However, this new tool still requires an understanding and some expertise in mathematics, most notably of Fourier and Laplace transforms. The progress in personal computer software tools has reduced the need to manipulate the mathematics symbolically. This makes application of software driven digital filters a straightforward number crunching task in most cases. Yet it is still crucial for the designer to understand the principles at work. The designer should know the basic principles behind filters, FFT's and numerical processes.
Medical products require a broad range of signal processing requirements.
Generally speaking, medical analyzers present some of the most interesting and rigorous design challenges in the signal processing arena. Diagnostic devices are based upon instrumentation of one form or another. In the development of the majority of that type of instrumentation, the goal is to maximize signal to noise ratio. Interference from AC power, motors, and such, can dramatically reduce the ability of low cost equipment to achieve its best performance. Digital filtering can provide a low cost solution to reducing noise beyond what can be achieved with typical analog solutions.