Transient (Time domain) in transmission lines

In summary, the conversation discusses the behavior of TEM waves in a cable with an impedance mismatch and changing propagation velocity. The reflection of backward-propagating signals creates standing waves, and the characteristic impedance of a coaxial cable is dependent on its dimensions and the permeability and permittivity of the dielectric material.
  • #1
radagast_
29
0
Hello.
I am watching this video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIQtnQ9XPbE

and he says there:

Note how the reflections "bounce" back and forth along the 100-ohm segment, eventually converging into a steady-state system after the 3rd bounce or so.

I see that the wave turns into a "normal" sinus in the end, but it's not constant.
I think, that even on an unmatched transmission line, the waves should go back and forth, but eventually turn into a constant voltage. Isn't that correct?
If not, and the correct answer is that the steady state IS the final wave there - how do I calculate the voltage? is it the RMS of the wave?

Thank you.
 
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  • #2
When a TEM wave in a cable goes from one medium (cable) to another, If there is an impedance mismatch (and the signal source is a voltage source), there is a reflection and a standing wave. Furthermore if the propagation velocity changes, the waves "pile up" in the downstream cable. There are two equations that are relevant:

Cable impedance is proportional to

Z = sqrt(1/ε)

and the propagation velocity is proportional to

and v = βc = 1/sqrt(ε)

where ε is the dielectric constant of the dielectric in the cable. A high dielectric constant reduces both the cable impedance and the propagation velocity.

If the signal source impedance does not equal the cable impedance, there is a reflection of the backward-propagating signal, producing a standing wave.

Bob S
 
  • #3
Thanks.
 
  • #4
For my previous post, the characteristic impedance of a coaxial cable is about

Z = (1/2 pi) sqrt(μ0/εε0) Ln(R/r)

where R and r are the outer and inner radii of the coax, and sqrt(μ00) = 377 ohms.

Bob S
 

Related to Transient (Time domain) in transmission lines

1. What is a transient in transmission lines?

A transient in transmission lines refers to a temporary disturbance or change in the electrical characteristics of the line. This can be caused by sudden changes in voltage, current, or other parameters and can affect the behavior of the line for a limited period of time.

2. What are the main causes of transients in transmission lines?

The main causes of transients in transmission lines include lightning strikes, switching operations, and faults in the system. These events can create sudden changes in voltage or current, resulting in transients that can propagate along the line and affect the performance of connected equipment.

3. How do transients impact the performance of transmission lines?

Transients can cause voltage and current fluctuations, which can lead to equipment failure, insulation breakdown, and other damaging effects. They can also cause interference and disruptions in communication systems that rely on transmission lines.

4. How are transients mitigated in transmission lines?

Transients can be mitigated through the use of protective devices such as surge arresters, which can divert the excess energy from a transient away from the line. Proper grounding and shielding techniques can also help to reduce the impact of transients on transmission lines and connected equipment.

5. Can transients be completely eliminated in transmission lines?

While it is not possible to completely eliminate transients in transmission lines, proper design, installation, and maintenance can greatly reduce their impact. Additionally, the use of protective devices and proper grounding techniques can help to minimize the effects of transients on the overall performance of the transmission line.

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