Definition

Noun: 1. A device or circuit that restricts or sets a maximum level: Specifically, in electronics, a limiter is a nonlinear circuit designed to prevent a signal's amplitude from exceeding a predetermined value, effectively clipping off the peaks of a waveform.

Usage

The word "limiter" is used to describe a component that imposes a ceiling or restriction on a quantity, most commonly the amplitude of an electrical signal. * In audio engineering, a limiter prevents distortion by ensuring the signal does not exceed a maximum level. * The circuit designer added a limiter to protect the amplifier from voltage spikes.

Examples

• The audio engineer used a limiter on the master track to prevent clipping during the final mix.
• This safety feature acts as a limiter, capping the motor's maximum speed.
• The limiter in the receiver circuit introduced some amplitude distortion to the signal.

Advanced Usage

• Brick-wall limiter: A type of limiter with an extremely high ratio, effectively preventing any signal from exceeding the set threshold.
  • A brick-wall limiter is often used in mastering to achieve maximum loudness.
• To act as a limiter: Used figuratively to describe something that sets a restrictive boundary.
  • The new regulations will act as a limiter on industrial emissions.

Variants and Related Words

• Limit (verb/noun): To restrict or set a boundary; the boundary itself.
• Limitation (noun): The act of limiting or a restriction.
• Clipper (noun): In electronics, a circuit similar to a limiter that removes part of a waveform.

Synonyms

• Restrictor
• Clipper (in specific electronic contexts)
• Ceiling device

Related Phrases

• Peak limiter: A limiter that specifically controls transient peaks in a signal.
  • The peak limiter engaged to tame the loud drum hit.
• Level limiter: Emphasizes the function of controlling amplitude or volume level.
  • The broadcast uses a level limiter to comply with transmission standards.

Noun

1. (electronics) a nonlinear electronic circuit whose output is limited in amplitude; used to limit the instantaneous amplitude of a waveform (to clip off the peaks of a waveform)
   • a limiter introduces amplitude distortion