Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of

Discrete-Time Systems

Dr.-Ing. Sudchai Boonto

Assistant Professor

Department of Control System and Instrumentation Engineering

King Mongkut’s Unniversity of Technology Thonburi
Thailand
Outline

• Discrete-Time System Equations

• E operator

• Response of Linear Discrete-Time Systems

• Useful Signal Operations

• Response of Linear Discrete-Time Systems

• Zero-Input and Zero-State Response

• Convolution Sum

• Graphical Procedure for the Convolution Sum

• Classical Solution of Linear Difference Equations

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 2/60 I }

Discrete-Time System Equations
Advanced operator form:

y[k + n] + an−1 y[k + n − 1] + · · · + a1 y[k + 1] + a0 y[k] =

bm f[k + m] + bm−1 f[k + m − 1] + · · · + b1 f[k + 1] + b0 f[k]

The left-hand side of this form consists of the output at instants k + n, k + n − 1, k + n − 2,

and so on. The right-hand side of the equation consists of the input at instants k + m,
k + m − 1, k + m − 2, and so on.

The condition that the above system is causal is m ≤ n. For a general causal case, m = n,
the above system can be expressed as

y[k + n] + an−1 y[k + n − 1] + · · · + a1 y[k + 1] + a0 y[k] =

bn f[k + n] + bn−1 f[k + n − 1] + · · · + b1 f[k + 1] + b0 f[k]

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 3/60 I }

Discrete-Time System Equations
Delay operator form: In case m = n, we can replace k by k − n throughout the equation.
Such replacement yields the delay operator form.

y[k] + an−1 y[k − 1] + · · · + a1 y[k − n + 1] + a0 y[k − n] =

bn f[k] + bn−1 f[k − 1] + · · · + b1 f[k − n + 1] + b0 f[k − n]

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 4/60 I }

Iterative Solution of Difference Equations
From the delay operator form

y[k] + an−1 y[k − 1] + · · · + a1 y[k − n + 1] + a0 y[k − n] =

bn f[k] + bn−1 f[k − 1] + · · · + b1 f[k − n + 1] + b0 f[k − n]

It can be expressed as

y[k] = −an−1 y[k − 1] − an−2 y[k − 2] − · · · − a0 y[k − n]

+ bn f[k] + bn−1 f[k − 1] + · · · + b0 f[k − n]

There are the past n values of the output: y[k − 1], y[k − 2],. . ., y[k − n], the past n values of
the input: f[k − 1], f[k − 2], . . ., f[k − n], and the present value of the input f[k].

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 5/60 I }

Initial Conditions and Iterative Solution of Difference
Equations
If the input is causal, the f[−1] = f[−2] = . . . = f[−n] = 0, and we need only n initial
conditions y[−1], y[−2], . . ., y[−n]. This result allows us to compute iteratively or recursively
the output y[0], y[1], y[2], y[3], . . ., and so on. For instant,
• to find y[0] we set k = 0.
• the left-hand side is y[0], and the right-hand side contains terms y[−1], y[−2], …,
y[−n] and the input f[0], f[−1], f[−2], …, f[−n].
• Therefore, we must know the n initial conditions y[−1], y[−2], …, y[−n] to find y[0],
y[1], y[2], . . . and so on.

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 6/60 I }

Iterative Solution of Difference Equations
Examples

Solve iteratively

y[k] − 0.5y[k − 1] = f[k]

with initial condition y[−1] = 16 and causal input f[k] = k2 .

Solution: Rewritten the equation in the delay operator form and move all past outputs to the
left:

y[k] = 0.5y[k − 1] + f[k]

We obtain

y[0] = 0.5y[−1] + f[0] = 0.5(16) + 0 = 8

y[1] = 0.5y[0] + f[1] = 0.5(8) + (1)2 = 5
y[2] = 0.5y[1] + f[2] = 0.5(5) + (2)2 = 6.5
y[3] = 0.5y[2] + f[3] = 0.5(6.5) + (3)2 = 12.25
y[4] = 0.5y[3] + f[4] = 0.5(12.25) + (4)2 = 22.125

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 7/60 I }

Iterative Solution of Difference Equations
Examples cont.

y[k]

12.25

8 6.5
5 ...

k
0 1 2 3

Figure: Iterative solution of a difference

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 8/60 I }

Iterative Solution of Difference Equations
Examples cont.

Solve iteratively

y[k + 2] − y[k + 1] + 0.24y[k] = f[k + 2] − 2f[k + 1]

with initial conditions y[−1] = 2, y[−2] = 1 and a causal input f[k] = k.

Solution: Rewritten the equation in the delay operator form and move all past outputs to the
left:

y[k] = y[k − 1] − 0.24y[k − 2] + f[k] − 2f[k − 1]

We obtain

y[0] = y[−1] − 0.24y[−2] + f[0] − 2f[−1] = 2 − 0.24(1) + 0 − 0 = 1.76

y[1] = y[0] − 0.24y[−1] + f[1] − 2f[0] = 1.76 − 0.24(2) + 1 − 0 = 2.28
y[2] = y[1] − 0.24y[0] + f[2] − 2f[1] = 2.28 − 0.24(1.76) + 2 − 2(1) = 1.8576

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 9/60 I }

E operator
In continuous-time system we used the operator D to denote the operation of differentiation.
For discrete-time systems we use the operator E to denote the operation for advancing the
sequence by one time unit. Thus

Ef[k] = f[k + 1]
E2 f[k] = f[k + 2]
..
.
En f[k] = f[k + n]

For example

y[k + 1] − ay[k] = f[k + 1]

Ey[k] − ay[k] = Ef[k]
(E − a)y[k] = Ef[k]

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 10/60 I }

E operator
cont.

For the second-order difference equation

1 1
y[k + 2] + y[k + 1] + y[k] = f[k + 2]
4 16
( )
1 1
E2 + E + y[k] = E2 f[k]
4 16

A general nth-order difference equation (n = m)can be expressed as

( n )
E + an−1 En−1 + · · · + a1 E + a0 y[k] =
( )
bn En + bn−1 En−1 + · · · + b1 E + b0 f[k]
Q[E]y[k] = P[E]f[k]

where
Q[E] = En + an−1 En−1 + · · · + a1 E + a0
P[E] = bn En + bn−1 En−1 + · · · + b1 E + b0

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 11/60 I }

Response of Linear Discrete-Time Systems
System response to Internal Conditions: The Zero-Input Response

Similar to the continuous-time case,

Total response = zero-input response + zero-state response

The zero-input response y0 [k] is the solution of the system with f[k] = 0; that is,

Q[E]y0 [k] = 0

or

( n )
E + an−1 En−1 + · · · + a1 E + a0 y0 [k] = 0
y0 [k + n] + an−1 y0 [k + n − 1] + · · · + a1 y0 [k + 1] + a0 y0 [k] = 0

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 12/60 I }

Response of Linear Discrete-Time Systems
System response to Internal Conditions: The Zero-Input Response cont.

The equation states that a linear combination of y0 [k] and advanced y0 [k] is zero not for
some values of k but for all k. Such situation is possible if and only if y0 [k] and advanced
y0 [k] have the same form. This is true only for an exponential function γ k . Since

γ k+m = γ m γ k

Therefore, if y0 [k] = cγ k we have

Ey0 [k] = y0 [k + 1] = cγ k+1 = cγγ k

E2 y0 [k] = y0 [k + 2] = cγ k+2 = cγ 2 γ k
..
.
En y0 [k] = y0 [k + n] = cγ k+n = cγ n γ k

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 13/60 I }

Response of Linear Discrete-Time Systems
System response to Internal Conditions: The Zero-Input Response cont.

Substitution of these results to the system equation yields

( )
c γ n + an−1 γ n−1 + · · · + a1 γ + a0 γ k = 0

For a nontrivial solution of this equation

( )
γ n + an−1 γ n−1 + · · · + a1 γ + a0 = 0 or Q[γ] = 0

Q[γ] is an nth-order polynomial and can be expressed in the factorized form (assuming all
distinct roots):

(γ − γ1 )(γ − γ2 ) · · · (γ − γn ) = 0

Clearly, γ has n solutions γ1 , γ2 , · · · , γn and, the system has n solutions

c1 γ1k , c2 γ2k , . . . , cn γnk .

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 14/60 I }

Response of Linear Discrete-Time Systems
System response to Internal Conditions: The Zero-Input Response cont.

The zero-input response is

y0 [k] = c1 γ1k + c2 γ2k + · · · + cn γnk

where γ1 , γ2 , . . . , γn are the roots of the polynomial.

• Q[γ] is called the characteristic polynomial of the system.
• Q[γ] = 0 is the characteristic equation of the system.
• γ1 , γ2 , . . . , γn are called characteristic roots or characteristic values (also eignevalues)
of the system.
• The exponentials γik (i = 1, 2, . . . , n) are characteristic modes or natural modes of the
system.

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 15/60 I }

Response of Linear Discrete-Time Systems
System response to Internal Conditions: The Zero-Input Response cont.

Repeated Roots:
If two or more roots are repeated, the form of the characteristic modes is modified. Similar
to the continuous-time case, if a root γ repeats r times, the characteristic modes
corresponding to this root are γ k , kγ k , k2 γ k , . . ., kr−1 γ k .
If the characteristic equation of a system is

Q[γ] = (γ − γ1 )r (γ − γr+1 )(γ − γr+2 ) · · · (γ − γn )

the zero-input response of the system is

y0 [k] = (c1 + c2 k + c3 k2 + · · · + cr kr−1 )γ1k

k k
+ cr+1 γr+1 + cr+2 γr+2 + · · · + cn γnk

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 16/60 I }

Response of Linear Discrete-Time Systems
System response to Internal Conditions: The Zero-Input Response cont.

Complex Roots:
As in the case of continuous-time systems, the complex roots of a discrete-time system must
occur in pairs of conjugates so that the system equation coefficients are real. Like the case of
continuous-time systems, we can eliminate dealing with complex numbers by using the real
form of the solution.
• First express the complex conjugate roots γ and γ ∗ in polar form.

γ = |γ|ejβ and γ ∗ = |γ|e−jβ

• the zero-input response is given by

y0 [k] = C1 γ k + C2 (γ ∗ )k
= C1 |γ|k ejβk + C2 |γ|k e−jβk

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 17/60 I }

Response of Linear Discrete-Time Systems
System response to Internal Conditions: The Zero-Input Response cont.

For a real system, C1 and C2 must be conjugates so that y0 [k] is a real function of k. Let

C jθ C
C1 = e and C2 = e−jθ
2 2
C k [ j(βk+θ) ]
y0 [k] = |γ| e + e−j(βk+θ)
2
= C|γ|k cos(βk + θ)

where C and θ are arbitrary constants determined from the auxiliary conditions.

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 18/60 I }

Response of Linear Discrete-Time Systems
System response to Internal Conditions: The Zero-Input Response cont.

For an LTID system described by the difference equation

y[k + 2] − 0.6y[k + 1] − 0.16y[k] = 5f[k + 2]

Find the zero-input response y0 [k] of the system if the initial conditions are y[−1] = 0 and
y[−2] = 25
4
.

The system equation in E operator form is

(E2 − 0.6E − 0.16)y[k] = 5E2 f[k]

The characteristic equation is

γ 2 − 0.6γ − 0.16 = (γ + 0.2)(γ + 0.8) = 0

The zero-input response is

y0 [k] = C1 (−0.2)k + C2 (0.8)k

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 19/60 I }

Response of Linear Discrete-Time Systems
System response to Internal Conditions: The Zero-Input Response cont.
25
Substitute y0 [−1] = 0 and y0 [−2] = 4
we obtain

5
−5C1 + C2 = 0
4
25 25
25C1 + C2 =
16 4

1 4
and C1 = 5
and C2 = 5
. Therefore

1 4
y0 [k] = (−0.2)k + (0.8)k , k ≥ 0.
5 5

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 20/60 I }

Response of Linear Discrete-Time Systems
System response to Internal Conditions: The Zero-Input Response cont.

A system specified by the equation

(E2 + 6E + 9)y[k] = (2E2 + 6E)f[k]

determine y0 [k], the zero-input response, if the initial condition are y0 [−1] = − 31 and
y0 [−2] = − 92 .
The characteristic equation is

γ 2 + 6γ + 9 = (γ + 3)2 = 0

and we have a repeated characteristic root at γ = −3. Hence, the zero-input response is

y0 [k] = (C1 + C2 k)(−3)k .

From the initial conditions we have

C1 − C2 = 1
C1 − 2C2 = −2

and C1 = 4 , C2 = 3 . Finally, we have y0 [k] = (4 + 3k)(−3)k , k ≥ 0.

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 21/60 I }
Response of Linear Discrete-Time Systems
System response to Internal Conditions: The Zero-Input Response cont.

Find the zero-input response of an LTID system described by the equation

(E2 − 1.56E + 0.81)y[k] = (E + 3)f[k]

when the initial conditions are y0 [−1] = 2 and y0 [−2] = 1.

The characteristic equation is

(γ 2 − 1.56γ + 0.81) = (γ − 0.78 − j0.45)(γ − 0.78 + j0.45) = 0.

π
The characteristic roots are 0.78 ± j0.45; that is , 0.9e±j 6 . Thus, |γ| = 0.9 and β = π
6
, and
the zero-input response is given by

π
y0 [k] = C(0.9)k cos( k + θ).
6

Substituting the initial conditions y0 [−1] = 2 and y0 [−2] = 1, we obtain

( ) [ ] [√ ]
C π C π π C 3 1
cos − + θ = cos(− ) cos θ − sin(− ) sin θ = cos θ + sin θ = 2
0.9 6 0.9 6 6 0.9 2 2

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 22/60 I }

Response of Linear Discrete-Time Systems
System response to Internal Conditions: The Zero-Input Response cont.

and
( ) [ ] [ √ ]
C π C π π C 1 3
cos − + θ = cos(− ) cos θ − sin(− ) sin θ = cos θ + sin θ =1
(0.9)2 3 0.81 3 3 0.81 2 2

or
√
3 1
C cos θ + C sin θ = 2
1.8 1.8
√
1 3
C cos θ + C sin θ = 1.
1.62 1.62

We have C cos θ = 2.308 and C sin θ = −0.397. Then

−0.397
θ = tan−1 = −0.17 rad
2.308

Substituting θ = −0.17 radian in C cos θ = 2.308 yields C = 2.34 and

( )
π
y0 [k] = 2.34(0.9)k cos k − 0.17 , k ≥ 0
6

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 23/60 I }

The Unit Impulse Response h[k]
Consider an nth-order system specified by the equation
( n )
E + an−1 En−1 + · · · + a1 E + a0 y[k] =
( )
bn En + bn−1 En−1 + · · · + b1 E + b0 f[k]

or

Q[E]y[k] = P[E]f[k]

The unit impulse response h[k] is the solution of this equation for the input δ[k] with all the
initial conditions zero; that is

Q[E]h[k] = P[E]δ[k]

subject to initial conditions

h[−1] = h[−2] = · · · = h[−n] = 0

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 24/60 I }

The Unit Impulse Response h[k]
h[k] is the system response to the input δ[k], which is zero for k > 0. We know that when the
input is zero, only the characteristic modes can be sustained by the system. Therefore, h[k]
must be made up of characteristic modes for k > 0. At k = 0, it may have some nonzero
value, and h[k] can be expressed as

b0
h[k] = δ[k] + yn [k]u[k].
a0

The n unknown coefficients in yn [k] can be determined from a knowledge of n values of h[k].
It is a straightforward task to determine values of h[k] iteratively.

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 25/60 I }

The Unit Impulse Response h[k]
The Closed-Form Solution of h[k] Deviation

For a discrete-time system specified above, we have

h[k] = A0 δ[k] + yn [k]u[k]

Then

Q[E](A0 δ[k] + yn [k]u[k]) = P[E]δ[k]

because yn [k]u[k] is a sum of characteristic modes

Q[E](yn [k]u[k]) = 0, k ≥ 0

The above equation reduces to

A0 Q[E]δ[k] = P[E]δ[k], k ≥ 0

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 26/60 I }

The Unit Impulse Response h[k]
The Closed-Form Solution of h[k] Deviation cont.

or

( )
A0 En + an−1 En−1 + · · · + a1 E + a0 δ[k]
( )
= bn En + bn−1 En−1 + · · · + b1 E + b0 δ[k]
A0 (δ[k + n] + an−1 δ[k + n − 1] + · · · + a1 δ[k + 1] + a0 δ[k])
= bn δ[k + n] + bn−1 δ[k + n − 1] + · · · + b1 δ[k + 1] + b0 δ[k]

If we set k = 0 in the equation and recognize that δ[0] = 1 and δ[m] = 0 when m ̸= 0, all but
the last terms vanish on both sides, yielding

b0
A0 a0 = b0 and A0 =
a0

Note: for the special case a0 = 0 see the reference.

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 27/60 I }

The Unit Impulse Response h[k]
Example

Determine the unit impulse response h[k] for a system specified by the equation

y[k] − 0.6y[k − 1] − 0.16y[k − 2] = 5f[k]

This equation can be expressed in the advance operator form as

y[k + 2] − 0.6y[k + 1] − 0.16y[k] = 5f[k + 2]

or
( 2 )
E − 0.6E − 0.16 y[k] = 5E2 f[k]

The characteristic equation is

γ 2 − 0.6γ − 0.16 = (γ + 0.2)(γ − 0.8) = 0.

Therefore

yn [k] = C1 (−0.2)k + C2 (0.8)k

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 28/60 I }

The Unit Impulse Response h[k]
Example cont.

From the system we have a0 = −0.16 and b0 = 0. Therefore

0 [ ] [ ]
h[k] = δ[k] + C1 (−0.2)k + C2 (0.8)k u[k] = C1 (−0.2)k + C2 (0.8)k u[k]
−0.16

To determine C1 and C2 , we need to find two values of h[k] iteratively. To do this, we must
let the input f[k] = δ[k] and the output y[k] = h[k] in the system equation. The resulting
equation is

h[k] − 0.6h[k − 1] − 0.16h[k − 2] = 5δ[k]

subject to zero initial state; that is , h[−1] = h[−2] = 0.

Setting k = 0 in this equation yields

h[0] − 0.6(0) − 0.16(0) = 5(1) =⇒ h[0] = 5

Next, setting k = 1 and using h[0] = 5, we obtain

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 29/60 I }
The Unit Impulse Response h[k]
Example cont.

Then we have

h[0] = C1 (−0.2)0 + C2 (0.8)0 = C1 + C2 = 5

h[1] = C1 (−0.2)1 + C2 (0.8)1 = −0.2C1 + 0.8C2 = 3

and C1 = 1, C2 = 4. Therefore

[ ]
h[k] = (−0.2)k + 4(0.8)k u[k]

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 30/60 I }

System Response to External Input
The Zero-State Response

The zero-state response y[k] is the system response to an input f[k] when the system is in
zero state. Like in the continuous-time case an arbitrary input f[k] can be expressed as a sum
of impulse components.

f[k] f[−2]δ[k + 2]

k k
−2 −1 1 2 3 4 −2 −1 1 2 3 4

f[−1]δ[k + 1]
f[1]δ[k − 1]

k k
−2 −1 1 2 3 4 −2 −1 1 2 3 4

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 31/60 I }

System Response to External Input
The Zero-State Response cont.

The previous page shows how a signal f[k] can be expressed as a sum of impulse components.
The component of f[k] at k = m is f[m]δ[k − m], and f[k] is the sum of all these components
summed from m = −∞ to ∞. Therefore

f[k] = f[0]δ[k] + f[1]δ[k − 1] + f[2]δ[k − 2] + · · ·

+ f[−1]δ[k + 1] + f[−2]δ[k + 2] + · · ·
∞
∑
= f[m]δ[k − m]
m=−∞

If we knew the system response to impulse δ[k], the system response to any arbitrary input
could be obtained by summing the system response to various impulse components.

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 32/60 I }

System Response to External Input
The Zero-State Response cont.

If

δ[k] =⇒ h[k]

then

δ[k − m] =⇒ h[k − m]
f[m]δ[k − m] =⇒ f[m]h[k − m]
∞
∑ ∞
∑
f[m]δ[k − m] =⇒ f[m]h[k − m]
m=−∞ m=−∞
| {z } | {z }
f[k] y[k]

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 33/60 I }

System Response to External Input
The Zero-State Response cont.

We have the response y[k] to input f[k] as

∞
∑
y[k] = f[m]h[k − m].
m=−∞

This summation on the right-had side is known as the convolution sum of f[k] and h[k], and
is represented symbolically by f[k] ∗ h[k]

∞
∑
f[k] ∗ h[k] = f[m]h[k − m]
m=−∞

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 34/60 I }

Properties of the Convolution Sum
The Commutative Property

The Commutative Property

f1 [k] ∗ f2 [k] = f2 [k] ∗ f1 [k]

This can be proved as follow:

∞
∑
f1 [k] ∗ f2 [k] = f1 [m]f2 [k − m]
m=−∞
−∞
∑
=− f1 [w − k]f2 [w], w=k−m
w=∞
∞
∑
= f2 [w]f1 [w − k]
w=−∞

= f2 [k] ∗ f1 [k]

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 35/60 I }

Properties of the Convolution Sum
The Distributive Property

The Distributive Property

f1 [k] ∗ (f2 [k] + f3 [k]) = f1 [k] ∗ f2 [k] + f1 [k] ∗ f3 [k]

The proof is as follow:

∞
∑
f1 [k] ∗ (f2 [k] + f3 [k]) = f1 [m] (f2 [k − m] + f3 [k − m])
m=−∞
∞
∑ ∞
∑
= f1 [m]f2 [k − m] + f1 [m]f3 [k − m]
m=−∞ m=−∞

= f1 [k] ∗ f2 [k] + f1 [k] ∗ f3 [k]

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 36/60 I }

Properties of the Convolution Sum
The Associative Property

The Associative Property

f1 [k] ∗ (f2 [k] ∗ f3 [k]) = (f1 [k] ∗ f2 [k]) ∗ f3 [k]

The proof is as follow:

∞
∑
f1 [k] ∗ (f2 [k] ∗ f3 [k]) = f1 [m1 ] (f2 [k − m1 ] ∗ f3 [k − m1 ])
m1 =−∞
∞
∑ ∞
∑
= f1 [m1 ] f2 [m2 ]f3 [k − m1 − m2 ]
m1 =−∞ m2 =−∞
∞
∑ ∞
∑
= f1 [λ − m2 ]f2 [m2 ]f3 [k − λ]
m1 =−∞ m2 =−∞

,where λ = m1 + m2 .

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 37/60 I }

Properties of the Convolution Sum
The Associative Property cont.

Then we have

∞
∑ ∞
∑
f1 [k] ∗ (f2 [k] ∗ f3 [k]) = f1 [λ − m2 ]f2 [m2 ]f3 [k − λ]
m1 =−∞ m2 =−∞

= (f1 [k] ∗ f2 [k]) ∗ f3 [k]

The Convolution with an Impulse

∞
∑
f[k] ∗ δ[k] = f[m]δ[k − m]
m=−∞

Since δ[k − m] = 1, if k − m = 0 or m = k, then

f[k] ∗ δ[k] = f[k].

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 38/60 I }

Properties of the Convolution Sum
The shifting Property

The shifting Property

If

f1 [k] ∗ f2 [k] = c[k]

then

f1 [k] ∗ f2 [k − n] = f1 [k] ∗ f2 [k] ∗ δ[k − n]

= c[k] ∗ δ[k − n] = c[k − n]
f1 [k − n] ∗ f2 [k] = f1 [k] ∗ δ[k − n] ∗ f2 [k]
= f1 [k] ∗ f2 [k] ∗ δ[k − n]
= c[k] ∗ δ[k − n] = c[k − n]
f1 [k − n] ∗ f2 [k − l] = f1 [k] ∗ δ[k − n] ∗ f2 [k] ∗ δ[k − l]
= c[k] ∗ δ[k − n] ∗ δ[k − l] = c[k − n − l]

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 39/60 I }

Properties of the Convolution Sum
The shifting Property

The Width Property

If f1 [k] and f2 [k] have lengths of m and n elements respectively, then the length of c[k] is
m + n − 1 elements.

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 40/60 I }

Causality and Zero-State Response
• We assumed the system to be linear and time-invariant.
• In practice, almost all of the input signals are causal, and a majority of the system are
also causal.
• If the input f[k] is causal, then f[m] = 0 for m < 0.
• Similarly, if the system is causal, then h[x] = 0 for negative x, so that h[k − m] = 0
when m > k.
• Therefore, if f[k] and h[k] are both causal, the product f[m]h[k − m] = 0 for m < 0 and
for m > k, and it is nonzero only for the range 0 ≤ m ≤ k. Therefore, the convolution
sum is reduced to

∑
k
y[k] = f[k]h[k − m]
m=0

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 41/60 I }

Convolution Sum
Analytical Method Example

Determine c[k] = f[k] ∗ g[k] for

f[k] = (0.8)k u[k] and g[k] = (0.3)k u[k]

we have

∑
k
c[k] = f[m]g[k − m]
m=0

since both signals are causal.



 ∑ (0.8)m (0.3)k−m
k

k≥0
c[k] =

m=0
0 k<0
∑
k ( )m
0.8 (0.8)k+1 − (0.3)k+1
c[k] = (0.3)k u[k] = (0.3)k u[k]
m=0
0.3 (0.3)k (0.8 − 0.3)
[ ]
= 2 (0.8)k+1 − (0.3)k+1 u[k]

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 42/60 I }

Zero-State Response
Analytical Method Example

Find the zero-state response y[k] of an LTID system described by the equation

y[k + 2] − 0.6y[k + 1] − 0.16y[k] = 5f[k + 2]

[ ]
if the input f[k] = 4−k u[k] and h[k] = (−0.2)k + 4(0.8)k u[k].
We have

yi [k] = f[k] ∗ h[k]

[ ]
= (4)−k u[k] ∗ (−0.2)k u[k] + 4(0.8)k u[k]

= (4)−k u[k] ∗ (−0.2)k u[k] + (4)−k u[k] ∗ 4(0.8)k u[k]

= (0.25)k u[k] ∗ (−0.2)k u[k] + 4(0.25)k u[k] ∗ (0.8)k u[k]

Using Pair 4 from the convolution sum table:

[ ]
(0.25)k+1 − (−0.2)k+1 (0.25)k+1 − (0.8)k+1
y[k] = +4 u[k]
0.25 − (−0.2) 0.25 − 0.8

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 43/60 I }

Zero-State Response
Analytical Method Example cont.

( [ ] [ ])
y[k] = 2.22 (0.25)k+1 − (−0.2)k+1 − 7.27 (0.25)k+1 − (0.8)k+1 u[k]
[ ]
= −5.05(0.25)k+1 − 2.22(−0.2)k+1 + 7.27(0.8)k+1 u[k]

Recognizing that

γ k+1 = γ(γ)k

We can express y[k] as

[ ]
y[k] = −1.26(0.25)k + 0.444(−0.2)k + 5.81(0.8)k u[k]
[ ]
= −1.26(4)−k + 0.444(−0.2)k + 5.81(0.8)k u[k]

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 44/60 I }

Graphical Procedure for the Convolution Sum
The convolution sum of causal signals f[k] and g[k] is given by

∑
k
c[k] = f[k]g[k − m]
m=0

• Invert g[m] about the vertical axis (m = 0) to obtain g[−m].

• Time shift g[−m] by k units to obtain g[k − m]. For k > 0, the shift is to the right
(delay); for k < 0, the shift is to the left (advance).
• Next we multiply f[m] and g[k − m] and add all the products to obtain c[k]. The
procedure is repeated to each value of k over the range −∞ to ∞.

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 45/60 I }

Graphical Procedure for the Convolution Sum
Example

Find c[k] = f[k] ∗ g[k], where f[k] and g[k] are depicted in the Figures.

f[k] g[k]
1 1
(0.8)k (0.3)k

k k
0 1 2 3 4 0 1 2 3 4

g[−m]
f[m]
1 1
(0.8)m (0.3)−m

m m
0 1 2 3 4 −4 −3 −2 −1 0

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 46/60 I }

Graphical Procedure for the Convolution Sum
Example

1 f[m]
g[−m]

m
−4 −3 −2 −1 0 1 2 3 4

g[k − m]
1
f[m]

k m

The two functions f[m] and g[k − m] overlap over the interval 0 ≤ m ≤ k.

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 47/60 I }

Graphical Procedure for the Convolution Sum
Example

Therefore

∑
k
c[k] = f[m]g[k − m]
m=0

∑
k
= (0.8)m (0.3)k−m
m=0

∑k ( )
0.8 m
= (0.3)k
m=0
0.3
[ ]
= 2 (0.8)k+1 − (0.3)k+1 , k≥0

For k < 0, there is no overlap between f[m] and g[k − m], so that c[k] = 0 k < 0 and

[ ]
c[k] = 2 (0.8)k+1 − (0.3)k+1 u[k].

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 48/60 I }

Graphical Procedure for the Convolution Sum
Sliding Tape Method

Using the sliding tape method, convolve the two sequences f[k] and g[k].
• write the sequences f[k] and g[k] in the slots of two tapes
• leave the f tape stationary (to correspond to f[m]). The g[−m] tape is obtained by
time inverting the g[m]
• shift the inverted tape by k slots, multiply values on two tapes in adjacent slots, and
add all the products to find c[k].

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 49/60 I }

Graphical Procedure for the Convolution Sum
Sliding Tape Method cont.

For the case of k = 0,

c[0] = 0 × 1 = 0

For k = 1

c[1] = (0 × 1) + (1 × 1) = 1

Similarly,

c[2] = (0 × 1) + (1 × 1) + (2 × 1) = 3
c[3] = (0 × 1) + (1 × 1) + (2 × 1) + (3 × 1) = 6
c[4] = (0 × 1) + (1 × 1) + (2 × 1) + (3 × 1) + (4 × 1) = 10
c[5] = (0 × 1) + (1 × 1) + (2 × 1) + (3 × 1) + (4 × 1) + (5 × 1) = 15
c[6] = (0 × 1) + (1 × 1) + (2 × 1) + (3 × 1) + (4 × 1) + (5 × 1) = 15
.
.. Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems
Lecture 9: Time-Domain J 50/60 I }
Graphical Procedure for the Convolution Sum
Sliding Tape Method cont.
f[k]
g[k]
5 1

1 1 ...
k k
01 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 3 5
f[m]
0 1 2 3 4 5 ←− g[−m] 0 1 2 3 4 5 c[0] = 0
1 1 1 1 1 1 ... ... 1 1 1 1 1 1
f[m]
0 1 2 3 4 5 c[1] = 1
... 1 1 1 1 1 1

f[m]
0 1 2 3 4 5 c[2] = 3
... 1 1 1 1 1 1

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 51/60 I }

Graphical Procedure for the Convolution Sum
Sliding Tape Method cont.
f[m]
0 1 2 3 4 5 c[3] = 6
... 1 1 1 1 1 1
f[m]
0 1 2 3 4 5 c[4] = 10
... 1 1 1 1 1 1

f[m]
c[k]
0 1 2 3 4 5 c[5] = 15
... 1 1 1 1 1 1
15 f[m]
0 1 2 3 4 5 c[6] = 15
... 1 1 1 1 1 1
k
5

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 52/60 I }

Total Response
The total response of an LTID system can be expressed as a sum of the zero-input and
zero-state components:

∑
n
Total response y[k] = cj γjk + f[k] ∗ h[k]
j=1
| {z }
| {z } Zero-state component
Zero-input component

From the previous example, the system described by the equation

y[k + 2] − 0.6y[k + 1] − 0.16y[k] = 5f[k + 2]

with initial conditions y[−1] = 0, y[−2] = 25

4
and input f[k] = (4)−k u[k]. We have

y[k] = 0.2(−0.2)k + 0.8(0.8)k −1.26(4)−k + 0.444(−0.2)k + 5.81(0.8)k

| {z }| {z }
Zero-input component Zero-state component

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 53/60 I }

Classical solution of Linear Difference Equations
If yn [k] and yϕ [k] denote the natural and the forced response respectively, the the total
response is given by

Total response y[k] = yn [k] + yϕ [k]

| {z } | {z }
modes nonmodes

Because yn [k] + yϕ [k] is a solution of the system, we have

Q[E](yn [k] + yϕ [k]) = P[E]f[k]

yn [k] is made up of characteristic modes,

Q[E]yn [k] = 0

Substitution of this equation yields

Q[E]yϕ [k] = P[E]f[k]

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 54/60 I }

Classical solution of Linear Difference Equations
Forced Response

By definition, the forced response contains only nonmode terms and and the list of the inputs
and the corresponding forms of the forced function is show below:

Input f[k] Forced Response yϕ [k]

1. rk r ̸= γi (i = 1, 2, · · · , n) crk
2. rk r = γi ckrk
3. cos(βk + θ) c cos(βk + ϕ)
( m ) ( m )
∑ ∑
4. αi ki rk ci ki rk
i=0 i=0

Note: By definition yϕ [k] cannot have any characteristic mode terms.

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 55/60 I }

Classical solution of Linear Difference Equations
Forced Response example

Determine the total response y[k] of a system

(E2 − 5E + 6)y[k] = (E − 5)f[k]

if the input f[k] = (3k + 5)u[k] and the auxiliary conditions are y[0] = 4, y[1] = 13.
The characteristic equation is

γ 2 − 5γ + 6 = (γ − 2)(γ − 3) = 0

Therefore, the natural response is

yn [k] = B1 (2)k + B2 (3)k

To find the form of forced response yϕ [k], we use above Table, Pair 4 with r = 1, m = 1.
This yields

yϕ [k] = c1 k + c0

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 56/60 I }

Classical solution of Linear Difference Equations
Forced Response example cont.

Therefore

yϕ [k + 1] = c1 (k + 1) + c0 = c1 k + c1 + c0
yϕ [k + 2] = c1 (k + 2) + c0 = c1 k + 2c1 + c0

Also

f[k] = 3k + 5

and

f[k + 1] = 3(k + 1) + 5 = 3k + 8

Substitution of the above results yiels

c1 k + 2c1 + c0 − 5(c1 k + c1 + c0 ) + 6(c1 k + c0 ) = 3k + 8 − 5(3k + 5)

2c1 k − 3c1 + 2c0 = −12k − 17

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 57/60 I }

Classical solution of Linear Difference Equations
Forced Response example cont.

Comparison of similar terms on the two sides yields

2c1 = −12
−3c1 + 2c0 = −17

and c1 = −6, c2 = − 35
2
. Therefore

35
yϕ [k] = −6k −
2

The total response is

y[k] = yn [k] + yϕ [k]

35
= B1 (2)k + B2 (3)k − 6k − , k≥0
2

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 58/60 I }

Classical solution of Linear Difference Equations
Forced Response example cont.

To determine arbitrary constants B1 and B2 we set k = 0 and 1 and substitute the initial
conditions y[0] = 4, y[1] = 13 to obtain

35
B1 + B2 − =4
2
47
2B1 + 3B2 − = 13
2

and B1 = 28, B2 = − 13
2
.
Therefore

13
yn [k] = 28(2)k − (3)k
2

and

13 35
y[k] = 28(2)k − (3)k −6k −
2 2
| {z } | {z }
yn [k] yϕ [k]

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 59/60 I }

Reference

1. Lathi, B. P., Signal Processing & Linear Systems,

Berkeley-Cambridge Press, 1998.

Lecture 9: Time-Domain Analysis of Discrete-Time Systems J 60/60 I }