Updated 24 Feb 2008

Joe's Technical Article Page

This page contains a list of technical articles that I have written on various topics. If you got to this page by some link other than via my home page (Joe Roberts), please check out my Resume for credentials.

Technical Article Index

• AC Power explained An introduction to AC "house" power, with a focus on audio and DJ equipment. (text, about 33k)
• Power Amplifier Fundamentals An introduction to audio power amplifiers, with focus on amps used in DJ systems. (text, about 55k)
• Speaker FAQs and ABC's A basic introduction to loudspeakers, with a focus on speakers used for DJ systems. (text, about 23k)
• Signal Analysis with Digitizing Oscilloscopes A brief treatment of "things to avoid" when using a digital oscope.
• Digital Images for the Web: Introduction and Tips Some basic info on digital images, digital cameras, and scanners.
• Analysis of DC-AC Power Inverter Waveforms A look at the characteristics of the AC power waveform generated by a Radio Shack AC Power Inverter.
• Noise Reduction in Digital (CCD and Webcam) Imaging A look at how stacking of images can be used to improve CCD and Web cam images.
• Stacking Astronomical Images in PhotoShop A look at how to use PhotoShop to stack astronomical images, along with a proof that the method does indeed work as desired.
• Audio Power Amplifier Power Rating Mysteries Explained (Once and For All!) A paper that explains all facets of power ratings associated with audio amplifiers (home stereo and pro audio).
• Power Measurements for a Sherwood XA-2105BP Car Power Amplifier An article showing some power measurements of a typical amplifier intended for car audio use, along with discussions on clipping behavior at frequency extremes.
• Speaker Wiring Topologies An article showing some of the more common arrangements for wiring of multiple speakers.
• Bi and Tri Amplification in Audio Systems An article that covers the basics of Bi and Tri Amplified Sound Systems.
• The Realistic SA-10 Stereo Amplifier An article that covers the the Realistic (Radio Shack) SA-10 audio amplifier.
• Monitor Calibration A test pattern that can be used to verify the calibration of your monitor. (text, about 33k)

Articles I hope to write when time allows

• Fundamentals of Beamforming
• Near Field Correction
• Fundamentals of Digital Signal Processing
• Importance of bit depth in audio/image processing
• MP3 files vs. WAV files
• A/D conversion and Impacts of Quantization Noise