Why You Should Use An Anti Alias Filter
There are many ways to improve a data acquisition hardware system. However, one of the best options is to add an anti-alias filter. These filters ensure that your input signal's frequency is less than or at least equal to half of the sampling rate. This allows for more accurate data acquisition results and prevents unwanted components from being included in the sampling. Thus, if you're not currently using an anti-alias filter, there's a good chance that your results aren't fully correct, which could mean errors in all the ways in which you choose to apply those results. Plus, you're also missing out on the many great advantages that data acquisition anti-alias filters can offer.
Get Rid Of Too-High Frequencies
One of the main and most important functions of a good anti-alias filter is to get rid of any higher frequencies that you don't want skewing your results.
These frequencies tend to be higher than the approved Nyquist frequency and should not be included in your data. However, without an anti-alias filter in use, they will be. There is no other way to prevent this problem, making these filters an absolute must, especially when your application requires extreme accuracy.
Avoid Stray Frequencies
Another common problem experienced during data acquisition is picking up stray or unwanted frequencies. These might be frequencies that you inadvertently pick up from a nearby television station, for example, or from the power lines themselves, all of which can make your results inaccurate.
People often think that the location in which they do their work is not close to or affected by stray frequencies. However, they really are everywhere, and there's no clear way to tell for sure if stray frequencies exist or not. Thus, it always better to be safe than sorry and to have an anti-alias filter in place to keep these frequencies from impacting you and your results.
Enjoy Customization
When it comes to more common data acquisition applications, you can simply purchase an anti-alias filter that meets your specific needs.
However, if you have a more complex project or special needs, filters can be made to suit those needs. There are some limitations, but generally, if you describe your project and needs to a professional supplier, they can match you with or, when needed, create a filter that works for you.
An anti-alias filter is extremely useful and even required in some cases. So, make sure you don't skip this all-important process.
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