A Simple Approach to Digital Signal Processing

Introduction

THE PURPOSE OF THIS BOOK

This book is intended for anyone who needs to know about digital signal processing (DSP) but hasn't really got the first idea what it's all about.

If you are a “mature” engineer who never studied digital signal processing in college but now need to learn about it, this book is for you. If you are an extremely confused undergraduate, this book is also for you.

We cannot hope to give you all the knowledge you will need to design a high-speed data modem or pass your examinations, but we will provide a readable introduction to this highly technical subject. You will learn about sampling, filters, frequency transforms, data compression and the design decisions you will need to take. In addition, we will point you toward other texts that can extend your knowledge in specific areas.

One of the aims of this book is to give you some basic knowledge so that you can make sense of some of the more advanced books on digital signal processing. So often they start at too high a level. Once you have read this book, you should be ready to tackle them with more confidence.

You will be relieved to learn that there is very little mathematics in this book. We realize that Chapter 5 contains a fair number of equations, but you should see the other books on frequency transforms! We have concentrated on diagrams and explanation as much as possible – you can get all the mathematics you want from the recommendations for further reading.

Finally, if you actually need ...