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Old May 9th 04, 08:02 AM
Tom Bruhns
 
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"AM200" wrote in message ...

What does "Q" actually stand for as i can't find anyone that can explain
this.


Q is generally taken to "stand for" quality factor. The definition I
like to go back to when all else fails is "energy stored divided by
energy dissipated per radian." Q really only makes sense when you are
talking about single resonators. This definition of Q applies to LC
tanks, coaxial cavities, hollow cavities, acoustic resonators,
pendulums, or any other singly resonant structure.

High Q resonators "ring" for a long time, a lot of cycles. Low Q
resonators dissipate energy rapidly and the ringing fades quickly.

Cheers,
Tom