What does 'waveform analysis' involve in digital instrumentation?

Waveform analysis is a crucial aspect of digital instrumentation that focuses on examining the shape and characteristics of waveforms. This includes analyzing aspects such as amplitude, frequency, phase, and overall morphology of the signals. The examination helps in determining how well a system is functioning and in identifying any anomalies that may affect performance.

Understanding the shape of waveforms can provide insights into the behavior of electrical signals, including any distortions or irregularities, which may indicate potential issues within an electrical system. For example, comparing a measured waveform to a known reference waveform allows for the detection of variations that could affect the integrity of the signal.

In contrast, changing the frequency of signals pertains more to signal generation and manipulation rather than analysis. Tracking the source of electrical noise and filtering out unwanted signals involve different processes that aim to improve signal quality or performance rather than examining the characteristics of the signals themselves. Therefore, the essence of waveform analysis lies fundamentally in the detailed study of the form and specifics of waveforms, making it pivotal for both diagnostics and system optimization in digital instrumentation.