Forming the fast Fourier transform of a step response in time-domain metrology

Abstract

If the discrete Fourier transform of the step response of a network is taken, a large truncation error results, since only a finite number of samples is used. This error is usually removed by first differentiating the waveform, with consequent noise enhancement. The letter shows that the error may also be removed at discrete frequencies, simply by first subtracting a ramp from the step response.