Simulation and experimental results of multiharmonic least-squares fitting algorithms applied to periodic signals

A new generation of multipurpose measurement equipment is transforming the role of computers in instrumentation. The new features involve mixed devices, such as analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters and digital signal processing techniques, that are able to substitute typical discrete instruments like multimeters and analyzers. Signal-processing applications frequently use least-squares (LS) sine-fitting algorithms. Periodic signals may be interpreted as a sum of sine waves with multiple frequencies: the Fourier series. This paper describes an algorithm that is able to fit a multiharmonic acquired signal, determining the amplitude and phase of all harmonics. Simulation and experimental results are presented.