Tech Report CS-95-37

The Fourier Transform - A Primer

Hagit Shatkay

November 1995

Abstract:

The Fourier transform is among the most widely used tools for transforming data sequences and functions from what is referred to as the {\it time domain} to the {\it frequency domain}. Applications of the transform range from designing filters for noise reduction in audio-signals (such as music or speech), to fast multiplication of polynomials.

This report is meant to serve as a brief introduction to the Fourier transform, for readers who are not familiar with frequency domain. It introduces the basic terminology and the main concepts of the area, as well as several application domains, providing common ground for further discussion and study.

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