DC component definition: The DC component of a pulse waveform equals its average (mean) value over time, not the peak value. True or false?

Introduction / Context:
Separating a signal into DC and AC components is fundamental in electronics and signal processing. Misidentifying the DC component leads to errors in biasing, power calculations, and coupling decisions.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• A periodic pulse waveform with defined amplitude and duty cycle.
• Stationary statistics (periodic steady-state).
• Standard Fourier series interpretation: DC component is the zero-frequency term.

Concept / Approach:

The DC component is the average value over one full period: Vdc = (1/T) * ∫0^T v(t) dt. Peak value is the maximum instantaneous amplitude and generally exceeds the average unless duty cycle is 100% with no variation. Therefore, equating DC component with peak value is incorrect.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Measure with a DMM in DC mode (averaging) and an oscilloscope for peak. For a 25% duty 5 V pulse, Vdc = 1.25 V while Vpeak = 5 V, demonstrating the distinction.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• “True” would only hold for a constant (non-pulsed) signal; the prompt claims it for pulses, which is generally false.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing RMS with average; RMS for pulses depends on duty and equals √(duty)*Vpeak for a 0/Vpeak pulse, which is also not the DC component.

Final Answer:

False