How components react to different signal frequencies.

March 17, 2025

1. Resistor (R)

Resistors do not change behavior with frequency. No matter the frequency of the signal (low or high), a resistor offers the same resistance.

  • Behavior: Constant at all frequencies.

  • Use: Controls current flow and voltage drop.


2. Capacitor (C)

A capacitor blocks low-frequency signals and passes high-frequency signals.

  • At low frequencies (or DC): Acts like an open circuit (blocks current).

  • At high frequencies: Acts like a short circuit (allows current).

Think of it like a frequency gateβ€”only high-frequency signals can get through easily.

  • Capacitive Reactance (Xc) = 1 / (2Ο€fC):

    • Higher frequency β†’ Lower Xc β†’ Easier for signal to pass.

    • Lower frequency β†’ Higher Xc β†’ Harder for signal to pass.


3. Inductor (L)

An inductor passes low-frequency signals and blocks high-frequency signals.

  • At low frequencies (or DC): Acts like a short circuit (easy flow).

  • At high frequencies: Acts like an open circuit (resists flow).

Opposite of a capacitor.

  • Inductive Reactance (Xl) = 2Ο€fL:

    • Higher frequency β†’ Higher Xl β†’ More opposition to signal.

    • Lower frequency β†’ Lower Xl β†’ Less opposition.


4. Filters (Built Using R, L, and C)

Filters are special circuits that selectively pass or block certain frequencies.

  • Low-pass filter: Lets low frequencies pass, blocks high ones.

  • High-pass filter: Lets high frequencies pass, blocks low ones.

  • Band-pass filter: Passes only a range of frequencies.

  • Band-stop filter: Blocks a certain range of frequencies.

These are made using combinations of resistors, capacitors, and inductors.


Real-Life Examples

  • Speakers: Use filters to send bass to big woofers and treble to tweeters.

  • Radios: Use filters to pick out your desired station frequency.

  • Power supplies: Use capacitors to block noise (high-frequency signals).


Summary:

Component Low Frequency Behavior High Frequency Behavior
Resistor Constant resistance Constant resistance
Capacitor Blocks (open circuit) Passes (short circuit)
Inductor Passes (short circuit) Blocks (open circuit)
  • Capacitor: Blocks low, passes high.

  • Inductor: Passes low, blocks high.

  • Resistor: Unaffected by frequency.

  • Filters: Combine these components to allow or block specific frequencies.

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