Linear Systems and Signals, 2nd Edition
Incorporating new problems and examples, the second edition of Linear Systems and Signals features MATLAB® material in each chapter and at the back of the book. It gives clear descriptions of linear systems and uses mathematics not only to prove axiomatic theory, but also to enhance physical and intuitive understanding.
Why Read This Book
You should read this book if you want a clear, example-driven foundation in continuous- and discrete-time linear systems with plenty of MATLAB exercises to bridge theory and simulation. It balances mathematical rigor and physical intuition so you can both prove results and apply them to signal-processing problems.
Who Will Benefit
Undergraduate or early graduate electrical/computer engineering students and practicing engineers who need a solid grounding in signals and systems to support DSP, communications, or control work.
Level: Intermediate — Prerequisites: Single-variable calculus, basic differential equations, and elementary complex numbers/linear algebra; basic programming is helpful for the MATLAB exercises.
Key Takeaways
- Explain and manipulate signal types and basic operations (shift, scale, energy/power, even/odd decomposition).
- Analyze LTI systems in the time domain using convolution and impulse/step responses.
- Apply Fourier series/transform, DTFT, and their properties to frequency-domain analysis of signals and filters.
- Use Laplace and z-transforms to compute system responses and determine stability and regions of convergence.
- Apply the sampling theorem and understand aliasing and reconstruction considerations.
- Implement and verify signal-processing examples and exercises using MATLAB.
Topics Covered
- 1. Signals: Definitions, Classification, and Basic Operations
- 2. Linearity and Time-Invariance; Convolution and Impulse Response
- 3. Continuous-Time System Analysis in the Time Domain
- 4. Fourier Series and Frequency-Domain Representation of Periodic Signals
- 5. Fourier Transform for Aperiodic Continuous-Time Signals
- 6. Discrete-Time Signals and the Discrete-Time Fourier Transform (DTFT)
- 7. Sampling, Reconstruction, and Discrete-Time Modeling
- 8. Laplace Transform and Continuous-Time System Analysis
- 9. z-Transform and Discrete-Time System Analysis
- 10. Stability, Causality, and System Function Properties
- 11. State-Space Methods and Time-Domain Solutions
- 12. MATLAB Examples, Numerical Issues, and Problems
Languages, Platforms & Tools
How It Compares
Covers much the same foundational material as Oppenheim & Willsky's Signals and Systems but is generally more accessible and application-oriented with more MATLAB exercises; less encyclopedic than Oppenheim but friendlier for first exposure.
