanation: To properly sample a signal, you must sample at least twice as fast as the highest frequency component in the signal.

3. Importance of Nyquist Frequency

Details: Proper sampling prevents aliasing (signal distortion) and ensures the original signal can be perfectly reconstructed from its samples.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the highest frequency component in your signal (in Hz). The calculator will determine the minimum required sampling frequency.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is it called Nyquist frequency?
A: Named after Harry Nyquist, a Swedish-American engineer who contributed to the sampling theorem.

Q2: What happens if I sample below the Nyquist rate?
A: Aliasing occurs, where higher frequencies appear as lower frequencies in the sampled signal.

Q3: Is the Nyquist rate always sufficient?
A: In practice, sampling at 2.2-2.5 times the maximum frequency is often recommended for safety margins.

Q4: How do I determine f_max for my signal?
A: Use spectrum analysis tools or consider the bandwidth of your signal source.

Q5: Does this apply to all signal types?
A: The theorem applies to bandlimited signals - those with finite maximum frequency.