Probing signals for measuring nonlinear Volterra kernels

The frequency domain measurement of the Volterra kernels of a nonlinear system using periodic multisine probing signals is now a practical possibility. An analysis is presented of the harmonic output of a Volterra kernel when excited with a multiharmonic signal, which lays the basis for the design of such signals. This is followed by a review of previous work in this area, after which a range of new probing signals are defined. The minimisation of the signal crest factors is then examined, along with the practical problems associated with their application. Practical results are presented which illustrate the application of the signals on laboratory scale nonlinear circuits