Question
How is a Smith chart normalized?
Answer Options
- A) Reassign the reactance axis with resistance values
- B) Reassign the resistance axis with reactance values
- C) Reassign the prime center’s impedance value
- D) Reassign the prime center to the reactance axis
Correct Answer: C
Explanation
The Smith chart plots normalized impedance (z), where the values plotted are relative to the system’s characteristic impedance (Z_0, typically 50Ω). Normalized impedance z is the actual impedance Z divided by the characteristic impedance Z_0: z = Z / Z_0. This allows the chart to be used universally regardless of the system impedance.
Therefore, a Smith chart is normalized by reassigning the prime center’s impedance value. The center point of the chart always represents the perfectly matched condition where the normalized impedance is 1 + j0. This corresponds to the actual system characteristic impedance Z_0 (e.g., 50Ω). All other resistance and reactance values on the chart are scaled relative to this central Z_0 point.
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