I am wondering if i need to take into account the input and output impedance when finding a filter circuit frequency from it's transfer function. The previous LC filter i designed took into account the input and output impedance which result in -6dB+ even at low frequency when i simulated it. I suspect i might be missing a concept to understand why it is -6db even before the -3db drop at the cutoff frequency. Thank you for your time.

 

hi W,
If you are referring to your earlier Thread.?

Consider removing the Cap, so you have a potential divider, 54.5R and 50R.

For explanation consider that they are both 50R... that will be a 6dB attenuation of any signal on the input, measured at the junction of the two resistors OK.?

E

Update:
If the Cap was connected in parallel with the 50R, its Impedance would decrease as the frequency of the AC input increased.

Added images:

One image shows the Cap Impedance and the other Impedance of the parallel Cap and 50R, versus Frequency
Also the total Impedance of the network...

 

Yes i was refering to my previous thread. Ah i see what you mean, the two 50ohm resistor will form a voltage divider which causes the -6db attenuation even without the RC filter. However, am i right to include the input and output impedance during the calculation of the transfer function to find the cut off frequency of the RC filter? Or must i exclude the impedance during the calculation?

 

hi W,
If you were given the value of the 'actual' Input and Output Impedances, you would include them in your calculations.
They have not been given so you should just analyse the circuit as is given to you.

Don't forget the Zsource and Zload can be complex, not just resistive components.

E

 

I was told to only consider the case where the input and output impedance is 50ohm . Thank you! This cleared up my doubts.