square wave

[′skwer ′wāv] (electricity) An oscillation the amplitude of which shows periodic discontinuities between two values, remaining constant between jumps.

square wave

A waveform that rises quickly to a particular amplitude, remains constant for a time period and drops fast at the end. In digital systems, square waves are the norm, because they represent a binary digit (0 or 1). Square waves can also be generated in musical synthesizers and have a raspy sound.

Square Waves

This is the output of a 1 kHz square wave on an oscilloscope. Only the tops and bottoms of the waves are displayed, because the rising and falling is faster than the scope is set for.

square wave

Cardiology An abnormal BP response to the Valsalva maneuver–VM, seen in left ventricular failure; BP ↑ at the onset of the VM, remains elevated until VM is released, after which the BP abruptly drops to baseline without 'overshooting' the baseline pressure, accompanied by little change in the pulse pressure or tachycardia.